Weapons For Travel: What's Allowed Abroad?

Hundreds of US citizens are arrested in other countries each year for carrying firearms or ammunition that they could legally possess in the United States. Most arrests happen on the Canadian and Mexican borders, but it's important to remember that local laws apply everywhere and penalties can be severe. When it comes to travelling with weapons, it's essential to do your research.

In the US, the Department of State Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) and the Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) are responsible for regulating the export of firearms and ammunition. The DDTC deals with items considered Defence Articles, while the BIS covers those categorised as Dual-Use.

If you're planning to travel with a firearm, you'll need to comply with the Arms Export Control Act (AECA), International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Control Reform Act (ECRA), Export Administration Regulations (EAR), and customs laws and regulations. This includes declaring your firearm and/or ammunition to the relevant authorities and ensuring they are stored securely in checked baggage.

It's also important to note that the laws and regulations regarding weapons vary from country to country, so be sure to check the requirements of your specific destination before travelling.

Laws and regulations for weapons allowed for overseas travel

When travelling with weapons, it is important to be aware of the laws and regulations of the country you are visiting, as well as the requirements of the specific airline you are flying with. Hundreds of US citizens are arrested in other countries each year for carrying firearms or ammunition that they could legally possess in the US. These arrests most often occur at the Canadian and Mexican borders, but it is important to be aware of the laws of any country you are visiting to avoid severe penalties, including steep fines, confiscation of weapons and vehicles, imprisonment, and/or lifetime bans from the country.

In the US, the Department of State Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) and the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) are responsible for regulating the export of firearms and ammunition. The DDTC regulates firearms and ammunition that are considered Defence Articles, which are governed by the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Items under the regulatory control of the DDTC are listed on the United States Munitions List (USML). The BIS, on the other hand, regulates firearms and ammunition that are considered Dual-Use Items, which are governed by the Export Control Reform Act (ECRA) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Items under the regulatory control of the BIS are listed on the Commerce Control List (CCL).

When travelling internationally with firearms and/or ammunition, it is important to declare them to the relevant authorities. For US citizens, this includes declaring the items to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and obtaining an International Travel Number (ITN) by filling out the Electronic Export Information (EEI) online and submitting it to AESDirect. It is also important to review the rules and regulations of the relevant authorities, such as the Department of Homeland Security and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and to comply with local, state, and international laws concerning the possession of firearms.

When travelling by air, most airlines require that firearms and ammunition be transported in checked baggage only, and that they be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided container. Rifle cases typically require locks on each end, and ammunition must be packaged separately in the original packaging or in packaging specifically designed for small amounts of ammunition, with a maximum weight of 11 pounds (5 kg) per container. It is also important to declare firearms and ammunition to the airline when checking your baggage and to review any specific requirements or limitations they may have.

Firearms and ammunition

Export Regulations:

The export of firearms and ammunition from the US is regulated by the Department of State Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) and the Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). The DDTC governs items listed on the US Munitions List (USML), which includes machine guns, silencers, armour-piercing ammunition, and firearms and ammunition of greater than .50 calibre. The BIS, on the other hand, regulates items on the Commerce Control List (CCL), which typically includes commonly owned firearms, ammunition, firearm parts, and accessories.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Requirements:

When travelling with firearms and ammunition, it is important to comply with the TSA regulations. Firearms must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided container and transported as checked baggage only. They should be declared to the airline during check-in, and each firearm must be declared every time. It is prohibited to bring firearms, firearm parts, ammunition, or loaded firearm magazines and ammunition clips in carry-on baggage. Small arms ammunition of up to .75 calibre and shotgun shells must be packaged in a fibre, wood, plastic, or metal box and declared to the airline. The quantity limits for ammunition may vary, so it is recommended to check with the airline.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP):

When travelling internationally with firearms and ammunition, it is necessary to declare them to the CBP. Form 4457, "Certificate of Registration for Personal Effects Taken Abroad," can be used to register firearms and ammunition for duty-free re-entry upon returning to the US. However, this form cannot be the sole means of declaration for the export of firearms or ammunition. An Internal Transaction Number (ITN) is also required, which can be obtained by submitting the Electronic Export Information (EEI) online through the Automated Export System.

Additional Considerations:

• It is important to thoroughly check vehicles, luggage, and clothing for firearms or ammunition, especially when crossing borders.
• Familiarise yourself with the laws of the destination country regarding firearms and ammunition. Contact the foreign embassy or consulate for more information.
• Enrolling in safety programs, such as the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, can provide important safety information and assistance in case of emergencies abroad.
• Always use a different set of luggage for international travel to avoid any potential issues with firearms or ammunition.

