Bulletin: A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Firearms in Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its stringent yet relatively accessible firearm regulations. This guide is designed to provide you with a clear understanding of the process and requirements to purchase a firearm if you are planning to move to or visit Switzerland.

Requirements and Processes

When it comes to buying a firearm in Switzerland, it is not entirely necessary to hold Swiss citizenship or a permanent residence permit. However, it is crucial to demonstrate that your country of origin allows you to possess a firearm. Here are the detailed steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Filing the Application

The first step involves submitting a formal application to the police department of the canton where you reside or intend to purchase the firearm. You must specify the type of firearm you wish to acquire, including its serial number. This form is vital and must be filled out accurately and completely.

Step 2: Providing Documentation

Accompany your application with necessary documents. These include:

A copy of your passport, ID card, or residence permit. A copy of your criminal record.

It's important to note that the police do not require your criminal record to be completely clean, as long as it is free of violent offenses. A former police officer explained that this regulation applies to violent-related offenses, not all crimes.

Step 3: Additional Documentation for Non-Residents

If you do not have a permanent residence in Switzerland, you must also provide a document from your country of residence that explicitly allows you to purchase a firearm. This can be a passport or other legal document reflecting your right to possess a firearm in your home country.

Step 4: Decision and Approval

Once your application and documentation are received, the police will review them. The approval process is generally swift, unless there is a history of violent offenses. In such cases, the process might be expanded to ensure thorough review.

It's essential to understand that this approval process must be repeated for each firearm you wish to acquire. Additionally, any essential components of a firearm, such as a new barrel, also require a new application.

Restrictions and Exceptions

Switzerland imposes certain restrictions based on citizenship or country of origin. For example, individuals from certain regions, such as Ex-Yougoslavia, are prohibited from purchasing firearms due to historical concerns. These measures were put in place in the 1990s to prevent the flow of weapons to ongoing conflicts.

While you are generally allowed to possess a firearm, carrying one in public is strictly regulated. A firearm-carry permit is highly difficult to obtain and can only be granted if you have a job that requires it or if you have specific security threats. Automatic weapons are not available for purchase in Switzerland and are only accessible to active members of the military who convert them to semi-automatic post-military service.

Secure Storage and Transportation

Once you are approved to purchase a firearm, you are also expected to store it securely. This does not mean you can use it in the event of an intrusion; it specifically refers to keeping it in a secure condition, such as a gun safe or lockable container.

Transporting a firearm to and from a shooting range in Switzerland requires strict adherence to regulations. Ammunition must not be in the magazine while in transit. This situation often leads to unique cultural practices, like Swiss cyclists transporting rifles with no ammunition in the magazine, reflecting the need to get to the range without violating the law.

Switzerland's firearm laws aim to balance freedom and safety. While the process can be rigorous, it ensures that firearms are in the hands of responsible individuals who understand and adhere to the strict regulations in place.