Federal Firearm Rights Program Opens to USVI Residents November 4

Starting November 4, the U.S. Department of Justice will accept applications from the first 5,000 members of the public seeking to restore federal firearm rights, with a specific provision benefiting residents of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The territory is among seven jurisdictions identified by the department as having no qualifying mental-health relief program. This means Virgin Islanders whose firearm restrictions stem from certain mental-health adjudications or involuntary commitments can apply directly for federal relief without first exhausting a local process. They must still meet federal review standards and comply with any separate territorial firearm restrictions.

The rollout unfolds in phases. An invitation-only stage began September 25. The November 4 opening operates "on a first come, first served basis," according to department guidance updated October 27. A second phase scheduled for January 4, 2027, will accept 500 more applicants and introduce a $30 processing fee; the November opening carries no fee.

The Justice Department groups the Virgin Islands with Arkansas, Montana, New Hampshire, Wyoming, American Samoa and the Northern Mariana Islands as places without the relevant relief program, though it notes the list may change.

Applicants seeking mental-health relief must submit the original commitment or adjudication order, medical records and a current letter from a licensed mental-health professional confirming whether the condition has resolved, been successfully treated or is stably managed such that the person is unlikely to endanger themselves or others.

The program extends beyond mental-health cases to cover those prohibited under federal law for felony convictions, dishonorable military discharge or misdemeanor domestic-violence convictions. Certain serious felonies, including those involving death, rape, kidnapping, domestic violence, robbery and terrorism, face permanent presumption against approval.

Applicants must gather criminal records from the past 25 years or since age 18, whichever is shorter. The application requires three character references unrelated by blood or marriage, each knowing the applicant at least three years and not themselves barred from federal firearm possession. Applicants have 30 days to complete and submit after starting.

Beyond the $30 fee beginning in January, separate charges may apply for fingerprints and obtaining records. Federal approval removes only the federal disability and does not erase territorial restrictions or provide a territorial firearm license. Denied applicants may seek review in U.S. district court.