German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius announced on Tuesday that men of military age are not required to report lengthy stays abroad to the government. The move follows public backlash over a provision in the recently enacted Military Service Modernisation Act.
Under the law, which took effect on January 1, men aged 17 and older were technically required to seek prior approval for any trip exceeding three months. The regulation, intended as a precautionary measure, went largely unnoticed until local media reports highlighted the rule last week.
"Whether they are 17 or 45, or anywhere in between – everyone is, of course, free to travel and currently does not need permission to do so," Pistorius told the German Press Agency (DPA). He confirmed that the ministry has never enforced the requirement.
Policy shift amid military expansion
"During this peacetime period, there will be no permission procedures," Pistorius said. He clarified that the government is suspending the requirement as long as military service remains on a voluntary basis. However, he noted that the ministry would establish procedures to be used only in the event of a national crisis.
The legislation reflects a broader push to bolster Germany’s defense capabilities following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has stated his goal is to build the strongest conventional army in Europe. While the law brings back the legal framework for conscription, the government plans to rely on voluntary enlistment first.
As part of these recruitment efforts, the military began sending mandatory questionnaires to all 18-year-old men this January to gauge their interest in joining the armed forces. Participation in the survey is voluntary for women.
Looking ahead, the defense ministry plans to implement mandatory medical exams for all 18-year-old men starting in July 2027. These assessments will determine fitness for potential military service should the government decide to activate full conscription in the future.
