A new amendment to Poland’s 2022 Defense Act means citizens residing outside the country may receive military summons, effective in 2026.
Polish citizens abroad
According to the amendment, Polish nationals living abroad can be called for military service, regardless of age and health status. Dual‑citizens residing outside Poland are exempt. Those who have already served in the armed forces of another country are also excluded from the call. During a mobilization, residents abroad may still be summoned.
2026 Military Qualification Call
The call for military qualification will begin on 16 January 2026 and run from 2 February to 30 April, with up to 235,000 Poles potentially being summoned. Those invited include men born in 2007, men born 2002‑2006 without a specific category of fitness for active duty, and those declared temporarily unfit in 2024‑2025. Women born 1999‑2007 with suitable qualifications and anyone who turns 18 and volunteers for the qualification are also eligible.
Penalty for not attending
Poles abroad who receive a summons must return to Poland within two weeks. Failure to do so can result in a fine or even imprisonment.
