Germany's defence ministry said young men will not need prior permission to travel abroad under a new military service law and will issue a blanket exemption this week to avoid unnecessary bureaucracy. A clause in the law would require men aged 17 to 45 to obtain Bundeswehr approval for stays over three months, but officials say it applies only in a 'state of tension' or if conscription becomes mandatory. The law, effective since January, is aimed at bolstering Bundeswehr recruitment and meeting NATO targets amid concerns about reliance on the United States and rising tensions with Russia.
Germany Clarifies Travel Rules for Young Men Under New Military Law — Blanket Exemption To Be Issued
FILE PHOTO: Soldiers of the Guard Battalion of the German army Bundeswehr stand in position on the day German Chancellor Friedrich Merz presents the Chancellor's Ribbon of Honour to the Guard Battalion, which is responsible for protocol duties and the protection of the German government, at the Federal Defence Ministry in Berlin, Germany, March 23, 2026. REUTERS/Liesa Johannssen/File Photo
By Maria Martinez
BERLIN, April 7 — Germany's defence ministry said on Tuesday that young men will still be able to travel abroad without prior permission despite a recently enacted military service law, and that it will issue a blanket exemption this week to avoid unnecessary bureaucracy.
What the Law Covers
The legislation, which came into effect in January, contains a clause that would require men aged 17 to 45 to obtain Bundeswehr approval for foreign stays longer than three months. The ministry emphasised that this provision is intended for use in a 'state of tension' and would only be activated if military service were made compulsory rather than remaining voluntary, as it is now.
Government Response And Public Concern
The requirement attracted little attention until last Friday, when its potential implications prompted public concern. To address those worries and prevent red tape for citizens, the defence ministry said it will issue a blanket exemption this week so eligible men can travel without seeking prior permission.
Broader Context
Lawmakers passed the measure to strengthen Bundeswehr recruitment and help Germany meet NATO targets amid growing debate that the country has relied too heavily on the United States for security. Rising tensions with Russia have further fuelled calls across Europe for more robust defence capabilities.
Administrative Details
Under the new procedures, all 18-year-old men are screened and receive a letter asking whether they wish to serve on a voluntary basis. Women receive a similar letter but are not required to reply.
Note: The defence ministry described the travel-permission clause as a contingency measure tied to heightened security conditions, not an immediate restriction on routine travel.
(Reporting by Markus Wacket; Writing by Maria Martinez; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
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