New conscription rule: German men need an exit permit.
Men need approval from the German Armed Forces for stays abroad exceeding 3 months.
Since January 1, 2026, all male German citizens between the ages of 17 and 45 must obtain permission from the Bundeswehr Career Center before leaving Germany for more than three months – whether for studies, work, or travel. This regulation stems from Section 3, Paragraph 2 of the Compulsory Military Service Act (WPflG), as amended by the Military Service Modernization Act .
Details of the legislative amendment
Section 3, paragraph 2 of the Compulsory Military Service Act (WPflG) was amended by the Military Service Modernization Act: Previously, the rule was limited to extreme situations such as NATO-determined threats or attacks. Now it is always valid in order to guarantee a "reliable military registration" when needed – that is, to know who is abroad.
A spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Defense confirmed to Ippen.Media : "The background is to ensure meaningful data collection for emergency situations." Permits are generally granted; rejections are exceptional. However, the consequences of non-compliance remain unclear.
Practical implications for expats
Digital nomads and expats must apply in advance – even for extensions. The change went largely unnoticed, but affects millions. Contact your career center early.
International comparison
Similar restrictions exist in other countries with conscription:
| Land | Age | Condition | Approval? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deutschland | 17-45 Years | > 3 months, always | Bundeswehr |
| Ukraine | 18-60 Years | Martial law, in general | Military |
| Russland | until 30 Years | Upon convocation | Travel Ban |
| Israel | Conscripts | All Travels | Army |
| Finnland | Conscripts | Passport Application | Proof |
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In countries without conscription, such as the USA or France, there are no such obstacles.
Tips for expats
Check your status at gesetze-im-internet.de/wehrpflg and contact the Federal Ministry of Defence (BMVg) if you have any questions. Plan your travel with some leeway – rejections are rare, but bureaucratic. For nestfainder.ai users: Our ExpatGuides help you navigate such regulations worldwide.
Sources: Official legal texts and the Federal Ministry of Defence. Status: April 2026.