Obtaining a firearms licence in Guyana is regulated by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA) under the Firearms Act Chapter 16:05. Whether you are a first-time applicant, applying for a joint licence, or looking to import a firearm, this guide covers the full process including eligibility, required documents, medical requirements, and where to apply.
In This Guide
Quick Actions
Official Government Links
- moha.gov.gy/applications — Download Application Form Download the Individual application form and view all firearm application categories.
- Medical Report Form (PDF) — Download & Print Required medical examination form. Take this to your doctor to complete before submitting your application.
- moha.gov.gy — Ministry of Home Affairs Website Official MOHA website for updates, legal acts, and contact information.
Steps to Apply
- Download and complete the Individual Application Form from the link above.
- Download the Medical Report Form and have your doctor fill it out.
- Gather all supporting documents (see Required Documents below).
- Write a covering letter explaining your reason for needing a firearm.
- Submit your completed application in person at MOHA, Lot 6 Brickdam, Georgetown.
Questions? Call 592-226-3454 or 592-226-1717
Who Can Apply
To be eligible for a firearms licence in Guyana, applicants must generally meet the following criteria:
- Age: Must be 18 years or older
- Citizenship/Residency: Must be a Guyanese citizen or legal resident
- Criminal Record: Must have no serious criminal convictions (a Police Clearance Certificate may be required)
- Mental Health: Must pass a medical examination including mental health assessment
- Justification: Must provide a valid reason for needing a firearm (e.g., personal protection, business security, sport shooting, farming)
- Character References: Must provide character references from reputable persons in the community
Important
Meeting eligibility requirements does not guarantee approval. The Ministry of Home Affairs reviews each application individually and may decline applications at its discretion. All firearms in Guyana are strictly regulated under the Firearms Act Chapter 16:05.
Additional Requirements for Non-Nationals
Foreign nationals may apply for a firearms licence but must meet these additional requirements:
Types of Firearms
Under the Firearms Act, you can apply for a licence for the following types of firearms:
Handgun
Rifle
Shotgun
Required Documents
Persons submitting a firearm licence application (first time) must complete the Individual application form with the following supporting documents and a covering letter:
Application Package
Tip
Always check the MOHA website for the most up-to-date list of required documents, as requirements may change.
Medical Examination Requirements
All firearms licence applicants must undergo a medical examination. The Ministry of Home Affairs requires completion of the official Medical Report for Firearms form.
Medical Report Details
Note
A medical report that is incomplete, unsigned, or from an unregistered practitioner will result in delays or rejection of your application. Ensure all sections of the form are fully completed.
Application Process Step by Step
Obtain the Application Form
Download the Individual application form from the MOHA Applications page or collect one in person at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Lot 6 Brickdam, Georgetown.
Complete the Medical Examination
Visit a registered medical practitioner and have the Firearms Medical Report form completed. This must include physical and mental health assessments.
Gather Supporting Documents
Collect all required documents including National ID, passport photos, Police Clearance Certificate, proof of address, and character references.
Write a Covering Letter
Prepare a covering letter addressed to the Permanent Secretary, MOHA, explaining your reason for needing a firearm and specifying the type of firearm you are requesting.
Submit Your Application
Submit your completed application package in person at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Lot 6 Brickdam, Georgetown. Ensure all forms are fully completed and all supporting documents are included.
Background Check & Review
MOHA will conduct a background investigation including police checks and may interview you or your references. This process can take several weeks to months.
Receive Decision
You will be notified of the Ministry's decision. If approved, you will be issued a firearms licence specifying the type and quantity of firearm(s) you are authorized to possess.
Joint Firearm Licence
Persons submitting a joint firearm licence application (first time) must each complete an Individual application form with all supporting documents and a covering letter. A joint licence allows two persons (typically spouses or business partners) to share use of a single firearm.
Joint Licence Requirements
- Each applicant must submit their own Individual application form
- Each applicant must have their own completed Medical Report
- Each applicant must provide their own supporting documents and references
- A joint covering letter explaining the shared use arrangement is required
- Both applicants must meet all eligibility criteria independently
Second Firearm Licence
If you already hold an approved firearms licence and wish to obtain a second firearm, you may apply for an additional licence. However, there is an important waiting period:
2-Year Waiting Period
A second firearm licence is only permitted 2 years after the first licence is approved. You cannot apply for a second firearm before this waiting period has elapsed. The application process for the second licence follows the same steps as the first.
