Croatia to re-introduce compulsory military service from January next year

Croatia will re-introduce compulsory military service for its male nationals from early next year.

Male Australian-Croatian nationals will need to report to the defence authorities of Croatia under the change which will come into effect on January 1 in 2026.

Failure to report to defence authorities is an offence.

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The Australian government's SmartTraveller website has advised dual nationals to check their obligations regarding compulsory military service with the Ministry of Defence in Croatia or the nearest Croatian diplomatic or consular mission in Australia.

Croatia's lawmakers voted to reintroduce mandatory military service this month in response to rising global tensions, including Russia's war in Ukraine.

The country previously abolished conscription in 2008.

Croatian officials have argued the current global situation required the nation to boost its defence forces.

"In the face of any threat, defending the country is crucial," defence minister Ivan Anusic said earlier this month.

In addition to the rule change, Australians should also be aware of the new European entry/exist system has started for all non-EU nationals, including Australians, travelling in or out of the Europe's Schengen Area. 

Travellers will need to register at borders and have their fingerprints and photos taken.

This may result in longer border queues.

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