Μake us preferred on Google Eligible Greek conscripts will be able to complete their mandatory military service in nine months under a new provision that will apply for the first time to those reporting with the 2026 C Class, scheduled from late August to early September 2026.
The provision applies to conscripts born between Jan. 1 and May 15, 2008, provided they report when initially called and complete their military obligation without requesting a deferment.
The measure is included in Law 5265/2026 on military service and is designed to encourage young people to fulfill their military obligations at an earlier age.
Who qualifies for nine-month service
Under Article 246 of Law 5265/2026, soldiers serving their full primary military obligation may be discharged after completing nine months of actual military service if they:
- Are called up with the 2026 C Class;
- Were born between Jan. 1 and May 15, 2008;
- Report when initially called for their class; and
- Complete their military obligation without receiving a deferment.
The provision therefore does not apply to those who receive a deferment and report at a later date.
The 2026 C Class is scheduled to report between the end of August and the beginning of September 2026.
What happens if conscripts want to study
The new framework also changes the rules for people who want to continue their education.
Those called up with the 2026 C Class who intend to attend a higher-education institution can request a deferment of enlistment as prospective students, if they choose to do so.
The possibility is provided for under Article 188 of Law 5265/2026.
Under the new rules, applicants do not necessarily have to have already enrolled at the school or institution. Instead, they can submit the required documents showing that they are eligible to participate in the relevant admission or enrollment process.
The changes therefore give prospective students the option to seek a deferment before completing their enrollment, provided they can demonstrate that they meet the requirements for the relevant admission or registration procedure.
