New regulation grants military exemption for individuals with autism
A new legal amendment has introduced military service exemptions for individuals diagnosed with autism, as part of changes to Greece’s conscription regulations.
Under Law No. 5265/2026, which entered into force on January 1, 2026, individuals with an officially documented autism-related disability rate of at least 67% will be considered medically unfit for military service and granted exemption on health grounds.
Documentation Required
Applicants seeking to benefit from the exemption must submit:
- An official medical disability report certifying the autism diagnosis and disability rate
- Family status documents prepared specifically for military service procedures
In cases involving parental death, legal guardianship, declared absence, or court-issued custody and care rulings, applicants are also required to provide supporting official documents confirming their legal status.
Purpose of the Regulation
Authorities stated that the regulation aims to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities and to prevent potential injustices during military medical assessment procedures. The change is also intended to standardize practices and ensure clarity in exemption decisions related to neurodevelopmental conditions.
