Editing Overview of gun laws by nation (section)

==Americas==

===Argentina===
Firearms in [[Argentina]] are restricted, being regulated by ANMaC (Agencia Nacional de Materiales Controlados) since October 2015. Said agency replaced RENAR (Registro Nacional de Armas de la Republica Argentina), both being a branch of the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights. To own a firearm in Argentina, one must be a legitimate user. Applicants must: be 21 years of age or older, provide a medical certificate that certifies they are physically and mentally fit, complete a safety course, provide a legitimate means of income, and undergo and pass a background check. A successful applicant is fingerprinted and issued a license which has to be renewed every five years. One may not legally discharge a firearm in Argentina if they are not a legitimate user, even if that gun belongs to someone else. Once a legitimate user wants to purchase a firearm, they must provide a secure location to store the firearm(s), and give an acceptable reason for wanting a firearm – such as collecting, target shooting, hunting, business, or self-defense in the home.<ref>{{cite web|title=ANMaC|url=http://www.jus.gob.ar/tramites-y-servicios/armas/credencial-de-legitimo-usuario.aspx|website=ANMaC|access-date=25 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627043916/http://www.jus.gob.ar/tramites-y-servicios/armas/credencial-de-legitimo-usuario.aspx|archive-date=27 June 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Firearms must be purchased through a licensed registry registered with the ANMaC. If a firearm is inherited, a re-registering form must be filed. There is no limit on the number of firearms owned so long as they are properly stored. Ammunition sales are recorded but unlimited.<ref name=Explainer/> Carry permits for licensed handgun owners are extremely difficult to obtain, and require appearing before the ANMaC board to make their case. Carry permits are renewed yearly to re-examine their "clear and present" danger, and the permit is usually revoked immediately if this danger is removed. Those dealing in money or valuables or in private security may be issued a business carry permit.<ref>{{cite web|title=ANMaC permits|url=https://www.renar.gov.ar/index_seccion.php?seccion=requisitos&idt=PORTA&m=1&id=2&secc=usuario_tramites|website=ANMaC|access-date=26 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180507221456/https://www.renar.gov.ar/index_seccion.php?seccion=requisitos&idt=PORTA&m=1&id=2&secc=usuario_tramites|archive-date=7 May 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Handguns above .32 calibre are conditional-use; fully automatic handguns are prohibited to civilians. Bolt-action rifles above .22, long rifles and semi-automatic rifles above .22, and long rifles with a non-detachable magazine are conditional-use; fully automatic rifles and semi-automatic rifles above .22, and long rifles with detachable magazines are prohibited. Semi-automatic shotguns and shotguns with barrels between {{convert|380|and|600|mm|abbr=on}} long are conditional-use; fully automatic shotguns and shotguns with barrels under {{convert|380|mm|abbr=on}} are prohibited.<ref>{{cite web|title=Classification of firearms|url=http://www.anmac.gob.ar/index_seccion.php?seccion=clasi_armas_fuego&m=2|website=ANMaC|access-date=15 September 2017|archive-date=10 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170710032046/http://www.anmac.gob.ar/index_seccion.php?seccion=clasi_armas_fuego&m=2|url-status=live}}</ref>{{clarify|date=July 2017|reason=How civil conditional-use differ from civil use?}}

===Belize===
Permanent residents or citizens of Belize are allowed to own a gun after a background check. The maximum caliber is 9mm, and one may have only 100 rounds at any given time. Licenses are available to farmers to have shotguns to protect livestock, as well as for hunting and personal protection. Firearms may be imported but must be declared before arrival. Imported guns will be impounded by the police and registered before a license is granted.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://belize.com/gun-ownership-in-belize/|title=Gun Ownership In Belize|website=belize.com}}</ref>

===Brazil===
{{Main|Gun control in Brazil}}
All firearms in Brazil are required to be registered. The minimum age for ownership is 25,<ref name="BBCNews">{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/4368598.stm |title=Brazilians reject gun sales ban |date=24 October 2005 |access-date=17 June 2008 |publisher=BBCNEWS |archive-date=26 July 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080726230322/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/4368598.stm |url-status=live }}</ref>
and certificates of aptitude and mental health are required prior to the acquisition of a firearm and every ten years thereafter.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_Ato2019-2022/2019/Decreto/D9845.htm|title=Decreto n° 9845, de 25 de Junho de 2019|website=www.planalto.gov.br|access-date=18 February 2020|archive-date=15 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200215000031/http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_ato2019-2022/2019/decreto/D9845.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>
It is generally illegal to carry a firearm outside one's residence, commerce/store or farm.<ref name="NRA in Brazil">{{cite news |url=http://www.alternet.org/story/27279/ |title=The NRA Takes on Gun Control– in Brazil |author=Hearn, Kelly |date=5 October 2005 |access-date=17 June 2008 |work=Alternet |archive-date=13 October 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081013142946/http://www.alternet.org/story/27279/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Executive Order {{abbr|No.|number}}&nbsp;5.123, of 1 July 2004<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_Ato2004-2006/2004/Decreto/D5123.htm|title=D5123|website=www.planalto.gov.br|access-date=31 January 2016|archive-date=6 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191106111801/http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_ato2004-2006/2004/Decreto/D5123.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>
allows the [[Federal Police of Brazil|Federal Police]] to confiscate firearms which are not possessed for a valid reason;<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://jus.com.br/artigos/30201/a-ilegalidade-na-negativa-a-compra-de-arma-de-fogo|title=Negativa à compra de arma de fogo: ilegalidade da discricionariedade da Polícia Federal|website=jus.com.br – Jus Navigandi|access-date=31 January 2016|archive-date=20 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200220174315/https://jus.com.br/artigos/30201/a-ilegalidade-na-negativa-a-compra-de-arma-de-fogo|url-status=live}}</ref>

