In Ukraine, gas canisters for self-defense allowed to be purchased without certificates and permits

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has simplified the rules for the circulation of gas canisters for self-defense. From now on, citizens who have reached the age of 18 can freely purchase and use gas canisters without obtaining any permits. The relevant changes are provided for by the Cabinet of Ministers' Resolution No. 1735 of December 24, 2025.

The document updated the Cabinet of Ministers' Resolution No. 706 of September 7, 1993 and approved a new Regulation on the procedure for the acquisition, accounting, storage, carrying, transportation and use of special self-defense means charged with tear gas and irritant substances.

According to the Regulation, special self-defense means include gas canisters, gas pistols and revolvers of 6, 8 and 9 millimeters, as well as cartridges for them. The simplest circulation regime has been established for gas canisters: they can be purchased, stored and carried without permits if the person is 18 years old.

At the same time, gas pistols and revolvers remain under permit control. Their purchase, storage and carrying is possible only with a permit issued by authorized units of the National Police, provided that there are no medical contraindications and special training has been completed. The resolution also details the rules for storing and transporting gas canisters, defines the requirements for their use and restrictions on use in certain places and situations.

As previously reported, in 2025, a digital weapon permit became available in Ukraine through the Diia application. This digital document replaces the paper version, which significantly simplifies the process of obtaining a permit and further use.