Germany requires men under 45 to seek military approval for trips over three months

Germany's new military service law enacted in April 2026 mandates that all men under age 45 must obtain written permission from the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces) before traveling abroad for longer than three months, with the military career center obligated to issue approvals. The policy has sparked significant public debate about civil liberties, freedom of movement, and the scope of military authority over civilian life. The measure reflects broader European tensions over military readiness and national security, occurring as Germany strengthens defense capabilities amid regional instability. The requirement affects millions of German men and represents one of Europe's most restrictive travel controls in recent decades.