The total number of firearms in Brazil is thought to be between 14 million and 17 million<ref name="NRA in Brazil"/><ref name="Gun Facts and the Law">{{cite web |url=http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/brazil |title=Brazil – Gun Facts, Figures and the Law |publisher=GunPolicy.org |access-date=21 December 2012 |archive-date=20 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121220084200/http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/brazil |url-status=dead }}</ref>
with an estimated 9 million being unregistered.<ref name="BBCNews"/>
In a [[Brazilian firearms and ammunition referendum, 2005|2005 referendum]], Brazilians voted against a government proposal for a total ban on the sales of firearms to private citizens.<ref name="BBCNews"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www2.camara.leg.br/atividade-legislativa/comissoes/comissoes-temporarias/especiais/55a-legislatura/pl-3722-12-disciplina-normas-sobre-armas-de-fogo/documentos/audiencias-publicas/apresentacao-do-coronel-paes-de-lira-ong-pela-legitima-defesa/|title=Analysis (in Portuguese) about gun control, Legislative Chamber|website=camara.leg.br|access-date=29 October 2020|archive-date=21 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210521101952/https://www2.camara.leg.br/atividade-legislativa/comissoes/comissoes-temporarias/especiais/55a-legislatura/pl-3722-12-disciplina-normas-sobre-armas-de-fogo/documentos/audiencias-publicas/apresentacao-do-coronel-paes-de-lira-ong-pela-legitima-defesa/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In January 2019, [[Jair Bolsonaro|President Bolsonaro]] signed an executive order which loosened Brazil's gun laws by removing the police's discretionary power to reject license applications.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/15/world/americas/bolsonaro-brazil-gun-rules.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220102/https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/15/world/americas/bolsonaro-brazil-gun-rules.html |archive-date=2022-01-02 |url-access=limited |url-status=live|title=Bolsonaro Signs Decree Making It Easier for Brazilians to Buy Guns|date=2019|newspaper=[[The New York Times]]|last1=Darlington|first1=Shasta}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

Currently there are more than one million guns legally registered by civilians.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.poder360.com.br/brasil/mais-de-1-milhao-de-armas-estao-em-poder-de-civis/|title=Mais de 1 milhão de armas estão em poder de civis|date=31 January 2021|website=Poder360|access-date=1 March 2021|archive-date=24 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210224183309/https://www.poder360.com.br/brasil/mais-de-1-milhao-de-armas-estao-em-poder-de-civis/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 5 September the Minister of Supreme Court, Luiz Edson Fachin, did invalidate some decrees signed by President Bolsonaro. Those decisions, are named as ADI 6119, ADI 6139 and ADI 6466.<ref>[https://portal.stf.jus.br/noticias/verNoticiaDetalhe.asp?idConteudo=494468&ori=1 STF mantém suspensão de decretos que flexibilizam compra e porte de armas] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213090022/https://portal.stf.jus.br/noticias/verNoticiaDetalhe.asp?idConteudo=494468&ori=1|date=13 February 2023}}</ref> The immediate action of those ADIs were the ban to purchase any firearm for home protection
and the purchase of ammunition for any civilian in the country. Those ADIs also affected the shooting sports in some degree, by forbidden the acquisition of firearms of restricted calibers.

===Canada===
{{Main|Firearms regulation in Canada|Canadian Firearms Program|Possession and acquisition licence}}
Canada's firearm laws are stated in the [[Firearms Act, 1995|Firearms Act]]. The [[possession and acquisition licence]] (PAL) is distributed by the [[Canadian Firearms Program]] (a program operated within the [[RCMP]]) and requires taking firearms safety courses (for non-restricted and restricted classifications) and passing a written and practical test with 80% or higher, an enhanced background check, and interviews with [[spouse|conjugal partner]] and references. The Non-restricted PAL allows purchase of most common sporting rifles and shotguns. A Restricted-PAL (RPAL) has an additional course for restricted firearms (mostly [[handguns]]), which have additional storage and transport requirements as well as required [[Canadian Firearms Registry|registration]].<ref name="RCMP">{{cite web |url=http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/information/lic-per-eng.htm |access-date=21 September 2009 |title=Licensing: Canadian Firearms Program |author=RCMP |publisher=Government of Canada |date=26 February 2004 |archive-date=10 February 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100210011847/http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/information/lic-per-eng.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>
The two main reasons for owning firearms are target shooting and hunting. Only Non-restricted firearms can be used for hunting.

