With shootings surging in New York, non-New York City residents are now legally allowed to carry firearms in the city for self-defense!

In recent years, New York City's crime rate has continued to rise, with typical shooting cases drawing particular attention. From the 2019 murder of Gu Xin at a Flushing karaoke bar to the recent shooting death of Brian Thompson, CEO of United Healthcare , outside a Manhattan hotel, these gruesome cases demonstrate that violent crime is spreading in both ordinary entertainment venues and high-end hotels. The cruelty and suddenness of these cases have shocked the public, causing panic not only among local residents but also raising concerns about the safety of tourists.

(In the 2019 Flushing murder-for-hire case, the killer shot and killed the victim in the street.)

Take the case of Gu Xin, who was murdered at a Flushing karaoke bar , as an example. This was a meticulously planned act of revenge. The perpetrator opened fire when the victim was completely unprepared, causing her to be shot multiple times and tragically die. At the time of the incident, the victim was unable to fight back and became a victim of the violence.

(The perpetrator in the joint health insurance case premeditatedly fired multiple shots at the victim)

The recent premeditated shooting death of United Insurance CEO Brian Thompson outside a Manhattan hotel has once again shocked the world. Criminals cruelly take lives when victims are off guard. These incidents demonstrate that danger can strike at any time, whether in ordinary entertainment venues in Flushing or high-end hotels in Manhattan!

Meanwhile, New York City's gun policy underwent a major overhaul on August 12, 2024 , allowing non-New York City residents to apply for legal gun ownership for the first time. This change provided residents of upstate New York, Long Island, and out-of-state areas with a new avenue for self-protection within New York City. However, it's important to note that while New York City-issued carry permits are valid in upstate New York and Long Island counties, carry permits issued in those counties are not recognized by New York City. This unique gun law in New York City is a distinctive feature within the United States.

(In a 2021 gang-related revenge killing, the killer went on a shooting spree against the victim.)

Amidst deteriorating crime rates and numerous civil lawsuits stemming from constitutional gun ownership, New York City has relaxed its gun control policies for non-New York residents. You can now legally carry a firearm in New York City, provided you meet the following conditions:

1. Applicants must be at least 21 years old to ensure they have legal capacity and psychological maturity.

2. Applicants must obtain a valid firearms license in their place of residence and ensure its validity.

3. Applicants must pass a comprehensive background check by the New York City Police Department, including criminal record, mental health status, and gun safety course .

Furthermore, New York City maintains strict regulations regarding legal gun license holders, such as prohibiting carrying firearms into designated gun-free areas (e.g., Times Square, public transportation, schools, government buildings) . Applicants must familiarize themselves with and comply with relevant laws to ensure both legality and safety.

According to data from the US Concealed Carry Association website, this map shows the states where a New York City carry-on permit is permitted. States marked in red do not recognize New York City carry-on permits at all; states marked in green and blue recognize them; and states marked in yellow indicate that one must be 18 or 21 years of age or older to carry a pistol with a New York City carry-on permit.

According to data provided on the US Concealed Carry Association website, this map shows the states where a carry-on permit is permitted in upstate New York and Long Island counties. States marked in red do not recognize carry-on permits in upstate New York and Long Island counties. States marked in green and blue recognize carry-on permits in upstate New York and Long Island counties. Yellow indicates that one must be 18 or 21 years of age or older to be permitted to possess a handgun with a carry-on permit in upstate New York and Long Island counties.

Several high-profile shootings serve as a stark reminder that legal gun ownership is not only a means of self-protection but also a powerful deterrent to criminals. In the face of sudden threats of violence, owning a legal firearm can significantly increase a victim's chances of survival. New York City's new policy offers this opportunity to residents of upstate New York, Long Island, and out-of-state areas ; provided they meet the requirements, they too can bring a gun into New York City to legally protect themselves and their families.

(New York City Police Department's non-resident concealed carry (out-of-state) handgun certificate)

The New York Firearms and Shooting Association (NYFA) and its partner agencies provide guidance on gun license applications for non-New York residents and New York State residents. Our services include the gun license application process, gun safety training courses, background check guidance, and full assistance with purchasing firearms to help you successfully obtain a legal gun license.

Whether you are a resident of upstate New York, Long Island, or an out-of-state traveler, you can bring a gun into New York City to legally protect yourself and your family, provided you meet the requirements.