To manufacture, process, or repair firearms or ammunition on a commercial or self-employed basis, you need a firearms manufacturing license. You can obtain this from the firearms authority responsible for your place of business. The license may be restricted to certain types of firearms and ammunition.

The permit is issued only to a natural person (sole proprietorship). In the case of legal entities, the responsible managing director or the personally liable partner must each hold their own permit.

If the firearms manufacturing business is to be operated by a representative or if a person is appointed to manage a branch office or a dependent branch, you will need a representative’s permit for this purpose. You must also apply for this permit with the competent firearms authority. Deputies receive this permit under the same conditions.

These requirements include, among other things, proof

• of legal age,
• good character,
• personal suitability, and
• professional competence.

Your permit will expire if you have not begun the activity within one year of the permit being issued or if you have not carried it out for one year. These time limits may be extended for special reasons.

• Identification card or passport
• Proof of professional qualifications (for individuals who personally manage the business, a branch office, or a dependent branch)
• Business registration
• For craft-based businesses: Proof of registration in the craft trade register
• Non-EU citizens: a residence permit authorizing the holder to engage in self-employment
• Proof of the need for a firearms permit
• Proof of the secure storage of firearms and ammunition through appropriate certificates or safety assessments

Section 26(2) of the Insolvency Code (InsO)
Section 882b of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)

The permit expires if the permit holder has not started the activity within one year of the permit being issued or has not exercised it for one year. The time limits may be extended for special reasons.

The license holder must notify the competent authority within two weeks of the commencement and cessation of operations as well as the opening and closing of a branch office or dependent branch.