Men aged 17 to 45 in Germany are required to obtain permission before leaving the country for more than three months
Men aged 17 to 45 in Germany are required to obtain permission before leaving the country for more than three months under changes to military service legislation in force since 1 January 2026, according to German media.
The rule applies to extended stays abroad, including study, work, or travel, and is administered through Bundeswehr career centres, official military recruitment and administrative offices. Approvals are expected to be granted as military service remains voluntary under current law.
Officials say the measure is intended to maintain accurate records of individuals who may be abroad in the event of a national emergency. The law, introduced as part of the Military Service Modernisation Act, came into force with limited public attention and sparked wider discussion.
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