Croatia is reintroducing mandatory military service starting January 2026, following amendments to the Defence Act approved by the government and supported across political lines. The new law outlines two-month compulsory training for young men, with voluntary service options for women. This move aims to strengthen national defence, provide youth employment opportunities, and offer civilian service alternatives for conscientious objectors.
Government Sends Defence Law Amendments to Parliament
The Croatian Government has sent amendments to the Defence Act to Parliament, concerning the introduction of mandatory military service.
Its swift adoption is expected, as both the ruling party and the opposition—at least its more responsible faction—agree that such a move is necessary.
These amendments have, in the meantime, also been coordinated with the President of the Republic, so there should be no obstacles to their entry into force, which is scheduled for 1 January 2026—just six months from now.
Here’s what the amendments will include.
Duration and Locations of Service
Young men will serve a mandatory military term lasting two months, while women will also be able to participate voluntarily, if they so wish.
Service will take place in three barracks: in Knin, Slunj, and Požega.
Young men, or conscripts, are entered into the military register upon reaching 18 years of age, and they are sent to serve during the calendar year in which they turn 19.
Exceptionally, conscripts older than 19 may also be called up, up to a maximum age of 30.
Medical Examinations and Penalties
Once they receive their call-up, conscripts are sent for a medical examination to determine whether they are fit for military service.
Those who fail to respond will be subject to a police order for apprehension, with a prescribed fine ranging from €250 to €1,320.
The monthly net salary for conscripts, i.e. recruits, will be €1,100 net, with food, transportation, and leave expenses fully covered.
The service period will count towards employment history, and those already employed will have their employment rights preserved, meaning they cannot be dismissed due to undergoing military training.
Employment Benefits for Unemployed Recruits
Unemployed recruits who complete the military training under the same conditions as all others will, according to the proposed amendments, be given employment priority in county, city, or municipal administrative structures.
Civilian Service for Conscientious Objectors
Part of the amendments also concerns those who invoke conscientious objection on grounds such as unwillingness to bear arms.
They will be required to perform civilian service, with two available models: through the Civil Protection Service of the Ministry of the Interior (MUP), or within local authorities in their place of residence.
“Training through the Civil Protection Service lasts three months – continuously, every day – while service in local government units, involving tasks in fire and civil protection, environmental maintenance, municipal services, and public road maintenance, will last four months, five working days a week, eight hours a day,” the amendments state.
Compensation for Civilian Service
These individuals will also be entitled to compensation, though significantly less than military recruits.
In the Civil Protection Service, they will receive around €250, as determined by Government decision, along with paid accommodation, meals, and work and protective clothing.
Those serving in local government units will receive only paid transport.
Naturally, civilian recruits will also have the right to healthcare during their service, as well as compensation in case of injury or illness.
Postponement and Implementation Capacity
As in the past, this mandatory military service can be postponed until the age of 29.
This right is granted to students and athletes, who may defer for one year due to participation in world or European championships.
Initially, it is expected that around five cohorts of 800 recruits each will serve annually, totalling 4,000 per year. If interest proves higher, capacity will be expanded.
Related: Return of Mandatory Military service for Croatian Men
