Foreign Players and their airsoft replicas
Dutch law allows airsoft players from abroad to bring their own replicas to the Netherlands to take part in airsoft events. This page explains the legal rules and how the exemption works.
By Invitation
Bringing or importing replicas into the Netherlands is normally prohibited.
Foreign players can, however, be granted an exemption if they are invited by a recognised airsoft association.
Conditions
- The player must have a written invitation or declaration from a recognised airsoft association or event organiser affiliated with the NABV.
- The player must be legally allowed to possess these replicas in their own country.
- The exemption is valid from two days before until two days after the event period mentioned in the invitation.
The declaration is a standard form that can only be obtained through the NABV website.
By using this exemption, the participant agrees that the disciplinary rules of the NABV apply.
Foreign players are considered guests of the association and must follow the same rules as Dutch players.
Legal Basis
The exemption is laid down in Article 17e of the Dutch Regulation on Weapons and Ammunition (Regeling Wapens en Munitie).
| Article 17e Regulation on Weapons and Ammunition
1. The prohibition in Article 13, paragraph 1, of the law does not apply to persons residing abroad who bring airsoft devices into or out of the Netherlands. 2. This exemption applies only: a. to persons who, according to a written invitation or declaration from a recognised airsoft association (as referred to in Article 17a, paragraph 1), will practise or have practised airsoft in the Netherlands during the period stated in that invitation, and who are authorised in their country of residence to possess the replicas they bring; and b. from the second day before, until the second day after, the period mentioned in point (a).
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This provision allows foreign airsoft players to temporarily bring their replicas into the Netherlands for participation in an event, provided that these conditions are met.
Transport Rules
The same transport rules apply to foreign players as to Dutch airsofters:
- The replica must be properly packed, preferably in a locked bag or hard case.
- The replica must not be in a ready-to-fire condition during transport.
In short: transport safely, locked, and unloaded.
Summary
- Foreign players may bring their own replicas to the Netherlands only with a valid invitation or declaration from a recognised airsoft association.
- The exemption is valid from two days before until two days after the event.
- Players must be legally authorised to own the replicas in their home country.
- The same safety and transport rules apply as for Dutch players.