Sorry Gents - I am not lifting stones - I am trying to navigate my life for the future - yes in the past it was very easy. Just drive onto the Ferry, Waive your FAC and EFP, (always checked at Newcastle) and then drive of at Ijmuiden in the Netherlands - again the Dutch customs would check and of you go. What we did in 2018, 2019, 2020 is now irrelevant thanks the European Withdrawal Act 2018 and UK and EU Collaberation Agreement 2020.
Let me walk you through the new Guidance Notes that were issued and updated on 31 December 2020. These specifically state in the notes that
Individuals in Great Britain must apply for an export licence.
Given that these Notes were specifically updated on the 31 December 2020, and they specifically mention within the Exception section that we do need an Export Licence to travel with firearms to the EU, then that is almost certainly the case. What we have all done in the past is now completely irrelevant.
So to start
Overview
Firearms, and their parts, components, accessories or ammunition and related software and technology are controlled strategic goods. Unless an exception applies, you need a licence to export any controlled firearms from the UK to another country.
This applies to:
- individuals
- businesses, including registered firearms dealers
- both permanent, and temporary exports, such as for an exhibition, a competition or for the purpose of a holiday
It is a criminal offence to export controlled goods without the correct licence. Penalties vary depending on the nature of the offence.
In the European Withdrawal Act 2018 the UK retained the articles relating to the control of Export of Firearms. You thus need an Export Licence to temporarily export a Firearm from the UK. And this has been law since 2008.
You do not need an Export Licence if:
1) You hold a valid
European Firearms Pass. This is covered by Article 15 of the Order. An EFP can now only be issued to holders Firearms Ceriticate Holders in Northern Ireland
2) Under Article 16 - you can use your FAC / SC for the export of Firearms as Personal Effects from the UK to countries
outside the EU.
The wording in the guidance is as follows - and highlighted the key bits in
RED
When you do not need an export licence
If the following exceptions apply you do not need a licence from Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU).
Holders of a European Firearms Pass (EFP)
Individuals in Northern Ireland with an EFP taking personal firearms from Northern Ireland to an EU member state do not need an export licence. This exception is outlined in Article 9 of the Regulation.
Article 15 of the Order also provides an exception for the temporary export of firearms as personal effects from the UK to EU member states. This exception does not extend to weapons specified by ML1 or ML2.
You must ensure that the import of the firearm is acceptable to the authorities of the destination country by obtaining an Import Permit or PIC from the relevant issuing authority. This must be done before the personal effects export takes place.
Contact the Firearms Licensing Unit within your local police authority to get an EFP.
Individuals in Great Britain must apply for an export licence. - GB is England, Scotland, Wales,
Exceptions for certificate or permit holders
Article 16 of the Order provides an exception for the export of firearms as personal effects from the UK to countries outside the EU.
You do not normally need an export licence to take or send the following items overseas if they are for personal use and part of your personal effects:
- firearms
- shotguns
- related ammunition and sights (non-electronic image enhancement)
This only applies if you have either a valid certificate or visitor’s permit for your firearm or shotgun.
You must have the relevant items entered on the certificate. The certificates and items must be ready to be presented by the holder, or their appointed agent, to an HMRC officer at the place of export.
So in other words for those of us in England, Scotland and Wales travelling to Europe, we don't have EFP so Article 15 doesn't apply, and as for Article 16 this now only applies to travel outside of the EU.
Therefore you need an EXPORT PERMIT.
