Germany has implemented a new requirement under its updated conscription law that mandates men aged 17 to 45 to obtain permission from a Bundeswehr career center before departing the country for longer than three months. The rule took effect on January 1, 2026, as part of the Military Service Modernisation Act passed by the Bundestag in December 2025.

Section 3, Paragraph 2 of the Conscription Act now states: "Male persons who have reached the age of 17 must obtain approval from the competent Bundeswehr careers centre if they intend to leave the Federal Republic of Germany for longer than three months." The provision applies to all resident German men in that age range, including dual nationals, regardless of the trip's purpose, such as work, study, or vacation. It extends a previous wartime restriction to peacetime to help maintain an up-to-date conscription register.

A Defence Ministry spokeswoman explained the measure's intent: "In an emergency we need to know who is potentially staying abroad for a longer period." Officials noted that while formal approval is required, it is currently deemed granted under voluntary service conditions, with administrative guidelines still in development. No penalties for non-compliance have been specified, and career centers lack detailed processes as of early April 2026.

The change forms part of broader Bundeswehr reforms to address personnel shortages. The armed forces aim to expand from 184,000 to 255,000-270,000 troops by 2035 through voluntary recruitment, mandatory questionnaires for men turning 18, and potential future conscription if needed. Military service remains voluntary for now, suspended since 2011, but Russia's invasion of Ukraine and regional tensions have revived debates on reinstatement.

The rule drew little attention upon passage but surfaced in media reports on April 3, prompting questions about its impact on students abroad and expatriates. Critics highlight potential burdens for dual citizens and conflicts with constitutional freedoms of movement, though no challenges have emerged. Conscientious objection applications have risen since 2022, reaching thousands annually amid conscription concerns.

Germany's move reflects NATO allies' efforts to bolster defenses amid ongoing threats from Moscow, including alleged support for conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Exemptions may apply to permanent residents abroad, but details remain pending.