Carrying firearms for self-defense against human threats is prohibited without a permit. These permits are typically only issued to police, and those in a profession that involves carrying valuable goods, such as armoured car personnel. The RCMP is also able to issue an Authorization to Carry permit to private individuals on the basis that a person's life is in imminent danger and police protection is inadequate. These permits are seldom issued. In the 1990s, Toronto City Councillor [[Norm Gardner#Second term|Norm Gardner]] was revealed to hold such a permit when he shot a man who was committing a robbery. {{As of|2018|10|post=,}} only two permits for protection of life were actively issued in the country.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://thegunblog.ca/2018/11/08/two-canadians-have-authorization-to-carry-guns-filing-shows/|title=Two Canadians Have 'Authorization To Carry' Guns, Filing Shows &#124; TheGunBlog.ca|date=8 November 2018|access-date=8 August 2020|archive-date=22 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922100810/https://thegunblog.ca/2018/11/08/two-canadians-have-authorization-to-carry-guns-filing-shows/|url-status=live}}</ref>

An Authorization to Carry permit can be obtained for protection against wild animals.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/fs-fd/wild-sauvage-eng.htm|title=Using a Firearm for Wilderness Protection|publisher=Government of Canada|department=Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canadian Firearms Program|website=www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca|date=25 February 2002|access-date=25 October 2016|archive-date=21 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191121140515/http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/fs-fd/wild-sauvage-eng.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> However these are only issued to a licensed professional trapper, or to people in a profession that exposes them to dangerous animals in remote areas. However, the applicant must prove why carrying a rifle or shotgun is not possible, and they must choose a firearm that is appropriate for the circumstances.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/sor-98-207/fulltext.html|title=Consolidated federal laws of canada, Authorizations to Carry Restricted Firearms and Certain Handguns Regulations|first=Legislative Services|last=Branch|date=22 March 2006|website=laws-lois.justice.gc.ca|access-date=8 August 2020|archive-date=5 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200505202515/https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/sor-98-207/fulltext.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

In Canada, firearms fall into one of three categories:<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/fs-fd/rp-eng.htm |title=List of Non-Restricted, Restricted, and Prohibited Firearms |author=RCMP |publisher=Government of Canada |access-date=22 September 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100211000641/http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/fs-fd/rp-eng.htm |archive-date=11 February 2010}}</ref>
# Non-Restricted: Long rifles and shotguns with an overall length greater than {{convert|26|in}} and semi-automatics with a barrel longer than {{convert|18.5|in}}. These can be possessed with an ordinary PAL, and are the only class of firearms which can be used for hunting.
# Restricted: This includes handguns with barrel lengths greater than 4.1&nbsp;inches (105&nbsp;mm), and long guns which do not meet the length requirements for non-restricted but are not prohibited. These guns require [[Authorization to Transport|ATTs]], and [[Canadian Firearms Registry|registration]], and they can only be discharged at ranges.
# Prohibited: These weapons generally cannot be possessed by civilians, and include fully automatic firearms and many modern military arms, military-grade [[assault rifle]]s,<ref>{{Cite web|title=PM Trudeau announces federal ban on assault-style firearms in Canada|url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/pm-trudeau-announces-federal-ban-on-assault-style-firearms-in-canada-1.4920528|last=Aiello|first=Rachel|date=2020-05-01|website=CTVNews|language=en|access-date=2020-05-01|archive-date=1 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200501174044/https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/pm-trudeau-announces-federal-ban-on-assault-style-firearms-in-canada-1.4920528|url-status=live}}</ref> and handguns with barrel length equal to or shorter than 4.1&nbsp;inches (105&nbsp;mm), and those chambered for [[.25 ACP|.25]] and [[.32 ACP|.32]] cartridges. Normally, the only way to possess these is by being [[grandfathered]] in or through inheritance. Most magazines for semi-automatic long guns capable of holding more than 5 centerfire cartridges or 10 rounds for handguns are prohibited.

Restricted and Prohibited firearms can only be used at an approved shooting range, must be [[Canadian Firearms Registry|registered]], and cannot be used for hunting. Transportation of firearms that meet these classifications are restricted by an [[Authorization to Transport]] (ATT) permit, and they can only be transported to and from approved ranges in a locked case.

Non-citizens may obtain a non-resident firearms declaration from a customs officer, for a temporary 60-day authorization to bring a non-restricted firearm into Canada.<ref name="RCMP"/>

===Chile===
In [[Chile]], the 103rd article of the Constitution declares gun ownership as a privilege granted in accordance to a special law.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.leychile.cl/Navegar?idNorma=242302|title=DTO-100 22-SEP-2005 MINISTERIO SECRETARÍA GENERAL DE LA PRESIDENCIA|last=PRESIDENCIA|first=MINISTERIO SECRETARÍA GENERAL DE LA|date=2005-09-22|website=Ley Chile – Biblioteca del Congreso Nacional|language=es|access-date=2019-08-05|archive-date=25 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190725080422/http://www.leychile.cl/Navegar?idNorma=242302|url-status=live}}</ref> Firearms are regulated by the police. Civilian gun ownership is allowed by law but discouraged by authorities, with regular press statements and campaigns denouncing the dangers of possessing firearms.

Police-issued firearm permits require applicants to be 18 years of age,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Explainer: Gun Laws in Latin America's Six Largest Economies|url=https://www.as-coa.org/articles/explainer-gun-laws-latin-americas-six-largest-economies|access-date=2021-03-30|website=AS/COA|language=en|archive-date=4 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210304011914/https://www.as-coa.org/articles/explainer-gun-laws-latin-americas-six-largest-economies|url-status=live}}</ref> provide a mental health certificate issued by a psychiatrist, have a clean criminal record with no domestic violence accusations, and pass a written test on firearm safety and knowledge. Final approval lies in a district police commander, who can deny the permit in "justified cases" not detailed by the law. There are five types of permits:
* A defense permit allowing ownership of 2 firearms which must remain at the declared address.
* A hunting permit requiring a hunting license, and allowing up to 6 firearms.
* A sporting permit requiring membership in a registered gun club, and also allowing up to 6 firearms. It is possible for those under 18 years of age to obtain this permit.
* A collection permit allows up to 100 firearms to be owned, and does not allow the holder to possess ammunition.

