German men may need military approval to leave country for over three months.

Recent changes to German law now require men aged between 17 and 45 to obtain military approval if they want to leave the country for more than three months. This change comes as Germany is increasing its military footprint and considering reintroducing voluntary military service. The law, which previously only applied in times of tension or defense cases, now applies universally. The German defense ministry confirmed that this system was in place during the Cold War and is intended for use in emergencies to keep track of individuals who may be staying abroad for an extended period.

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