A new set of administrative and regulatory measures will take effect across Belgium starting tomorrow, November 1, impacting the healthcare sector, retail businesses, and local environmental initiatives.
Euthanasia Reimbursement for Doctors
In a significant move, Belgium will now officially reimburse euthanasia procedures under its national health insurance system. The National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance (RIZIV/INAMI) announced that doctors performing euthanasia will receive a fee of €180.24.
This fee covers all associated costs, including materials, certification of death, and completion of official documents. Patients and their families will no longer bear any financial burden for the procedure. The inclusion of euthanasia under reimbursable healthcare ensures that the service is accessible and financially supported by the national fund.
Simplified Alcohol and Tobacco Retail Licensing
Retailers of alcohol and tobacco products will benefit from streamlined regulations through the introduction of a unified “Alcohol and Tobacco Retailer” permit. This new system replaces the three separate certificates previously required for ethyl alcohol, manufactured tobacco, and raw tobacco.
According to the government, the new approach reduces administrative confusion and burdens for mixed retailers, such as night shops and specialty stores. The rule also extends to retailers of e-liquids, which are legally classified as manufactured tobacco products. Applications for the new permit must be completed via MyMinfin or an authorised business counter before the regulation takes effect.
Expanded Autonomy for Home Nurses
From November, home nurses in Belgium will be granted greater independence in their professional duties. They will be able to perform more medical procedures—such as injections, wound care, and catheter management—without needing a doctor’s prescription.
Federal Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke (Vooruit) stated that the reform aims to reduce bureaucracy and allow nurses to focus more on patient care. “We are cutting unnecessary administration so that caregivers can focus on their patients. This makes home care more manageable for everyone,” he said.
Genk Opens Belgium’s Latest Burial Forest
The city of Genk, in Limburg province, is launching a 2,700m² burial forest, offering a natural and sustainable alternative to traditional cemeteries. The area allows residents to scatter ashes or place biodegradable urns among the trees, combining remembrance with forest conservation.
This eco-friendly practice, already popular in the Netherlands and Germany, is gaining traction in Belgium. Genk’s burial forest provides a peaceful, environmentally conscious space where loved ones can rest amidst nature’s renewal.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