Each of these permits has limits on types of firearms used, and allows for a police-issued permit to buy a specified quantity of appropriate ammunition from a specific gun shop. Transport permits are required to take firearms from the permit-holder's residence to a specified shooting range or hunting ground, and are valid for two years. Transported firearms must be unloaded and not attached to the body.

A self-defense permit allows carrying a firearm for protection against specific human threats. Such permits are valid for one year, but as the police commander can deny applications without stating a reason, they are very rarely issued. Automatic firearms are forbidden for civilian use.<ref>{{cite web |title=Guía legal sobre: Control de Armas |url=https://www.bcn.cl/leyfacil/recurso/control-de-armas |website=Biblioteca del Congreso Nacional de Chile |date=27 November 2014 |access-date=22 September 2019 |archive-date=12 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191112121820/https://www.bcn.cl/leyfacil/recurso/control-de-armas |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Cuba===
Gun control law enacted in 2008 in Cuba divides firearm licenses in to six categories:<ref>[https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/cuba Cuba — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226200405/https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/cuba |date=26 December 2023 }} Alpers, Philip and Marcus Wilson. 2022. Cuba — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law. Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney. GunPolicy.org, 7 December. Accessed 26 December 2023.</ref>
* ''First self-defense permit'' allows possession and carry of pistols or revolvers. It is issued for people who require them due to their job in security or who are authorized by the Ministry of Interior,
* ''Second self-defense permit'' allows carry of pistols, revolvers and shotguns by employees of security companies during their duty,
* ''Hunting permit'' allows possession of shotguns,
* ''Sport shooting permit'' allows possession, carry and use in authorized places of rifles, shotguns, pistols and revolvers,
* ''Fifth permit'' allows possession, carry and use of firearms for the hunting, sport shooting and scientific purposes by legal entities.
* ''Collection permit'' allows possession of firearms with historical value.

===Colombia===
Article 3 of Colombia's firearm law states that civilians may possess firearms only via permit issued at discretion of the competent authority.<ref name=com/>

In 1993, Colombia legislated gun ownership, effectively establishing a government licensing monopoly. In 2016, president of Colombia [[Juan Manuel Santos]] signed an executive order suspending civilians from carrying firearms, with some exceptions including security details, hunting, private defense and collection. It was extended in 2018 by newly elected president [[Ivan Duque]], albeit with the added stipulation: "for reasons of emergency or security ... taking into consideration among other factors, the particular circumstances of each application". A legal challenge to this modification has been prepared.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://theglobepost.com/2019/01/04/colombia-guns-politics/|title=On Guns, Politics, and Peace in Colombia|work=The Globe Post|date=4 January 2019}}</ref>

===Costa Rica===
Only citizens and permanent residents of Costa Rica are allowed to possess firearms: handguns (up to three), rifles (up to three for sporting use; hunting is illegal in Costa Rica), and semi-automatic weapons between the calibers of 5.6 to 18.5 millimeters.

Foreigners wishing to bring guns into the country must apply with the Ministry of Public Security and declare it when they arrive to the customs department, who will hold it until they go through the registration process. Firearms can be purchased from a licensed gun shop or private individual. Gun owners must have a clean criminal record in Costa Rica and must pass a psychological exam.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://costaricalaw.com/costa-rica-legal-topics/security-and-guns/new-gun-control-law-in-costa-rica/|title=New Gun Control Law in Costa Rica|date=31 May 2019}}</ref>

===El Salvador===
El Salvador's laws aim to allow and regulate civilian possession of firearms. In order to get a firearm license one must have no criminal record, be at least 21 years of age<ref>[https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/el-salvador El Salvador — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226211155/https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/el-salvador |date=26 December 2023 }} Alpers, Philip and Marcus Wilson. 2022. El Salvador — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law. Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney. GunPolicy.org, 7 December. Accessed 26 December 2023.</ref>(24 for a carry license), pay for a tax stamp, and undergo a written test.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://panampost.com/elena-toledo/2017/08/07/el-salvador-arma-hora/|title=En El Salvador se registra un arma de fuego cada hora|date=7 August 2017}}</ref> In 2017 there were 344,587 registered firearms in El Salvador, or 5.6 per 100 people.

===Greenland===
Possession of most long guns is allowed without a permit in Greenland, while semi- and fully-automatic firearms and handguns require a permit. In 2018, proposed amendment to firearm law would raise the minimum age to purchase guns to 16.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=da&u=https://knr.gl/da/nyheder/aldersgrænse-våben-på-vej|title=Aldersgrænse for våben på vej|date=12 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230904214233/https://knr.gl/da/nyheder/aldersgr%C3%A6nse-v%C3%A5ben-p%C3%A5-vej|archive-date=4 September 2023}}</ref>

=== Haiti ===
The constitution of Haiti provides citizens with the constitutional right to possess firearms at home. Only police and military can possess rifles. Handguns are allowed to be carried open or concealed with the correct license issued by the Haitian National Police assigned to the serial number of the firearm and with the name of the individual or organization responsible for the firearm.<ref>[http://www.sdn.mefhaiti.gouv.ht/lois/CH87/CH_P11.php Constitution de 1987: Titre XI : De la force publique  (27)] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101007095408/http://www.sdn.mefhaiti.gouv.ht/lois/CH87/CH_P11.php#A264|date=7 October 2010}}</ref><ref>[https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/haiti Haiti — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226211600/https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/haiti |date=26 December 2023 }} Alpers, Philip and Marcus Wilson. 2022. Haiti — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law. Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney. GunPolicy.org, 7 December. Accessed 26 December 2023.</ref>

