Purchasing / owning handgun in Texas as non-U.S. citizen?

Question

I'm living since nearly 3 months in Texas and I have my residency here & and a Texas DL. The state law says only, that you need to be a Texas resident in order to purchase/ own a firearm (including handguns).

I'm currently still on my F1 student visa, but I will change my visa status in October to H-1B (i'm working for an American company in Texas). I've been living since 2 years in the U.S. and I enjoy going to the gun range with my friends. Given their high rental (gun and ammo) costs, I am thinking of owning my own handgun.

Any advice on the legal situation in Texas? Can I legally purchase and own a handgun as a Texas resident but not U.S. citizen? Does the coming H-1B status make a difference compared to my current F1 status?

Answer 1

You must be a permanent resident (green card).  An F1 or H1 visa will not suffice.  There are exceptions, but they are handled on an individual basis, and the process is very complicated and typically involves the US Department of State.

The requirements are listed in Form 4473.

Answer 2

All gave good advice, but maybe I can help a little more.  I live in Texas and own numerous guns, and have a concealed handgun license.  The person that said the stuff about filling out the forms is correct, but you don't have to do it that way and it's just as legal.  Simply go to a gun show.  Gun shows have dealers, and private individuals there selling guns.  With the dealers you'll have all the paper work to fill, forms, and all the other stuff.  If you buy from a private dealer all they will probably do is ask to see your drivers license to verify that you are of legal age to buy in Texas.  It's just a legal as buying from the dealers too.  It's known as the Gun Show Loop Hole by anti-gun people.  It's legal, and done everyday.  Do a search for "gun shows, dallas" and you'll be able to see dates and locations.  There's one just about every other weekend in the dallas/ft worth area.  

Maybe I'll see you there...I'll be the guy doing the haggling to get a better price...lol

Bring cash.  The private dealers usually only take cash.

Answer 3

Fed law says you have to be at least a resident alien to own or buy a gun

you can posses one with a valid hunting license

When you fill out the 4473 it will ask you if you are a resident ans for your alien ID number

Answer 4

In my opinion, since you are NOT a U. S. citizen, you have NO legal right, to purchase/own a gun in this country.