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Airgun law · World
Are Airguns Legal in Iceland?
Yes, but heavily regulated.
Legal in principle, but the compliance burden is high, often with firearm-grade steps for the airguns most people want.
Tier 2: Major Restrictions
Full firearms-licence regime for the airguns most enthusiasts would actually buy.
IS
The picture at a glance
Each measure below scores how restrictive Iceland is on that part of owning or transferring an airgun, from permissive (green) to firearm-level (red).
ClassificationUnclear
Age ruleUnclear
PossessionLicence required
Transfer / saleLicensed dealer process
TransportCased
AuthorityNational statute
Before you buy or sell
- Mandatory training, exams, medical, and background check.
- Minimum age 20.
The rules in detail
Classification
Unclear
Air guns count as firearms under the Weapons Act 16/1998 (art. 2: weapons that fire projectiles by compressed air), so a firearms licence is required for ALL air rifles. Licensing involves mandatory training, written and practical exams, medical exam and police background check. Since Act 11/2024 (24 Feb 2024) licences are tiered by category: air pistols are Category C, open only to licence holders who have been active members of a recognised shooting club for at least a year, and only for sport shooting (art. 13).
Age rule
Unclear
20+ for firearms licence.
Possession
Licence required
Full licence required; restricted to designated shooting ranges and private property.
Transfer / sale
Licensed dealer process
Through licensed dealers; police registration.
Transport
Cased
Cased; restricted use locations.
Authority
National statute
National statute.
Hunting with an airgun
Use restricted to designated shooting ranges and private property.
Deer
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Turkey
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Small game
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Predators
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Other big game
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Import & travel
Local & import notes
Visitor procedure
All air rifles and airsoft guns must be registered with police. Visitor practicality is low.
Keep exploring
This is a plain-language summary compiled from primary statutes and official guidance. It isn't legal advice. Laws change and local rules vary, so verify the current rules with the relevant authority before buying, selling, or hunting.