Visitor visa alien and firearms?

[Malamute]

I'm looking for information regarding a legal visiting alien and if there is any legal avenue for them to posses or own firearms in the US. They own property and vehicles in the states, but are on a visitors visa.

Thanks for any information.

 

[hirundo82]

The ATF has a FAQ that answers this question.

Per federal law (18 USC §922(y)(2)), nonresident aliens can possess and purchase firearms only if they have a valid hunting license. To purchase from an FFL, they must be able to be able to document 90 days of residency in a state.

There is not limitation on only using the firearms for hunting; they may use them for any lawful purpose.

 

[GRIZ22]

There are state laws in many states that will not let someone on a visitor's visa buy guns, register vehicles, etc.

 

[oneounceload]

Have friends from other countries who have homes here in FL - they are legal to register cars, buy guns - but they need to make sure they do not spend more than 6 months here - they'll catch more flax and legal issues than illegals sneaking across the border - but guns are a non-issue

 

[natman]

Hunting license and PROOF of 90 day residence in the state of purchase. Verify what is acceptable proof of residence with your state; some states have tougher requirements than the Feds. You should also be aware that many states require hunter's education before issuing a hunting license.

http://www.atf.gov/publications/newsletters/ffl/ffl-newsletter-2008-11.pdf

 

[Snowy Rivers]

As an Oregon FFL, we have never had to deal with the hunting license issue.
Yessss the 90 days worth of electric bills, rent receipts etc.

We photo copy the "proof of residency" their green card and their valid Oregon drivers license.

We call the 4473 into the State police (Oregon does not use NICS) and in most cases the sale will be delayed a day or two.

We have one client who is a legal alien and buys many guns, his approvals come through within a few minutes to maybe an hour after calling it in.

Not really an issue, just have to keep the paperwork in order is all.

Snowy

 

[Malamute]

Thanks very much for the replies.