===Honduras===
{{Main|Firearm regulation in Honduras}}
Gun laws in Honduras are stated in the Act on the Control of Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives and Other Related Material of 2000.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.juntec.org.hn/Documentos/Civiles/LEY%20DE%20CONTROL%20DE%20ARMAS%20DE%20FUEGO,%20MUNICIONES%20EXPLOSIVOS%20Y%20SI.pdf|title=Act on the Control of Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives and Other Related Material|author=Honduras National Congress|publisher=Junta Técnica de Normas de Contabilidad y Auditoria|date=October 2004|access-date=21 November 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120325230511/http://www.juntec.org.hn/Documentos/Civiles/LEY%20DE%20CONTROL%20DE%20ARMAS%20DE%20FUEGO,%20MUNICIONES%20EXPLOSIVOS%20Y%20SI.pdf|archive-date=25 March 2012}}</ref>
In April 2002, the National Arms Registry was formed, requiring all citizens to register their firearms with the Ministry of Defense.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/citation/quotes/4619|title=National Arms Registry|author=Honduras National Congress|publisher=GunPolicy.org|date=28 April 2004|access-date=21 November 2011}}</ref>

In 2003, a ban on certain "assault rifles" was passed, restricting citizens from possessing military-style rifles such as the AK-47 and the M-16.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.poderjudicial.gob.hn/juris/Leyes/DECRETO%20101-2003%20ARMAS%20DE%20FUEGO.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070703102810/http://www.poderjudicial.gob.hn/juris/Leyes/DECRETO%20101-2003%20ARMAS%20DE%20FUEGO.pdf |archive-date=2007-07-03 |url-status=live |title=DECRETO No. 101-2003|author=Honduras National Congress|publisher=Centro Electrónico de Documentación e Información Judicial|date=28 August 2003 |access-date=21 November 2011}}</ref>
In 2007, an additional decree suspended the right to openly carry and conceal carry a firearm in public, and limited the number of firearms a person can possess.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.poderjudicial.gob.hn/juris/Decretos/Decreto%2069%202007%20reforma%20a%20la%20ley%20de%20Control%20de%20Armas%20de%20Fuego,%20Municiones,%20Explosivos%20y%20otros%20similares.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111004171147/http://www.poderjudicial.gob.hn/juris/Decretos/Decreto%2069%202007%20reforma%20a%20la%20ley%20de%20Control%20de%20Armas%20de%20Fuego,%20Municiones,%20Explosivos%20y%20otros%20similares.pdf |archive-date=2011-10-04 |url-status=live |title=DECRETO No. 69-2007|author=Honduras National Congress|publisher=Poder Judicial de Honduras|date=29 August 2007|access-date=21 November 2011}}</ref>

===Jamaica===
{{Main|Gun law in Jamaica}}
{{more citations needed section|date=January 2015}}
Gun laws in Jamaica are stated in the [[Firearms Act (Jamaica)|Firearms Act]] and regulated by the Firearms Licensing Authority.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.firearmlicensingauthority.com|title=Firearm Licensing Authority|work=firearmlicensingauthority.com}}</ref>
Applicants must pass a police background check and complete a certification process to obtain a firearms license for shotguns, handguns and rifles. Shotguns and rifles for hunting or sport-shooting purposes are easier to obtain than handguns. Fully automatic weapons are prohibited. Handguns are limited to those under .45&nbsp;calibre for revolvers or 10&nbsp;mm for pistols. Ammunition purchases are limited to 250 rounds per year for shotguns and 50 for handguns, with applications for additional ammunition generally granted during the hunting season. A gun safe is required for storage of all firearms and ammunition.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mysinchew.com/node/26251 |title=Guns from America fuel Jamaica's gang wars |publisher=My Sinchew |date=22 June 2009 |access-date=17 March 2010}}</ref> Once licensed, no additional permit is required to carry a firearm open or concealed, unless the carrying of firearms has been temporarily prohibited under section 22 of the Act.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.firearmlicensingauthority.com/pdf/Firearm%20Act.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140817012426/http://www.firearmlicensingauthority.com/pdf/Firearm%20Act.pdf |archive-date=2014-08-17 |url-status=live |title=Firearms Act |date=16 March 1967 |access-date=11 January 2018}}</ref>

