Weapons and ammunition

You are only allowed to bring weapons and ammunition to and from abroad if you have been issued a licence by the Dutch government. Are you bringing in these weapons or explosives without a licence? We then seize these items.

Examples

Examples of weapons and ammunition are:

  • firearms
  • certain melee, thrusting and stabbing weapons
  • airsoft weapons
  • alarm weapons
  • tasers and similar objects which can render a person defenseless or can hurt them by means of an electric shock
  • tear gas and pepper spray and similar agents intended to target persons with poisonous, asphyxiating, disabling, tear-inducing or similar substances
  • explosives (objects intended to hit persons or property by fire or by explosion)

Examples of prohibited melee, thrusting and stabbing weapons

Below you will find examples of melee, thrusting and stabbing weapons for which you need a licence if you want to carry them:

  • stiletto’s
  • folding knives with more than 1 cutting edge
  • folding knives which are longer than 28 centimetres in unfolded position
  • brass buckles
  • blackjacks
  • nunchakus
  • throwing stars
  • arrows and arrow heads used to shoot with a bow and that have cutting edges
  • catapults

Airsoft weapons

Airsoft weapons are replica firearms used in airsoft sports. You are allowed to bring these in if you have an exemption. You are entitled to an exemption if you meet the following conditions:

  • You are a member of a recognised airsoft association.
  • You can show your membership card of this association.
  • You have packed the equipment in such a way that it is not ready for immediate use.

For more information, visit the website of the Nederlandse Airsoft Belangen Vereniging (Dutch Airsoft Association, only available in Dutch).

Authorisation for transport of weapons and ammunition

It is possible to get authorisation to transport weapons used for hunting, and shooting and airsoft sports and ammunition. For more information, go to Central Import and Export Office (CDIU).

More information on weapons and ammunition

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