Firearm ownership and gun-related activities in Turkey are governed by a strict legal framework designed to ensure public safety and control weapon usage. The primary legislation is the Law No. 6136 on Firearms and Knives and Other Tools (Ateşli Silahlar ve Bıçaklar Hakkında Kanun). This law, alongside various Ministry of Interior regulations, outlines who can own, carry, or transfer firearms in Turkey — and under what conditions.
Whether you are a Turkish citizen, a foreign resident, a collector, or a business requiring armed security, understanding your legal obligations is critical. Our Turkish Law Firm provides advisory services for all aspects of firearm licensing, compliance, and legal defense. Our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers assist clients in both civil and criminal firearm-related legal matters across Turkey.
Legal Framework for Gun Control in Turkey
The regulation of firearms in Turkey is primarily based on the following legal instruments:
- Law No. 6136 – Main legislation regulating possession and usage of firearms and edged weapons
- Firearms Regulation (Yönetmelik) – Implementing procedures and administrative rules
- Turkish Criminal Code (TCK) – Criminal sanctions for illegal possession, use, or trafficking
- Interior Ministry Circulars – Annual updates and licensing directives
Gun ownership in Turkey is not a right — it is a heavily regulated privilege subject to strict background checks, psychological evaluations, and criminal history investigations.
Who Can Legally Own a Gun in Turkey?
Not everyone can own a firearm in Turkey. The law distinguishes between two categories:
- License to Possess (Bulundurma Ruhsatı): For keeping a weapon at a fixed location (home, office, etc.)
- License to Carry (Taşıma Ruhsatı): For individuals with high risk status or specific professions (e.g., judges, prosecutors, high-profile business owners)
General eligibility criteria include:
- Being over 21 years of age
- No criminal record (especially involving violence or drugs)
- Clear psychological and physical health assessment
- Providing justifiable reason for possession or carrying
How to Apply for a Firearm License in Turkey
Firearm license applications must be submitted to the local Police Department (Emniyet Müdürlüğü) or Gendarmerie Command depending on residence. The procedure includes:
- Filling the official license application form
- Submitting a clean criminal record certificate
- Providing health reports from state hospital (including psychiatry)
- Documenting tax payment for the license fee
- Providing property ownership proof (for possession licenses)
Our best lawyer firm in Turkey supports clients during the application, appeal, or renewal stages. We ensure full compliance with documentation, deadlines, and legal formalities.
Types of Firearms Permitted in Turkey
The law categorizes firearms into different groups, with strict limitations on each:
- Handguns: Allowed under license; semi-automatic only
- Hunting rifles: Permitted under separate hunting license (Avcılık Belgesi)
- Sporting weapons: Limited to registered shooting clubs and athletes
- Automatic weapons: Strictly prohibited for civilian use
Foreigners may own certain categories of sporting firearms under limited conditions. Legal guidance is recommended to avoid customs violations or unintended offenses.
Criminal Offenses Related to Firearms in Turkey
Violations of gun control laws carry serious criminal penalties under both Law No. 6136 and the Turkish Criminal Code (TCK). Common offenses include:
- Unauthorized possession or carrying: Up to 3 years imprisonment
- Smuggling or trafficking of firearms: 5 to 12 years imprisonment under TCK Article 6136
- Use of a firearm during a crime: Increases sentence by 1/3 to 1/2 depending on circumstances
- Possession of unregistered ammunition: Treated as a firearms offense
Our Turkish Law Firm provides criminal defense in firearm-related prosecutions, appeals, and confiscation cases throughout Turkey.
Foreign Nationals and Gun Laws in Turkey
Foreigners residing in Turkey are subject to the same firearms laws. However, special restrictions apply:
- Most licenses are not issued to non-citizens, except in rare business or diplomatic contexts
- Foreigners cannot bring personal firearms into Turkey without prior ministry-level authorization
- Embassy and consulate staff follow separate rules under international conventions
Violation of import rules can result in confiscation, criminal prosecution, deportation, and bans from re-entry. Our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers help foreign individuals and institutions understand their rights and risks.
Legal Representation in Firearm Licensing and Criminal Cases
Our law firm provides legal services for the following gun-related matters:
- Firearm license applications, renewals, and objections
- Defense in criminal firearm charges (unauthorized possession, smuggling, etc.)
- Confiscation appeals and return of seized weapons
- Legal advisory for security companies and corporate firearm usage
We act as your legal partner in navigating Turkey’s complex gun control system and mitigating legal risks in both civil and criminal arenas.
Internal Legal Resources
- Overview of Turkish Criminal Law
- Visa Violations and Deportation
- Appealing Legal Penalties
- Residence Permit Rejections
- International Criminal Defense in Turkey
FAQ: Turkey Gun Control Law
- Q1: Can foreigners own guns in Turkey?
In most cases, no. Exceptions exist for sporting purposes or diplomatic needs, but licensing is rarely granted. - Q2: What is the punishment for carrying a gun without a license?
Up to 3 years in prison under Law No. 6136. Heavier penalties apply if used in a crime. - Q3: Can I bring a registered firearm into Turkey from abroad?
No. Importing personal firearms is prohibited without pre-authorization from the Ministry of Interior. - Q4: How long is a Turkish firearm license valid?
Licenses are valid for 5 years and must be renewed before expiration with fresh documentation. - Q5: Is psychological evaluation mandatory?
Yes. A mental health certificate from a state hospital is compulsory for all firearm licenses. - Q6: Can a foreign company obtain a firearms license for security?
Yes. Corporate licenses are available for registered security firms, subject to additional scrutiny. - Q7: Are there separate licenses for hunting weapons?
Yes. A separate “Hunter Certificate” (Avcılık Belgesi) is required, issued by the Ministry of Forestry. - Q8: Can gun licenses be appealed if rejected?
Yes. Legal appeal can be filed before the Administrative Court (İdare Mahkemesi). - Q9: Are automatic rifles allowed in Turkey?
No. Fully automatic firearms are banned for civilians under all circumstances. - Q10: What legal support can a Turkish Law Firm provide?
Application support, objections, criminal defense, seizure appeals, and compliance advisory.
Work with a Turkish Law Firm for Firearm Licensing or Legal Defense
If you are dealing with gun licensing procedures, a denial, criminal accusations, or firearm seizure, our experienced team at ER&GUN&ER Law Firm is here to support you. We provide expert legal advice and full representation in all gun-related legal matters across Turkey.
As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for firearm-related regulatory and criminal law, our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers ensure compliance, protect your rights, and deliver strategic solutions.