The Return of Conscription in Europe: Are New Citizens at Risk?

Sovereign Confidential

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A second passport offers numerous benefits, from increased travel freedom to enhanced work and business opportunities. It also diversifies your political risk, ensuring you are not solely dependent on a single country.

However, it is essential to remember that citizenship in any country comes with responsibilities. For example, as a U.S. citizen, you must file and pay U.S. taxes regardless of where you reside.

One significant obligation a new citizen might face is the requirement to serve in their new homeland’s military. This has become a growing concern in Europe. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, many governments fear they “might be next” and are considering reinstating or expanding conscription to bolster military preparedness.

Despite this, Europe remains a viable option for citizenship seekers. Most European countries are still not convinced that widespread conscription is necessary. Some draft only a small percentage of eligible recruits, and most do not actively pursue citizens living abroad.

For instance, if you become a citizen of Greece or Sweden—two countries with active conscription—and then move abroad, your chances of being called up for service are generally negligible. 

Even if you stay in your new homeland, conscription liabilities typically end at age 30, making it unlikely for older individuals to be affected.

Understanding the conscription rules of the country you are considering for citizenship is crucial. This report aims to assist you in navigating this important aspect of your decision-making process.

On the pages of Schiff Sovereign, we frequently discuss the importance of having a second passport: It offers multiple benefits. During the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, many countries restricted non-essential travel. You couldn’t simply hop on a plane to Europe or Uruguay, even if you really needed to get there. However, they would let…

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