===Mexico===
{{Main|Firearms regulation in Mexico}}
Under the [[Mexican Constitution of 1917|Mexican Constitution]], Article 10, citizens and legal residents have the right to own and carry arms, but may only carry them in accordance with police regulations, i.e. Article 32 of the "Ley Federal de Armas de Fuego y Explosivos".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.insp.mx/transparencia/XIV/leyes_federales/refcns/pdfsrcs/10.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151119032210/http://www.insp.mx/transparencia/XIV/leyes_federales/refcns/pdfsrcs/10.pdf |archive-date=2015-11-19 |url-status=live|title=Summary of Article 10 text and purpose|author=Congress of Mexico|publisher=Public Health National Institute|date=1916-12-18|access-date=2012-10-18}}</ref>
Applicants must: have a clear criminal record; proven income and residence (i.e.: cannot be homeless); undergone compulsory military service; a clean bill of health (including drug tests); justified the weapon's use; be employed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sedena.gob.mx/index.php/tramites-y-servicios/registro-federal-de-armas-de-fuego/armas-y-cartuchos/adquisicion/7332-adquisicion-de-armas-de-fuego-y-cartuchos-para-civiles|title=Instructions for requesting special permit to purchase firearms and cartridges by civilians|author=SEDENA|publisher=SEDENA|date=2012-07-16|access-date=2012-12-22}}</ref>
New firearms are purchased through the Ministry of Defense. Prohibited weapons include: large-calibre handguns; shotguns with barrels shorter than {{convert|25|in}} or bore greater than 12 gauge; and rifles which are fully automatic or of large calibre. One handgun is permitted for home defense, but it must be registered within 30 days of purchase.<ref>{{cite book|author=Gregg Lee Carter|title=Guns in American Society: An Encyclopedia of History, Politics, Culture, and the Law|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oD46JBOhMU0C&pg=PA568|year=2012|publisher=ABC-CLIO|isbn=978-0-313-38670-1|pages=568–}}</ref> For hunting and sport shooting, up to nine long guns and one handgun is permitted, requiring membership in a hunting or shooting club. Collectors may be authorized to possess additional and prohibited weapons.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sedena.gob.mx/index.php/component/content/article/661-preguntas-frecuentes-rfafyce/2190-ique-cantidad-de-armas-puedo-tener-registradas|title=What amount of firearms can be registered?|author=SEDENA|publisher=SEDENA|date=2012-07-19|access-date=2012-12-22}}</ref>
A carry license may be issued to those employed by private security firms, and certain weapons are exclusive to the armed forces.<ref>{{cite web |title=Expedición de una licencia particular colectiva de portación de armas de fuego para empresas de seguridad privada. |url=https://www.gob.mx/sedena/documentos/expedicion-de-una-licencia-particular-colectiva-de-portacion-de-armas-de-fuego-para-empresas-de-seguridad-privada |website=Dirección General del Registro Federal de Armas de Fuego y Control de Explosivos |publisher=Gobierno de Mexico |access-date=12 October 2019}}</ref> Licenses must be renewed biennially.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Guzman |first1=Andrea |title=Cómo obtener un permiso para portar armas |url=https://news.culturacolectiva.com/mexico/como-obtener-un-permiso-para-portar-armas-mexico/ |website=CC News |date=10 February 2019 |access-date=12 October 2019}}</ref>

===Panama===

Obtaining firearms in Panama requires a Firearms Possession Certificate (FPC), which requires: criminal background check, drugs test, psychological test and firearms training.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Panama Firearm permit requirements (in Spanish)|url=http://appapanama.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Requisitos_para_tramites_armas_DIASP.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190226224251/http://appapanama.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Requisitos_para_tramites_armas_DIASP.pdf |archive-date=2019-02-26 |url-status=live|website=Asociación Panameña de Propietarios de Armas (APPA)}}</ref> The minimum age to own a firearm is 18. The FPC allows the owner to move the firearms, unloaded and stowed, to and from a gun range. At least 6 hours of annual gun range practice is mandatory. There are no firearm caliber nor magazine capacity restrictions and all kinds of semiautomatic weapons are allowed for civilian ownership. Automatic weapons may only be owned by the state. Ammunition is restricted by type. Tracer, incendiary, armor-piercing and explosive ammunition is prohibited to civilians. An FPC is valid for 10 years.

Concealed carry of firearms is allowed through a Firearms Carry License (FCL). An FCL has the same requirements as an FPC, but carrier must be at least 21 years of age. Only handguns, such as pistols and revolvers, are permitted for concealed carry; however, up to two handguns may be carried loaded simultaneously. An FCL is valid for 4 years.

The Public Security Ministry handles all firearm matters. All legally owned firearms must be registered to their owners and appear on their permits. Direct or private handover of firearms is prohibited. A buyer must submit an application to the Security Ministry which, if approved, will deliver the updated permits and the firearms directly to the owner. No private owner may take out a firearm directly from a dealer. A shall-issue permit policy apply for all permits; the state must issue a permit if applicant meets all requirements. Firearm applications must be resolved in 30 business days or less.

Importation of firearms is only allowed to authorized local dealers. An individual may not privately import his/her own firearms while immigrating from another country. Firearms may temporarily be taken out of the country for sport events or repairs.

Firearms are regulated by Article 312 of the [[Constitution of Panama|Panamanian Constitution of 1972]] and the General Firearms, Ammunition and Related Materials Act (Law 57 of 2011).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.unlirec.org/Documents/Centroamerica/Panama/LeyGeneralArmasMunicionesMaterialesRelacionadosLeyN57_2011.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150919001541/http://www.unlirec.org/Documents/Centroamerica/Panama/LeyGeneralArmasMunicionesMaterialesRelacionadosLeyN57_2011.pdf |archive-date=2015-09-19 |url-status=live|title=Ley Nº 57 general de armas de fuego, municiones y materiales relacionados|language=es}}</ref>

