Germany: Why do men aged 17 to 45 need military authorization for long stays abroad?

German military service now extends to control over days spent abroad. Since 2026, every man aged 17 to 45 must obtain approval from the Bundeswehr to stay outside the country for more than three months.

It was an article from Frankfurter Rundschau that sparked the controversy. The newspaper revealed that, as of January 1, 2026, men between the ages of 17 and 45 must now obtain permission from the Bundeswehr, the German army, before being able to stay outside the national territory for more than three months.

According to the newspaper, this provision is outlined in the military service law, which was adopted at the end of last year. It states that “men must obtain permission from the competent recruiting center of the German armed forces after reaching the age of 17 if they intend to leave the Federal Republic of Germany for more than three months.” The text also specifies that the same obligation applies in case of extending a stay initially exempt from authorization.

An authorization always granted?

The information has sparked a strong controversy in Germany. Faced with the rising criticism, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense sought to reassure: military service remains entirely voluntary and this authorization is reportedly granted in most cases. “For trips abroad, a simplified procedure is sought,” he said, as reported by Euronews.

The ministry emphasizes that the measure aims primarily to ensure “a reliable military registration system.” “In case of emergency, we need to know who could be abroad for an extended period,” he added.

In practice, this requirement concerns, for example, young men who plan to study a semester outside of Germany or take a gap year abroad. The consequences for those who fail to request this authorization are still unknown.

Behind this reform, Berlin is looking to strengthen the ranks of its Bundeswehr, which is in dire need of new recruits. The law envisions a significant increase in the number of active military personnel, from the current 180,000 to 270,000 by 2035. It is part of a broader strategy of gradual remilitarization in response to geopolitical threats, particularly those related to Russia.