# Travel >> Destinations >> Canada

Can a Canadian on a U.S. Work Visa Buy a Gun in Texas? Legal Guide

A Canadian citizen living in Texas on a work visa may be eligible to purchase a firearm, but must navigate overlapping federal and state laws. This is not legal advice; consult a firearms attorney.

Federal Requirements (ATF / 18 U.S.C. § 922)

Status: Must be a "nonimmigrant alien" lawfully admitted with a visa permitting employment (e.g., H-1B, L-1, TN, O-1). Tourists (B-1/B-2, ESTA) generally cannot buy.
Documentation: Valid passport, visa, I-94, and proof of Texas residency (utility bill, lease, Texas driver's license) for 90+ days.
Background Check: NICS check via FFL dealer (ATF Form 4473). Includes immigration status, criminal, mental health.
Age: 18+ for long guns; 21+ for handguns.
Hunting License Exception: Nonimmigrants with a valid state hunting license may purchase without 90-day residency (but still need visa status).

Texas State Law

No permit required to purchase long gun or handgun.
License to Carry (LTC) required for concealed carry; open carry allowed with LTC (or constitutional carry for eligible persons, but nonimmigrants may not qualify).
Private sales: No background check required, but seller cannot knowingly transfer to prohibited person.

Critical Restrictions

Green Card Holders (LPRs): Full rights (same as citizens).
Prohibited Persons: Felons, domestic violence misdemeanants, adjudicated mental health, unlawful users of controlled substances, illegal aliens, those under indictment.
Visa Expiration: If status lapses, possession becomes illegal.
Export/Import: Taking guns to Canada requires Canadian permits (PAL, registration) and U.S. export license (DDTC).