Germany Requires Military Permission for Men's Extended Travel Abroad
Berlin, 5 April 2026
Germany’s new military service law now requires men aged 17-45 to obtain Bundeswehr permission before travelling abroad for more than three months. While approvals are routinely granted during peacetime, the measure aims to track potential military personnel amid rising Russian threats. The Cold War-era rule, previously dormant, became active on 1st January 2026.
Cold War Regulation Reactivated in Response to Russian Threats
The travel permission requirement stems from a Cold War-era regulation that has been reactivated under Germany’s new military service modernisation law [1][2]. Previously, this rule only applied during periods of tension or actual defence scenarios, but it now operates continuously in peacetime [3]. The German Defence Ministry confirmed that the measure follows the government’s reform of military conscription legislation under Chancellor Friedrich Merz, which took effect on 1st January 2026 [2]. A ministry spokesperson explained that the regulation serves ‘to maintain oversight’ and ensures authorities know ‘who is staying abroad for extended periods in case of emergency’ [1].
Ambitious Military Expansion Targets
The new legislation forms part of Germany’s broader strategy to significantly expand its armed forces in response to increased threats from Russia [1][2]. The country aims to increase active military personnel from 180,000 to 260,000, supplemented by a reserve force of 200,000 personnel [1][2]. Currently, military service remains voluntary, with all young people receiving a questionnaire after their 18th birthday to assess their suitability and motivation for military service [1]. While completing this questionnaire is mandatory for men, it remains optional for women [2].
Routine Approval Process Despite New Requirements
Despite the formal permission requirement, German defence officials have emphasised that travel applications will be routinely approved during the current voluntary service period [1][2]. A Defence Ministry spokesperson told the German press agency DPA that ‘as long as voluntary military service applies, we will always grant permission’ [1]. The ministry clarified through administrative regulations that permission is considered granted as long as military service remains voluntary [3]. However, the practical implementation details and exception procedures are still being developed to prevent unnecessary bureaucracy [4].
Limited Enforcement and Public Awareness
The regulation appears to have limited immediate practical impact, with the Defence Ministry confirming that violations are not subject to sanctions [3]. Most German men affected by the new rule remain unaware of its existence, and ministry officials declined to specify how many travel permissions have been requested since the beginning of 2026 [3]. The measure primarily serves as an administrative tracking mechanism rather than a restrictive travel barrier, allowing German authorities to maintain comprehensive records of military-age men’s whereabouts for potential future mobilisation scenarios [3][4].