The first firearms-related online services provided by the police launched on 19 September. From now on, notification of the continuation of a recreational activity involving a firearm can now be done through the police’s online services. Similarly, submitting a notice of a firearm rendered permanently unfit for use or deactivated as required by law can now also be done through the police’s online services.
Demonstrating the continuation of a recreational activity is now much easier
The holder of a firearms permit that is valid indefinitely is obliged to report the continuation of their recreational activity. Persons with a permit for a handgun, a specially dangerous firearm or a long firearm, the mode of operation of which is semi-automatic, have an obligation to report. Information about the continuation of a recreational activity can now be submitted to the police without visiting a police department. In most cases, notification through online services is enough. Where necessary, the police will invite the holder of a firearms permit for a separate visit if more information is needed.
Firearms rendered unfit for use must be notified to the police
All firearms that have been permanently rendered unfit for use or deactivated must be notified to the police by 15 July 2024. After this date, being in possession of any such firearm not notified will be a punishable offence.
Notification of such firearms can be made through the police’s online services from 19 September 2023 onwards.
The form to notify a firearm that has been permanently rendered unfit for use or deactivated provides instructions for entering the firearm identification information. This makes it quicker and easier to submit the notice and a visit to a police station is not usually needed. Where necessary, the police will invite the holder to present the firearm if the information provided online is insufficient for registration.
More online services related to firearm and various other permits will be launched in March 2024. The police’s online services can be accessed through the poliisi.fi website and at poliisi.fi/asiointi.
