Germany is one of Europe's most important hunting destinations, with a deeply embedded hunting culture and excellent infrastructure for visiting hunters. Driven wild boar, roe deer stalking and red deer are the primary attractions for UK hunters. Since Brexit, UK hunters are non-EU nationals and must obtain a German firearms import permit before travelling. The application is made directly by the hunter and is straightforward provided documentation is complete and timelines are respected.

Step 1: Confirm Your Hunt and Obtain an Invitation Letter

Before applying for any permit, confirm your hunt dates, location, and accommodation with your German outfitter or hunting host. You will need a formal letter of invitation from them confirming the dates, the province or state (Bundesland) where the hunting will take place, and the property or estate details. This letter is a required part of your application.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Documents

You will need to submit the following: your UK Firearm Certificate, a copy of your passport, the invitation letter from your host, your travel dates, and details of where you will be staying in Germany. Full details of each firearm (make, model, calibre, serial number) must be included. Compile all documents before making contact with the relevant authority.

Step 3: Submit Your Application and Pay the Fee

Submit your documents directly to the relevant German authority. Payment is made by direct bank transfer. The permit documentation is then processed and forwarded to the police in the province or state (Bundesland) where your hunting will take place. The Deutscher Jagdverband (German Hunters' Association) can provide guidance on the relevant contacts for your specific region if required.

Step 4: Receive Your Permit and Travel

Once your permit has been issued and confirmed, you may travel to Germany with your firearms without issue. Carry your UK Firearm Certificate, your permit documentation, your passport, and your invitation letter at all times. Allow at least 6 to 8 weeks from initial application to departure to ensure there is no time pressure.

Step 5: Obtain a German Hunting Licence (Jagdschein)

This step is separate from the firearms permit and is not something Ambulo arranges, but it is a legal requirement to hunt in Germany and you should be aware of it. To hunt in Germany, you must hold a valid German hunting licence — the Jahresjagdschein (annual hunting licence) or a Tagesjagdschein (day licence, available for up to three consecutive days). As a visiting hunter you may apply for a Jahresjagdschein through the relevant Bundesland hunting authority, though in practice many visiting hunters obtain a Tagesjagdschein through their German host. Your outfitter will advise on the correct route for your hunt. Without a valid Jagdschein, you are not legally permitted to hunt in Germany regardless of your firearms permit status.

Step 6: Comply with German and Regional Hunting Law

Hunting in Germany is managed at the Revier (hunting district) level and regulations vary by Bundesland. Your outfitter or host will hold the relevant permissions for your hunt. The German Weapons Act (Waffengesetz) governs firearms possession in Germany. Confirm all season dates, bag limits, and licence requirements with your host before finalising travel plans.