Author: Jamie Lingham – CEO and Global Immigration Leader
Germany has implemented a requirement under its updated military service law for men aged 17 to 45 to seek approval before leaving the country for extended periods. This applies to overseas stays, including study, work, and long-term travel that exceeds three months.
The measure was introduced as part of broader updates to Germany’s military service framework. Under existing conscription provisions, relocating abroad without approval may result in military service obligations remaining active, as standard suspension arrangements may not apply.
The requirement took effect on 1 January 2026 as part of the Military Service Modernisation Act but was only recently publicised in the media. This has not yet had an impact on citizens exiting Germany and there has not been a change to Australian visa eligibility or requirements for applicants planning to travel to Australia.
What the German exit permit rule requires
Under the updated law, men aged 17 to 45 must request approval through the relevant German military office (or Bundeswehr Career Center) responsible for their region before undertaking extended travel outside Germany. This applies regardless of the purpose of travel, including study, employment, or extended personal travel abroad.
The law provides that approval is generally to be granted where no military service is expected during the proposed period, noting that military service in Germany remains voluntary. Dual nationals are not exempt, as the obligation applies to all individuals recognised as German under the law.
Uncertainty around process and enforcement
The processing time for the exit permit for German men aged 17–45 is not clearly defined, although as of April 2026, the German Defence Ministry has not established a formal application procedure, including specific forms, processing times, or documentation requirements.
A ministry spokesperson has indicated that approval is generally granted automatically as long as military service remains voluntary and Germany is not in a defense emergency. The ministry is working on administrative regulations to streamline the process, potentially deeming authorisation granted by default unless revoked, to avoid unnecessary bureaucracy.
Since the rule took effect on 1 January 2026, individuals who departed Germany without seeking approval may have exceeded the three-month threshold as of 1 April 2026 and fall within technical non-compliance. This includes students on exchange programs, employees on overseas assignments, and long-term travellers who were not aware of the requirement.
At this stage, there is no confirmed position on how these cases will be treated. Government guidance has not clarified whether consequences will apply where approval was not obtained, despite individuals now potentially falling within scope of the requirement.
Key planning considerations for German applicants
The German exit permit requirement is most relevant for applicants planning to travel to and remain in Australia for extended periods. This includes Working Holiday, Student, and employer sponsored visa pathways.
- There is no indication or instruction as to what this will mean for German citizens already travelling or residing outside of Germany. This requirement should be treated as a travel and timing consideration, not a restriction on Australian visa eligibility and applicants and sponsors need to confirm whether the requirement applies to their individual circumstances before making travel plans.
How Absolute Immigration can support you
While Australian visa settings remain unchanged, external requirements such as departure approvals can impact travel timing and visa planning.
Absolute Immigration has been in contact with the German Chamber of Commerce who has in-turn advised that they will be speaking with the German Ambassador to Australia in relation to this legislative amendment.
As soon as we have clarity on our unanswered questions, we will provide an update to our clients and stakeholders.
For context, Absolute Immigration supports individuals and employers with:
- Assessing visa options and eligibility for Working Holiday and employer sponsored pathways
- Aligning visa strategy with travel timing and external requirements
- Identifying risks that may affect departure, arrival, or visa use
- Supporting application preparation to ensure consistency with Australian immigration requirements
- Providing guidance to minimise delays and support a smooth transition to Australia
For tailored advice on your visa options and planning considerations, contact aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com.
