Import a firearm, get a temporary firearm permit or transfer a gun
Firearms Licensing Board · sources read 3 Oct 2026
You need an import or export permit before moving any firearm into or out of Kenya. Visitors can apply for a temporary permit of up to 3 months on the FLB eCitizen portal. If you sell or give a gun to someone, they must show a firearm certificate, and you must notify the licensing officer by registered post within 48 hours.
- Fee
- We couldn't confirm a fee from the official page. Check it there before you pay.
- Where
- Firearms Licensing Board online on eCitizen (firearms.ecitizen.go.ke), or at the Board's office on Migwani Road, Nairobi
Steps
- Before bringing a gun or ammunition into Kenya (or taking it out), get an import or export permit.
- To hold a gun for a short stay without a firearm certificate, apply for a temporary permit on firearms.ecitizen.go.ke and pay by mobile money.
- Before you sell or give a gun to someone, ask to see their firearm certificate allowing them to get it (unless they are a registered dealer).
- Within 48 hours of the sale, gift or loan, send a notice of the transaction to the licensing officer by registered post.
Watch out
- Arrived with a personal gun but no import permit? Leave it with customs until you get the permit.
- Importing or exporting a gun without a permit can mean 7 to 15 years in jail.
- A temporary permit can't be issued for, or last, more than 3 months.
Who can apply
- A temporary permit is only given if you would qualify for a full firearm certificate for that gun.
Official sources (2)
- Firearms Act (Cap. 114) new.kenyalaw.org · read 3 Oct 2026
- Firearms Licensing Board - eCitizen firearms.ecitizen.go.ke · read 3 Oct 2026