Germany Implements Military Exit Permission for Men Aged 17-45

Under a recent amendment to Germany's Wehrpflichtgesetz, men aged 17 to 45 must obtain permission from the Bundeswehr to leave the country for over three months. The defense ministry confirmed that approval will generally be granted, provided no specific military service is required during the absence.

This regulation, which applies universally rather than just in defense situations, follows a broader initiative to boost the Bundeswehr's personnel from 180,000 to 260,000. While military service remains voluntary, all 18-year-olds must now express their interest in military service and may undergo medical evaluations. The law aims to streamline military record-keeping and enhance Germany's military capabilities in light of NATO's defense objectives.