Germany has introduced a rule requiring men aged 17 to 45 to seek approval before staying abroad for long periods.
The measure took effect on January 1 under the Military Service Modernisation Act.
It requires prior approval for any stay outside the country lasting more than three months.
Officials say the rule is part of wider efforts to strengthen military readiness.
Government Links Policy to Security Concerns
The defence ministry tied the move to rising tensions across Europe.
The policy follows security concerns linked to Russian invasion of Ukraine, and geopolitical conflicts around the including the situation in the Gulf.the
However, a ministry spokesman explained the purpose of the new requirement.
“To ensure a reliable and meaningful military registration system.”
“In the event of an emergency, we must know who may be staying abroad.”
Authorities said approvals are expected in most cases, though enforcement details remain unclear.
The requirement was first reported by Frankfurter Rundschau.
Officials admitted the impact on young people could be significant.
“The implications could be far-reaching.”
“Exemptions are being developed to avoid unnecessary bureaucracy.”
Military Expansion Plans And Public Reaction
The law builds on Germany’s long-standing conscription framework dating back to 1956.
Previously, reporting foreign stays applied only during wartime or national mobilisation.
Now, the government plans to expand troop strength significantly.
The military aims to grow from about 180,000 to 260,000 personnel by 2035.
Meanwhile, all 18-year-olds now receive questionnaires about voluntary service.
From July 2027, fitness checks will assess readiness for potential military duties.
Compulsory service remains suspended since 2011 under Angela Merkel.
However, leaders say this could change if enlistment levels fall.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz has backed stronger defence capacity.
“We must rebuild our armed forces for a more dangerous environment.”
Some young people have pushed back against the policy.
“We don’t want to spend half a year locked in barracks.”
“We don’t want to be trained in obedience and learning to kill.”
According to BBC News, the new policy is indicative of changing defense priorities in Europe.
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