France launches new military reserve amid Ukraine war

The new service is voluntary, purely military, and intended to replace the previous Service National Universel model. Its launch marks the practical implementation of a decision announced by French President Emmanuel Macron in late 2025 amid deteriorating security in Europe.

Who can apply and how

Applications for national military service open on January 12, 2026. Participation is open to French citizens aged 18 to 25, including those living abroad.

Registration is carried out through:

• Official army recruitment websites;

• Information and recruitment centers in all departments;

• Telephone recruitment channels.

Selection will take place on a rolling basis as applications are received. The first intake is expected to include 3,000 volunteers. Service is scheduled to begin between September and November 2026, with final decisions promised to candidates by July 1.

There is no requirement to hold a diploma. The main criteria are motivation, medical fitness, and suitability for the armed forces' needs. Approximately 20% of volunteers may be involved in expert missions, including cybersecurity.

Service conditions and pay

The national military service will last 10 months:

• 1 month of basic military training;

• 9 months of assignments within the structures of the French armed forces.

Service will take place exclusively on French territory, including overseas regions.

Volunteers are guaranteed:

• A monthly payment of at least €800;

• Provision of housing, food, and equipment.

How the service will be combined with education and careers

For secondary school students, participation in the service will be integrated into the Parcoursup system. If selected, they will be able to take a gap year with deferred university enrollment or adjust their educational plan during service.

After completing the program, several options are available:

• Return to studies;

• Entry into the labor market with placement in an availability reserve for five years;

• Joining the operational reserve;

• Integration into the regular armed forces.

Why France make this decision now

According to French Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin, the key factor was Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine, which has forced European states to rethink their defense approaches.

That is why France seeks to have not only a professional army but also a trained human reserve capable of responding quickly to prolonged crisis scenarios. In this context, the launch of the new military service effectively marks the end of the Service National Universel program, which, since 2019, had been largely symbolic and educational.

President Emmanuel Macron informed parliament of plans to deploy 6,000 French troops to Ukraine after the conclusion of a peace agreement.