=== Paraguay ===
In order to get a firearm possession license one must have no criminal records, be at least 22 years of age, and obtain certificate of safely handling a firearm. Carry permit requires a good reason. Automatic weapons are prohibited.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bacn.gov.py/leyes-paraguayas/516/de-armas-de-fuego-sus-piezas-y-componentes-municiones-explosivos-accesorios-y-afines#:~:text=La+presente+Ley+tiene+por,y+suspensi%C3%B3n+de+permisos;+autoridades|title=Ley Nº 4036 / DE ARMAS DE FUEGO, SUS PIEZAS Y COMPONENTES, MUNICIONES, EXPLOSIVOS, ACCESORIOS Y AFINES.|website=www.bacn.gov.py}}</ref> {{As of|2014|post=,}} there are 392,000 registered firearms and 1,961 carry permits issued to civilians.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ultimahora.com/sepa-quienes-pueden-portar-armas-paraguay-n832041.html|title=Sepa quiénes pueden portar armas en Paraguay|date=22 September 2014|access-date=12 November 2020|archive-date=12 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112194255/https://www.ultimahora.com/sepa-quienes-pueden-portar-armas-paraguay-n832041.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===United States===
{{Main|Gun law in the United States|Gun laws in the United States by state|Concealed carry in the United States|Open carry in the United States}}
{{Concealed carry permit requirements in the US}}
{{More citations needed section|date=April 2024}}
[[File:Open Carrying US states map.svg|thumb|A map of [[Open carry in the United States|open carry laws]] in the United States:
{{legend|#008000|Legal with no permit/license required}}
{{legend|#00cd00|Legal with no permit/license required; possible local restrictions}} <!-- they should be updated for 2023 to reflect the fact that Florida also has constitutional carry also known as the ability to carry without any special permit -->
{{legend|#ffff00|Legal with permit/license}}
{{legend|#FF0000|Illegal}}]]
In the United States, firearms are regulated by both federal and individual state statutes. Federal firearms laws are enforced by the [[Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives]] (ATF). State and local firearms laws, which vary greatly, are enforced by state and local authorities. The [[Right to keep and bear arms in the United States|right to keep and bear arms]] has been protected by the [[Second Amendment to the United States Constitution|Second Amendment]] to the Constitution since 1791,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/bill_of_rights.html|title=America's Founding Documents|date=30 October 2015}}</ref> and the [[United States Supreme Court|U.S. Supreme Court]] ruled that it protects any individual's right to keep and bear arms unconnected with service in a militia for traditionally lawful purposes, such as self-defense within the home and in public, in ''[[District of Columbia v. Heller]]'' (2008) and ''[[New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen]]'' (2022). The Supreme Court affirmed in ''[[McDonald v. City of Chicago]]'' (2010) that the Second Amendment is [[Incorporation of the Bill of Rights|incorporated]] by the [[Due Process Clause]] of the [[Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution|Fourteenth Amendment]] and thereby applies to state and local laws as well as federal laws. Most state constitutions also guarantee this right, although there is some variance across the country as both federal and state laws apply to firearm possession and ownership.

Firearm ownership in the United States is by right and does not require licensure or proof of need. Federally, there is a minimum age of 18 to possess a handgun, with no minimum age for long guns.<ref name="juvenile-possession">{{UnitedStatesCodeSub|18|922|x|2}}</ref> To purchase from a licensed dealer, one must be 18 for long guns and 21 for handguns.<ref name="dealer-min-age">{{UnitedStatesCodeSub|18|922|b|1}}</ref> The respective age requirements apply to purchasing ammunition from a dealer, retail store or online.

Federally, new firearms must be transferred by a federally licensed dealer (FFL) with form 4473 and background check. Used firearms transferred interstate must also go through an FFL. Intrastate private party sales are not required to use an FFL under federal law, but many states require FFLs to conduct private party transfers.

Federal law does not limit the number of firearms or quantity of ammunition and reloading supplies a private citizen may keep.

Air guns, antique ignition (muzzle loading) guns and guns made prior to 1899 are not firearms under U.S. law, although they are still considered deadly weapons.

Federal law designates two classes of firearms in the United States:

Title I, GCA firearms: This includes all handguns, rifles with at least 16" barrel and 26" overall length, Shotguns with at least 18" barrel and 26" overall length, other firearms with an overall length of 26" or more which are neither handgun nor long gun. Sporting arms over .50 caliber are title I; non-sporting arms over .50 caliber fall into the Title II category below.

Title II, NFA Firearms. NFA firearms include:

* Machine guns (fully automatic firearms; those that can fire more than one shot by a single function of the trigger)
* Short Barreled Rifles (<16" rifled barrel or <26" OAL)
* Short Barreled Shotguns(<18" smoothbore barrel or <26" OAL)
* Destructive Devices (Non-sporting weapons over .50 caliber, anything with more than 1/4 ounce explosives content)
* Any Other Weapon (generally, firearms which do not look like firearms or which would be a smoothbore "other firearm" except that its overall length is too short)
* Silencers (suppressors; any device designed or redesigned and intended to reduce the report of a gunshot). Sound suppressors which are permanently attached to a non-firearm (e.g. air rifle, muzzle-loader) are not considered firearm silencers and are not regulated.

Non-prohibited persons over 21 years of age may own NFA firearms in most states, though some states prohibit some or all of this class. NFA firearms must be registered and go through a manufacturing or transfer approval by ATF before the individual may make or take possession of the weapon. This process can take months, sometimes even years. It requires fingerprinting, photo ID and a tax of $200 per application (per weapon). 

