As part of the Government of Canada's commitment to combat firearms violence, new measures are coming into force that will make it harder for criminals to unlawfully manufacture firearms.
Starting on September 1, 2024, a valid firearms licence will be required to acquire firearm barrels and handgun slides. A valid firearms licence refers to a Possession and Acquisition License (PAL) or a confirmed Non-Resident Firearms Declaration form for non-residents. Additionally, as of that date, only individuals with a valid licence will be able to import firearm barrels and handgun slides, cartridge magazines and ammunition into Canada. These changes will be in addition to the current requirement to have a valid firearms licence to acquire cartridge magazines and ammunition.
Coming into effect on September 1, 2024 are:
- Provisions of former Bill C-21 that define a "firearm part" (adding "firearm barrels" and "handgun slides") and
- New terms to existing trafficking and smuggling offences under the Criminal Code.
Former Bill C-21, which received Royal Assent on December 15, 2023, brought forth some of the strongest gun control measures in a generation. These measures strengthened firearms legislation to improve public safety, and also deliver on recommendations from the Mass Casualty Commission to regulate the sale and importation of firearms parts and cartridge magazines.
This is all part of the Government of Canada's comprehensive strategy to combat firearms related crime and violence. This strategy also includes significant investments in border security and law enforcement to combat firearms smuggling and trafficking, and investments in communities to address gun and gang violence.
