19.9.2023 | 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.

1.8.2022 | New guidelines for the harmonization of practices related to firearms permits took effect at the National Police Board of Finland at the start of August. The aim is to ensure uniform practices in matters related to firearms permits.

14.2.2024 | As of 1 March 2024, private persons can submit firearms permit applications and notifications electronically. A new electronic service for firearms dealers to report changes related to business licences will also open.

1.3.2024 | From the beginning of March, private persons can submit firearms permit applications and notifications electronically. The police are able to provide citizens with more e-services following an amendment to the Firearms Act.

11.7.2019 | Supply agreement for police firearms data management system terminated - new firearms data management system delayed

7.7.2023 | Firearms that are unfit for use must be reported to the police – check your cabinets during the summer and submit a notice at the end of September

6.6.2024 | The Firearms Act also requires the registration, i.e. reporting to the police, of firearms that have been rendered permanently unfit for use or deactivated. The deadline for notification is 15 July 2024. The registration obligation is based on improving weapon safety. Notification can be submitted electronically or by visiting a police station. It is advisable to report the firearm in good time, as an undeclared firearm may result in a fine.

2.2.2024 | At approximately 8 PM on Friday night the police received an assignment in Tapiola in Espoo from the emergency response centre.

17.10.2024 | The National Police Board of Finland has published an analysis report, which aims to support the work of the Government Programme and provide situational information on the firearms licensing process and firearm-related offences and disturbances.

9.7.2024 | Under the Firearms Act (1/1998), all firearms rendered permanently unfit for use by deactivation must be reported to the police by 15 July 2024. The notification obligation applies to private individuals, corporations, companies, foundations and estates of deceased persons.

7.7.2023 | New firearms-related services to be added to the police’s online services in September

23.10.2023 | Active notification of recreational activity and deactivated firearms

17.12.2024 | A review will be launched into the development project of the firearms information system of the Finnish police. The deadline for the review is at the end of June 2025.

27.3.2024 | Brisk start to electronic applications for firearms permits

29.4.2024 | Apply for a firearms permit in well before the summer and autumn hunting season

18.6.2024 | Just a month left to register firearms rendered permanently unfit for use

22.5.2025 | Ensure the start of the autumn hunting season and apply for a firearms permit now, before the summer. You can initiate your application for a firearms permit through the police e-services. However, remember to attach to your electronic application a copy of your hunting card and the game management fee paid.

23.9.2025 | The police in Finland use a firearm on a very few occasions by international comparison. In his blog post, the National Police Commissioner of Finland provides information on the use of firearms by the police and related phenomena based on statistics, and on changes in the operating environment.

20.1.2026 | An amendment made to weapons offences laid down by the Criminal Code entered into force at the turn of the year. The amendment means that, for example, carrying an unauthorised firearm in a public place can meet the statutory definition of an aggravated firearms offence. The police will implement the amendment effectively through enforcement and investigation.

13.8.2025 | Firearms inspection at Kouvola police station to close earlier than normal on Wednesday next week