Fully-automatic firearms (machine guns) are heavily restricted and can only be owned by private citizens if manufactured and registered before 18 May 1986. unless an individual is to obtain status as an SOT "Special Occupational Taxpayer" as a FFL "Federal Firearms License" holder. Since civilians without SOT status are only allowed to own machine guns manufactured before 1986, the finite supply has caused the market value of pre-1986 transferable automatic weapons to be 20 to 50 times that of their semiautomatic counterparts (2022 ex.,$500–$800 for a basic AR-15, $20,000-$25,000 for an M-16)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://rocketffl.com/who-can-own-a-full-auto-machine-gun/|title=Who Can Own a Full-Auto Machine Gun?|date=2 January 2021|website=RocketFFL}}</ref>

Law varies greatly from state to state, both in its scope and in its range.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/world/us-news-blog/2013/jan/16/gun-laws-need-to-know|title=Gun laws in the US: seven things you need to know about the data|date=16 January 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref>

Pursuant to {{UnitedStatesCode|18|922}} – Unlawful Acts, persons are prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition if:<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.atf.gov/files/forms/download/atf-f-4473-1.pdf |title=Firearms Transaction Record |website=www.atf.gov |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150215165624/https://www.atf.gov/files/forms/download/atf-f-4473-1.pdf |archive-date=15 February 2015}}</ref>
* They have been convicted of a felony, or any other crime for which they could have been sentenced to more than a year in prison, or are under indictment for such
* They are a fugitive from justice
* They have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence
* They are an unlawful user of, or addicted to, any illegal controlled substance
* They have been adjudicated mentally defective
* They have been discharged from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions
* They have renounced their United States citizenship

The carrying of weapons, either [[Open carry in the United States|openly]] or [[Concealed carry in the United States|concealed]], is regulated by the states, and these laws have changed rapidly beginning in the latter part of the 20th century. Some states allow residents to carry [[Constitutional carry|without a permit]], while others only allow the public carry of firearms upon issuance of a permit or license. Under the [[Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act]], current and former law enforcement officers can carry anywhere (except private property where they are subject to the rules of the owner and gun-free public places like schools) as long as they carry a photo identification from their agency and have completed yearly training from said agency.

Federal law provides protection for travellers who may find themselves going through states with more restrictive gun laws than their origin or destination. As long as the weapons are transported in accordance with [[FOPA]] and the weapon(s) are legally owned and not prohibited in the origin or destination(s), the travellers are immune from prosecution.

Being engaged in the business of importing firearms, dealing firearms, gunsmithing or manufacturing arms requires licensure in the United States. There are multiple license types, depending on the nature of the business, and some licenses have additional requirements, such as registration with Directorate of Defense Trade Controls.

Private citizens in the United States may manufacture weapons for personal use without government approval or registration for Title I GCA firearms (NFA rules still apply to home made weapons). It becomes unlawful to manufacture without a license if the intent is to distribute.

The United States federal government is prohibited by law from maintaining a registry of firearms owners, although the NFA registry which predated this prohibition has been exempted. Some states do have registration.

=== Uruguay ===
{{Main|Gun law in Uruguay}}
Uruguayan law allows for firearm possession on a shall-issue basis. These firearms must be of a caliber smaller than .50 BMG. Carry permits are issued on a may-issue basis, which in practice is no-issue except for people working as private security guards. Policemen and military can carry their firearms while off-duty without the need for a licence. The legal carrying of firearms must always be in a concealed manner, no open carry is allowed. In recent times, politicians from the governing coalition have expressed their intentions of allowing the issuing of concealed carry permits to civilians. With approximately 35 civilian firearms per 100 people, Uruguay is the eighth most armed country in the world and most armed in Latin America.

=== Venezuela ===
{{Main|Firearms regulation in Venezuela}}
During the dictatorship of [[Juan Vicente Gómez]], in 1914, a disarmament decree in the [[Capital District (Venezuela)|Federal District]] was enacted, and later in 1919, a disarmament law was decreed, ordering every weapon owner to give them away to the authorities; the only exceptions were [[machete]]s and hunting shotguns. The official justification offered was to diminish crime, but the law was ultimately used to disarm the population and to prevent possible uprisings.<ref>{{Cite web|title=1914 - Cronología de historia de Venezuela|url=https://bibliofep.fundacionempresaspolar.org/_custom/static/cronologia_hv/zoom/s20/1914-8.html|access-date=2021-06-11|website=Fundación Polar|language=es}}</ref> Historian [[Manuel Caballero]] argued that while Gómez's final intention was to prevent his enemies from obtaining weapons, the law contributed to avoid civil wars in Venezuela for the next century.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Manuel|first=Caballero|title=La peste militar: escritos polémicos 1992-2007|publisher=Alfa|year=2007|isbn=9789803542344|location=Caracas|pages=180|language=Spanish|author-link=Manuel Caballero}}</ref>

In 2012 Venezuela banned private sales of firearms and ammunition hoping to lower crime rates. The Army, police, and certain groups trusted by the government ([[Colectivo (Venezuela)|colectivos]]) are exempted from the ban and can buy firearms from state-owned manufacturers.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-18288430|title=Venezuela bans private gun ownership|date=1 June 2012}}</ref> In 2013 Venezuela stopped issuing new firearm licenses.<ref>{{cite journal|url=https://www.csmonitor.com/World/Americas/Latin-America-Monitor/2013/0807/Gun-control-Can-Venezuela-regulate-the-flow-of-arms|title=Gun control: Can Venezuela regulate the flow of arms?|journal=Christian Science Monitor|date=7 August 2013}}</ref> In 2017 government banned carrying firearms in public places.<ref name="vez">{{cite web|url=https://www.panamatoday.com/international/venezuelan-government-bans-carrying-firearms-180-days-4240|title=Venezuelan government bans carrying firearms for 180 days|date=2 May 2017|access-date=13 October 2019|archive-date=13 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191013100733/https://www.panamatoday.com/international/venezuelan-government-bans-carrying-firearms-180-days-4240|url-status=dead}}</ref>