Message for foreigners attending US matches

[slik40]

There has been a new rule implemented by the BATF as of 02/20 that is now enforcing a 1998 law whereby all nonimmigrant aliens visiting the US must now complete "form-6" before entering the US with a firearm and ammunition to compete in a match.  The form-6 must be pre-approved by the ATF prior to entering the States, and has an approval timeline of 6 to 12 weeks.

Anyone considering entering the US to attend a match should visit the BATF website for more information;

http://www.atf.treas.gov/firearms/022002ne...onimmigrant.pdf

As if we didn't have enough paperwork!

(Edited by slik40 at 2:21 pm on Feb. 25, 2002)

(Edited by slik40 at 2:21 pm on Feb. 25, 2002)

[Patrick Sweeney]

Deeper in the document, the exception for attending a competition is given.  I'm writing an invitation for all the Canadians, and sending it to the clubs near us.  Invitation, map, schedule, and a highlighted copy of the regs, that should be enough for the border proles.

[slik40]

Patrick,

Our local range owners checked with the BATF and were told that the form 6 will be required.  The exemptions were in force up until 02/20, but now the Form 6 will be required for each time the shooter enters the US.  They also have an FAQ document on the web that asks about Canadians attending local matches in ranges just over the border.  The option they gave us is to complete several forms in advance and have them waiting for each time you want to compete in a tournament (see item 12).

http://www.atf.treas.gov/firearms/nonimmigrant_regfaqs.pdf

If you can find evidence to the contrary, there are several Canadian shooters who will be quite grateful.  I will certainly be willing to buy you some Canadian beer!

[Patrick Sweeney]

Hmmm, I gave the new regs a quick scan, and the exepmtion seemed to be there.  (Wouldn't be the first time a phone call obtained wrong info.)  I guess I'll have to print it out and read it over lunch to see what the damned thing really says.