Yes, home births are legal in Belgium under strict conditions. The federal Public Health Law (2009) permits home deliveries when attended by a qualified midwife, while physicians may oversee high-risk cases. Since 2023, the Flemish and Walloon regions enforce additional midwifery-led protocols, aligning with 2026 EU maternal health directives.
Key Regulations for Home Births in Belgium
- Midwife Mandate: Only certified midwives registered with the Federale Raad der Verpleegkundigen en Vroedvrouwen (Federal Council of Nurses and Midwives) may legally attend home births. Physicians intervene only for complications or high-risk pregnancies.
- Risk Assessment Protocol: A mandatory prenatal risk evaluation must be documented by the 36th week of pregnancy. The Koningin Paola Fonds (Queen Paola Fund) and regional health inspectors audit compliance biannually.
- Emergency Transfer Plan: Midwives must submit a pre-approved transfer protocol to the Rijksinstituut voor Ziekte- en Invaliditeitsverzekering (RIZIV/INAMI), ensuring rapid hospital access within 30 minutes for emergencies. Non-compliance voids liability coverage.