Canada’s strict gun laws include a ban on assault-style firearms and a nationwide freeze on the sale, purchase and transfer of handguns.
In recent years, the Canadian government has banned more than 2,500 makes and models of assault-style firearms.
On May 1, 2020, two weeks after a gunman killed 22 people in Nova Scotia, former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced an immediate ban on more than 1,500 models. The ban includes the two weapons used by the shooter, as well as AR-15s and other weapons used in numerous mass shootings in the United States. “Canadians need more than just thoughts and prayers,” he said at the time.
More than 12,000 firearms were collected and destroyed as part of a compensation scheme for businesses between November 2024 and April 2025. A similar program was launched last month for individuals to compensate gun owners who voluntarily surrendered prohibited weapons by March 31.
Those who do not participate have until the end of the amnesty period on October 30 to dispose of or permanently deactivate their prohibited firearms.
A nationwide freeze on the sale of handguns will take effect in October 2022. The ban does not apply to persons authorized to carry handguns and persons participating in shooting sports governed by the International Olympic Committee or the International Paralympic Committee.
The changes are part of what administration officials say is a comprehensive approach to combating gun violence. Other recent efforts include implementing lifetime background checks and investing in law enforcement and border operations.
The government also helps fund community projects and raise awareness of “red flag” laws, which allow anyone to apply to court to temporarily prevent those who pose a danger to themselves or others from obtaining firearms.
