Next steps for individuals
The period to declare your prohibited firearms has ended and declarations are now being assessed. Declarations can no longer be submitted. Exceptions will only be considered for:
- Those who opened a case with the contact centre before the declaration period ended. Non-digital applications postmarked no later than April 15, 2026
- Members of the Canadian Armed Forces or law enforcement agencies having difficulties submitting a declaration due to being deployed outside of Canada
Once your declaration has been assessed, you will receive a message in your Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program (ASFCP) web portal account (or by phone and mail if you submitted a paper declaration), confirming next steps to finalize your claim and dispose of your firearms.
The collection, deactivation and compensation processes are expected to run from spring through early fall 2026. Collection for compensation will be done efficiently, with specific timelines established for each participating region of Canada. If you participated in the declaration period and have not yet received a notification, you will be notified once collection and deactivation can begin in your area.
Important: You must wait to receive your notification and accept/sign your Funding Agreement before proceeding to deactivate or turn in your firearm for compensation. Failure to do so may result in ineligibility for compensation under the program.
If you live in Saskatchewan or Alberta, please consult your provincial government for any additional laws or regulations that may affect your participation in the program.
While participating in the program is voluntary, compliance with the law is not. Individual firearm owners must safely dispose of or deactivate their assault-style firearms before the amnesty period ends on October 30, 2026 or risk criminal liability for the illegal possession of a prohibited firearm.