Namibia_Firearm_License_Guide

How to Apply for a Firearm License in Namibia (Full Step-by-Step Guide) (As per the Arms and Ammunition Act No. 7 of 1996)

📌 OVERVIEW

In Namibia, you cannot legally own or carry a firearm without an approved license issued by the Namibian Police Force (NAMPOL). The process may seem overwhelming at first, but if you follow this guide carefully and prepare all the right documents, you can successfully apply and receive a license.

This process applies to:

First-time firearm owners
People who want to inherit, transfer, or replace a firearm
Farmers, business owners, hunters, and private individuals

Let’s go through the process step by step.

🧾 STEP 1: UNDERSTAND WHAT A FIREARM LICENSE IS

A firearm license is a legal document issued by NAMPOL that allows you to own, store, and use a specific firearm for a specific purpose. Each license is tied to:

A single person (the owner)
A single firearm (make, model, serial number)
A single reason (e.g. self-defense, hunting, sport shooting)

You must apply for a separate license for each firearm you want to own.

📁 STEP 2: GATHER ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

To apply for a firearm license, you need to submit several official documents. Make sure everything is complete before going to the police station, as missing paperwork will delay your application or cause rejection.

📄 Here’s what you need:

✔️ Firearm License Application Form
- Get this form from your local police station or regional NAMPOL office (Firearms Section).
- Fill it in using clear, neat handwriting in black ink.
- Do not skip any sections. If a section does not apply to you, write “N/A”.
✔️ Sworn Declaration / Affidavit
- This is a signed and stamped statement that explains why you need a firearm.
- Write in simple language and be honest. Common motivations include:
  - “I need a firearm for personal protection because I live on an isolated farm.”
  - “I require a rifle for game hunting and protection against predators.”
- Go to a police station, lawyer, or magistrate’s office to swear this statement under oath.
✔️ Certified Copy of Your Namibian ID
- Make a copy of your green Namibian ID and get it certified at the police station.
- The copy must be signed and stamped by an officer or Commissioner of Oaths.
✔️ Two Passport-Sized Colour Photos
- Photos must be recent (taken within the last 3 months).
- These will be attached to your application file.
✔️ Proof of Residential Address
- You need to prove where you live. Acceptable documents include:
  - A utility bill (water/electricity) in your name
  - A municipal letter
  - If you live with someone else, provide:
    - Their utility bill
    - A signed letter confirming you stay at that address
    - A copy of their ID
✔️ Police Clearance Certificate
- This confirms you do not have a criminal record that disqualifies you.
- Request this at the Criminal Records department (usually at large police stations).
- It may take a few days to be ready.
✔️ Competency Certificate (optional but highly recommended)
- This is proof that you have completed a firearm safety and handling course.
- Courses are offered by certified private firearm instructors or security training centres.
- While not always required by law, it strengthens your application and helps prove responsibility.
✔️ Firearm Cancellation Form (if replacing, inheriting, or transferring a firearm)
- This form must be completed if you are:
  - Replacing an old or damaged firearm
  - Inheriting a firearm from a deceased relative
  - Taking ownership of a firearm from someone else
✔️ Supporting Documents (depending on your motivation)
- For farmers: title deed, lease, or proof of farm ownership
- For business owners: business registration certificate or CC documents
- For hunters: hunting permit, proof of association with a hunting club, or game ranch letter

📌 Make sure to make copies of everything for your own records.

✍️ STEP 3: FILL IN THE FIREARM APPLICATION FORM

This is a legal document — make sure you complete it carefully.

What’s included:

Full name, ID number, and address
Phone numbers and occupation
Type of firearm (pistol, rifle, shotgun)
Firearm details (make, model, calibre, serial number)
Reason for application (self-defense, hunting, etc.)
Safe storage information (location of your gun safe)
Whether you have owned a firearm before

📌 Tip: Use block letters and write clearly. Double-check spelling and serial numbers.

🚓 STEP 4: SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION TO THE POLICE

Once your paperwork is ready:

Visit the nearest police station that has a Firearms Office.
Ask for the Firearms Licensing Officer.
Hand over your application file. They will:
- Check all documents
- Record your information
- Take your fingerprints
- Possibly ask a few basic questions about your motivation

You will receive a reference number for follow-up purposes.

🧰 STEP 5: HOME INSPECTION & BACKGROUND CHECK

NAMPOL will now:

Run a background check
- They’ll check if you’ve been arrested or charged with serious crimes.
Schedule a home visit
- An officer will visit your house to inspect your firearm safe.
- Your safe must meet the following requirements:
  - Be SABS-approved (or made from thick reinforced metal)
  - Bolted to the wall or floor
  - Be locked at all times
  - Hidden from public view and away from children

📌 Tip: Install your safe before submitting the application to avoid delays.

⏳ STEP 6: WAIT FOR APPROVAL

Once your file is sent to the National Firearms Licensing Board, it goes into review.

Normal waiting time is 6 to 12 weeks, but delays can happen.
If there’s a backlog or your file needs more investigation, it could take longer.
You may be called for further clarification or to submit missing documents.

📌 Be patient. Keep your receipt or reference number in case you want to follow up.

✅ STEP 7: APPROVAL, PAYMENT & COLLECTION

Once your application is approved:

You will receive a call or SMS from NAMPOL.
Go to the police station to collect your firearm license certificate.
Pay the license fee (varies, but typically around N$250–N$500).
Take the license to the dealer or private seller to receive the firearm.

📌 Make sure the firearm handed to you matches the serial number on the license.

📌 STEP 8: RESPONSIBILITIES AFTER RECEIVING YOUR FIREARM

Once licensed, you are now a legally responsible gun owner. You must:

Store your firearm safely at all times in the approved safe
Never lend your firearm to anyone else — it’s illegal
Do not carry the firearm in public unless it’s concealed and permitted
Renew your license before it expires (licenses are usually valid for 5 years)
If you sell or give away the firearm:
- Complete the Firearm Cancellation Form
- Report the sale or transfer to NAMPOL immediately
Report theft or loss of your firearm within 24 hours

Failure to follow the law can result in criminal charges, fines, or loss of license.

📞 USEFUL CONTACT INFORMATION

Namibian Police Firearm Division – Head Office
📍 Windhoek
📞 Phone: +264 61 209 4111
🌐 Website: www.nampol.gov.na
📧 You can also email or visit your nearest police station’s Firearms Section

✅ FINAL CHECKLIST BEFORE SUBMISSION

✅ Required Item	Ready?
Application Form (Filled in)	✅
Sworn Declaration	✅
Certified ID Copy	✅
Passport Photos (2)	✅
Proof of Residence	✅
Police Clearance Certificate	✅
Firearm Competency Certificate	✅
Firearm Cancellation Form (if applicable)	✅
Supporting Documents (Land, Business, etc)	✅