- You must have held your first firearms licence for at least 2 years
- Your first licence must be in good standing (not suspended or revoked)
- A new application with updated documents is required
- A new medical examination may be required
- Additional justification for needing a second firearm must be provided
Importing Firearms
If you wish to import a firearm into Guyana, you must obtain the necessary permits before the firearm enters the country. Two separate authorizations are required:
Import Requirements
Warning
Importing a firearm without the proper licences and permits is a serious criminal offence under the Firearms Act Chapter 16:05. Ensure all permits are obtained and carried with you before attempting to bring any firearm into Guyana.
Fees
Fees for firearms licence applications are set by the Ministry of Home Affairs and may be updated periodically. The following are general fee categories:
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| New Firearms Licence Application | Contact MOHA for current fee |
| Firearms Licence Renewal | Contact MOHA for current fee |
| Medical Examination | Varies by medical practitioner |
| Police Clearance Certificate | See Police Clearance Guide |
| Import Permit (Ministry of Commerce) | Contact Ministry of Commerce |
Fee Enquiries
For the most current fee schedule, contact the Ministry of Home Affairs directly at +592 226-3454 or +592 226-1717, or visit their office at Lot 6 Brickdam, Georgetown.
Renewal Process
Firearms licences must be renewed periodically to remain valid. Failure to renew your licence on time may result in it being revoked and potential legal consequences for possessing a firearm without a valid licence.
- Apply early: Begin your renewal application well before your licence expires
- Updated documents: Submit a new application form with current supporting documents
- Medical report: A new medical examination may be required for renewal
- Good standing: Your licence must not have been suspended or involved in any violations
- Firearm inspection: Your firearm may need to be presented for inspection during renewal
- Submit to MOHA: Renewal applications are submitted at the same location as new applications
Do Not Let Your Licence Expire
Possessing a firearm with an expired licence is a criminal offence. If your licence has expired, contact MOHA immediately to begin the renewal process. Do not carry or use the firearm until your licence is renewed.
Legal Framework
All firearms in Guyana are regulated under the Firearms Act Chapter 16:05 of the Laws of Guyana. Key provisions include:
- Licensing requirement: No person may possess, use, or carry a firearm without a valid licence issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs
- Ammunition control: The Act also regulates the possession and purchase of ammunition
- Safe storage: Licence holders are responsible for the secure storage of their firearms
- Reporting obligations: Loss, theft, or damage of a firearm must be reported to the police immediately
- Penalties: Unlawful possession, use, or trafficking of firearms carries severe penalties including imprisonment
- Tint waivers: Vehicle tint waivers are handled separately through the MOHA Tint Waiver Portal
Firearms Act Chapter 16:05
The full text of the Firearms Act can be consulted at the Ministry of Legal Affairs or through the Laws of Guyana. For legal questions regarding firearms, consult a qualified attorney. See our Legal Resources Guide for finding legal assistance in Guyana.
Contact & Office Hours
Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA)
Tint Waivers
If you need a vehicle tint waiver (a separate MOHA service), apply through the online portal at tint.moha.gov.gy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for a firearms licence in Guyana?
Complete an Individual application form from the MOHA website, gather all supporting documents including a medical report and police clearance, write a covering letter, and submit everything to the Ministry of Home Affairs at Lot 6 Brickdam, Georgetown.
What types of firearms can I licence in Guyana?
Under the Firearms Act Chapter 16:05, you can apply for a licence for three types of firearms: handguns, rifles, and shotguns. Each requires its own application and approval from MOHA.
Can I apply for a second firearm licence?
Yes, but only after a minimum of 2 years from the date your first firearms licence was approved. The application process is the same as for a first licence, with updated documents required.
How do I import a firearm into Guyana?
You need two permits: a firearms licence from MOHA and an Import Permit from the Ministry of Commerce. Both must be obtained before the firearm enters the country. Importing without proper permits is a criminal offence.
What law governs firearms in Guyana?
The Firearms Act Chapter 16:05 of the Laws of Guyana governs all aspects of firearms licensing, possession, importation, and use. Violations carry severe penalties including imprisonment.
Is a medical examination required?
Yes. All applicants must complete the official Medical Report for Firearms form, signed by a registered medical practitioner, covering both physical and mental health.
How long does the application process take?
Processing times vary and can take several weeks to several months depending on background checks and review workload. Contact MOHA at +592 226-3454 for status updates on your application.
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Browse All Government GuidesLast updated: April 2, 2026. Firearms licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change. Always verify current requirements with the Ministry of Home Affairs before applying. For all government services, visit our Government Services hub.