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European Hunting Permits: A Simple Guide

A hunt in Europe brings to mind the steep terrain of Austria, Germany's deep forests, or the rolling forrests of France. It's an adventure that calls to you. But before you can shoulder your rifle and head into the wild, you have to get through the paperwork. European hunting permits are a puzzle. But don't worry, with the right help, finding the solution is simpler than you might think.

A Patchwork of Rules

Forget any idea of a universal European hunting licence. Every country has its own set of rules and traditions. What gets you a permit for red stag in Austria won't work for partridge in Spain. That's why good planning is everything.

Germany is famous for its thorough system. To get a hunting licence there, you need to pass an extensive exam on everything from wildlife to firearms law. For visitors, the local police handle your permit, so your paperwork needs to be perfect.

France is different. Each département, or region, has its own regulations and hunting seasons. A national licence is the starting point, but you must validate it for each region you plan to hunt in. It pays to do your research, or have someone do it for you.

Other countries, like Spain or Sweden, have their own requirements. You might need mandatory insurance, membership in a local hunting association, or to pass practical tests. The minimum age for hunting also varies, from 14 in Great Britain (with supervision) to 18 in Germany and Italy.

Travelling with Firearms After Brexit

If you're an EU citizen travelling within the EU, the European Firearms Pass (EFP) is still your key. For UK hunters, however, the EFP is no longer an option since Brexit. You will now need to apply for the correct visitor or transit permits directly with each country's authorities. This requires even more forward planning.

Even for those with an EFP, it doesn't replace a local hunting permit. If your journey takes you through multiple countries, be prepared. Every nation you cross, whether it's France, Belgium, or Germany, may require its own transit paperwork for firearms and ammunition.

Where Ambulo Comes In

This is where Ambulo's temporary firearms permit service makes a difference. Instead of battling with endless forms and conflicting advice, Ambulo brings everything together in one place. Whether you're an experienced stalker or planning your first trip abroad, Ambulo simplifies the process. It guides you through the details and makes sure you have everything you need, from local hunting requirements to travel permits for every country on your route.

Why spend hours dealing with embassies or confusing websites when Ambulo can prepare you with all the necessary tools? It's your shortcut to the adventure, giving you more time to focus on the hunt itself, not the admin.

Make Your Hunt Hassle Free

The key to a stress free hunting trip is getting organised early.

• Start Early: Begin the permit process months in advance. Bureaucracy has its own schedule.
• Use Ambulo: Save yourself the trouble. Get your temporary firearms permit sorted and keep your documents in order.
• Chart Your Route: If you're driving, know the transport laws for firearms and ammunition for every country you pass through. Read our guide to an 18-hour road trip across Europe with firearms.
• Double Check Everything: Passports, permits, firearms licences. Ambulo helps you keep track of every detail.

The maze of European hunting regulations may seem intimidating, but with Ambulo, you're never on your own. A little forward planning and the right digital tool will have you in the field with everything you need, ready for the adventure that truly matters.

Once you're back from the trip, log every outing in the Ambulo game book — your private journal for stalking, shooting and fishing.