Some of you may already be aware but the Home Office has stated that as from the 29th September 2026, there will be changes to the firearms application forms.

1. The revised prescribed application form (Form 201) will require details of members of the applicant’s household to be provided on the form.
2. The revised application form will also require the applicant to provide details if they have a second home where their firearms will be stored.
3. The revised firearms and shotgun applications will make it a condition that the holder advises the police if they are diagnosed with, or treated for a relevant medical condition (such as depression or dementia) during the five year validity of the certificate.
4. The revised firearm and shotgun certificates will make it a condition that the holder advises the police if they consult a third-party doctor who is not from their GP practice, about any relevant medical condition.

The Secretary of State has the power under Section 53, Firearms Act, 1968 to make the rules governing the form of certificates and other things that need prescribing under the Act.

There will be a period of grace in that applications already in the process of being submitted will not be affected until the 31st October, 2026. After that the Form 201 must be used.