An alien legally in the U.S. is not prohibited from purchasing firearms unless the alien is admitted into the U.S. under a nonimmigrant visa and does not meet one of the exceptions as provided in 18 U.S.C. 922(y)(2), such as possession of a valid hunting license or permit.
[18 U.S.C. 922 (d)(5), (g)(5) and (y)(2); 27 CFR 478.11 and 478.32(a)(5)
I was a bit surprised myself! Now to let my wife know she can buy me a gun for Christmas!
It's crafted more to keep tourists from buying guns while visiting--my interpretation. If you're here as a tourist for sporting activities, then it's different.
Nope. Bought my wife a pink pistol for Christmas and did some research. She's a legal alien, perfectly good to own a weapon.
Funny notes:
I had NO idea how much Filipinos are into 1911 pistols! (The classic Colt .45 style.) I have found my people. I actually have one made in the Philippines, Rock Island Armory, .22WMR.
When I first met my wife I sent her a text about loving the 1911 and how entwined it was with the history of her country. She didn't respond for a bit, thought I blew it.
The gun I linked is some badass bang for the buck (not stumping for that particular vendor). Friend told me how much he loved his, now I get it. If I had some folding money, I'd get the olive version.