Packing and transporting weapons

Packing:

• Use appropriate luggage: Always use a different set of luggage for international travel when carrying firearms or ammunition. Choose a hard-sided, lockable container specifically designed for firearm transport. It should completely secure the firearm and be inaccessible during travel.
• Unload firearms: Ensure that all firearms are unloaded before packing. This includes removing any live rounds, magazines, clips, bolts, and firing pins.
• Separate ammunition: Ammunition must be separated from firearms and securely boxed or included within a locked hard-sided case. Small arms ammunition should be packaged in fibre, wood, plastic, or metal boxes designed for carrying ammo.
• Declare and lock: Declare each firearm and ammunition to the airline during check-in. Keep them locked in your checked baggage, and only you should retain the key or combination unless requested by TSA personnel.
• Check local laws: Familiarise yourself with the laws of your destination country and any countries you transit through. Some countries, like the UK, require specific permits for transporting firearms.

Transporting:

• Notify the airline: Notify your airline at least 72 hours before your travel date that you will be travelling with firearms and ammunition. Ask about any limitations or fees that may apply.
• Present paperwork: Obtain and carry the necessary paperwork, such as the Internal Transaction Number (ITN) and Customs Form 4457. These documents facilitate the export and duty-free re-entry of your firearms.
• Comply with TSA regulations: Comply with all TSA guidelines and regulations for transporting firearms and ammunition. This includes restrictions on carry-on and checked baggage.
• Do not sell or trade: Under no circumstances should you sell or trade your weapons while travelling internationally. This is illegal and can lead to severe penalties.
• Enroll in traveller programs: Consider enrolling in traveller programs like the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive safety information and assistance from the US Embassy in case of emergencies.

Prohibited weapons

When travelling with weapons, it's important to know what is prohibited, as the penalties for violating another country's gun laws can be severe. Here are some prohibited items and important considerations when travelling with weapons:

• Machine Guns: Machine guns are prohibited for international travel and are listed on the U.S. Munitions List (USML), subject to the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
• Silencers: Silencers are also prohibited and fall under the same regulations as machine guns.
• Armor-Piercing Ammunition: This type of ammunition is banned from international travel and is governed by the AECA and ITAR.
• Incendiary Ammunition: Like armor-piercing ammunition, incendiary ammunition is prohibited and falls under the same regulations.
• Firearms and Ammunition over .50 Caliber: Most firearms and ammunition of this calibre are prohibited and listed on the USML. However, some sporting firearms and ammunition over .50 calibre may be allowed under the Commerce Control List (CCL) and subject to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR).
• Firearm Parts in Carry-On Baggage: Firearm parts, including magazines, clips, bolts, and firing pins, are not allowed in carry-on baggage but can be transported in checked baggage.
• Replica Firearms in Carry-On Baggage: Replica firearms, including toys, are prohibited in carry-on baggage but can be transported in checked baggage.
• Ammunition in Carry-On Baggage: Ammunition is banned from carry-on baggage but can be transported in checked baggage, following specific packaging and declaration guidelines.
• Firearm Magazines and Ammunition Clips: These items, whether loaded or empty, must be securely boxed or included within a hard-sided case containing an unloaded firearm. They cannot be used for packing ammunition unless they completely enclose it.
• Ammunition in Excess: Ammunition in excess of 11 lbs. per passenger or containing potential projectiles is prohibited.

Other Important Considerations

• Research: Familiarize yourself with the laws of the country you're visiting, including any required permits or licences. Contact the foreign embassy for clarification.
• Vehicle Checks: If travelling by car, thoroughly check your vehicle for any firearms or ammunition. A stray bullet or forgotten handgun can lead to serious problems when crossing borders.
• Border Crossings: Know the nearest border crossing approaches to avoid accidentally crossing into another country with different gun laws.
• Luggage and Clothing: Use separate luggage for international travel to avoid any firearms or ammunition residue that could be considered contraband at your destination. Check clothing as well.
• Declaration: Always declare your firearms and ammunition to the relevant authorities, including the airline and customs officials.
• Storage and Locks: Firearms must be unloaded and locked in hard-sided containers, with only the passenger retaining the key or combination unless requested by TSA personnel.
• Local Laws: Comply with local, state, and international laws regarding firearm possession, as these vary widely.

Penalties for violating gun laws

The penalties for violating gun laws overseas can be severe and may result in a range of consequences. Hundreds of US citizens are arrested each year in other countries for carrying firearms or ammunition that they could legally possess in the United States. These arrests predominantly occur at the Canadian and Mexican borders, where individuals attempt to cross with firearms kept in their vehicles.

To avoid legal complications when traveling abroad with firearms or ammunition, it is crucial to thoroughly check your vehicle, luggage, and clothing for any firearms or ammunition. Familiarize yourself with the nearest border crossing approaches, as mistakenly crossing into a country with a firearm can have severe consequences. Research the laws of your destination country and contact their embassy in your country for clarification. Additionally, review the relevant export and transportation regulations, such as those provided by the Department of Homeland Security and the Transportation Security Administration.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a smooth travel experience and avoid violating the gun laws of the country you are visiting. Remember, ignorance of the law is typically not a valid excuse, and penalties can be stringent.

Frequently asked questions