
A major but largely unnoticed change to Germany's conscription framework came into force on January 1, 2026. All men aged 17–45 must now obtain Bundeswehr approval before leaving the country for more than three months for any reason, including study, work or travel. Previously this requirement only applied in extreme situations like war or national emergency. It is now permanently in effect. The Defence Ministry says approvals will generally be granted, but the shift marks a significant expansion of state oversight over freedom of movement and it went largely under the radar for months.




























