Yes, spearguns are legal in Portugal but subject to strict regulations under the Regulamento de Armas e Munições (Decreto-Lei n.º 150/2015) and oversight by the Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR) and Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP). Recreational use requires a valid firearms license, while commercial or competitive spearfishing demands additional permits from the Direção-Geral de Recursos Naturais, Segurança e Serviços Marítimos (DGRM). Recent 2026 amendments to the Código Penal further criminalize unauthorized speargun possession near protected marine areas.
Key Regulations for Spearguns in Portugal
- Licensing Requirement: Spearguns are classified as firearms under Portuguese law, mandating a Licença de Porte de Arma (firearms carry license) issued by GNR/PSP. Applicants must demonstrate legitimate use (e.g., spearfishing competitions) and pass background checks.
- Restricted Areas: Use is prohibited in Reservas Marinhas (marine protected areas) and within 500 meters of beaches or coastal infrastructure. Violations incur fines up to €3,740 under Decreto-Lei n.º 15/2026.
- Design Specifications: Only manual or pneumatic spearguns with a maximum power output of 15 Joules are permitted. Electric or explosive-tipped spearguns are banned, aligning with EU Firearms Directive 2017/853.