The paperwork is the part of a Spanish hunt that worries first-time visitors most, and the part that should worry them least. A good outfitter handles nearly all of it. Still, it helps to know what is happening and what you need to send in time. This guide covers Andalusia, where we hunt; other Spanish regions work in a similar way, with their own forms and fees.
1. The hunting licence
Every hunter in Spain needs a licence issued by the region where they hunt. In Andalusia, visiting hunters normally use the short-term licence, valid for up to 15 consecutive days. In 2026 its official fee is under €30.
To obtain it, we will ask you for:
- a copy of your passport, and
- proof that you are a qualified hunter in your own country, usually your national hunting licence or equivalent.
We submit the application before you travel, so your licence is ready when you arrive. Hunters who hunt regularly in several Spanish regions can instead use the annual interregional licence.
2. Compulsory insurance
Spanish law requires every hunter to carry third-party liability insurance for hunting. It is inexpensive, and on our Essentials and Premium packages it is included and arranged together with the licence.
3. Bringing your own rifle
You can hunt with your own rifle, but it takes some planning. The rules depend on where you live.
If you live in the European Union
Travel with your European Firearms Pass, with the rifle you are bringing listed on it, plus a letter of invitation from your outfitter, which we send you after booking.
If you live outside the EU (USA, Canada, UK and others)
You need a special permit from the Guardia Civil to bring a firearm temporarily into Spain. We start the process with your details several weeks before your hunt, and you collect the permit on arrival together with your rifle. Allow at least six to eight weeks.
Flying with a rifle
- The rifle must travel unloaded, in a locked hard case, declared at check-in.
- Ammunition travels separately, in its original packaging or a locked box. Spanish airports allow up to 5 kg of ammunition per passenger.
- Check your airline’s own rules: many require advance notice and charge a fee.
Or hire one
Most of our international clients hire a rifle: no permits, no airline fees, no risk of a lost case. Our hire rifles carry quality optics and are zeroed before you arrive; you check them on a target on your first day.
4. Getting your trophy home
The Spanish ibex is not listed under CITES, so no CITES export permit is needed. You will still need:
- First field preparation of the cape and skull, which we do in the field.
- A taxidermist or shipping agent in Spain to treat the trophy and handle the export documents, including the veterinary certificate.
- The import paperwork of your own country. In the United States, for example, wildlife imports are declared to the US Fish and Wildlife Service through a designated port, usually by a customs broker. In the UK and other countries, health documentation is required for animal by-products.
Many hunters prefer to have the full mount made in Spain and shipped as a finished trophy, which is simpler to import. We put you in touch with taxidermists and agents we trust. Shipping usually costs €200–600 depending on destination.
5. Your checklist
| When | What |
|---|---|
| On booking | Passport copy and your home hunting licence |
| 8 weeks before (non-EU, own rifle) | Rifle details for the Guardia Civil permit |
| 4 weeks before | Flight details so we can arrange your pick-up |
| On arrival | Collect your rifle and permit, if applicable |
| After the hunt | Taxidermist or shipping agent for export |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to pass a Spanish hunting exam?
Normally not. Visiting hunters usually prove they are qualified with the hunting licence of their own country; we confirm the exact documents when you book.
Can I buy ammunition in Spain?
Buying ammunition in Spain requires paperwork for the firearm, and your exact calibre may not be in stock locally. Bring your own, or hire a rifle with ammunition included.
How long does the rifle permit take?
Count on six to eight weeks for non-EU hunters. EU hunters with a European Firearms Pass only need the invitation letter.
For everything else — seasons, costs and how the hunt works — see our complete guide to Spanish ibex hunting.
Limited places each season
Thinking about a Spanish ibex hunt?
Tell us what you have in mind and we will give you a straight answer — including whether the Subbéticas is the right place for what you want.
Request a quote →Regulations, seasons and fees change. Everything here reflects the situation as we understand it at the time of writing; always confirm current conditions before travelling.
