Benelux

Benelux removes border barrier for ambulance services between Belgium and the Netherlands

10 Nov. 2026

Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg are improving cross-border emergency healthcare in the Belgian-Dutch border regions. During the Benelux Summit in Maastricht, Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten signed a Benelux Decision that makes it possible to transport patients to the nearest appropriate hospital, even when it is located across the border, as is already the case in the Belgian-Luxembourg border regions. The aim is to put the patient first, not the national border.

Today, Belgian ambulances are generally not allowed to transport patients to hospitals in the Netherlands. The Maastricht UMC+ is currently the only exception to this rule.

This new Benelux Decision removes this obstacle. It amends the existing Benelux rules on cross-border ambulance services and creates a framework for determining the most appropriate emergency department, regardless of which side of the border it is located on.

The right care, in the right place

When selecting a hospital, consideration will be given to the patient’s medical condition, accessibility and available capacity. The emergency dispatch centre may, where necessary and in consultation with its counterpart across the border, determine the most suitable destination for the patient. This can save valuable time and improve access to the care that residents of border regions need.

Dutch ambulances are already permitted to transport patients to emergency departments in Belgium. This possibility remains unchanged. The existing arrangements between Belgium and Luxembourg, which served as a model for these new provisions, also remain unchanged.

Concrete cooperation delivering results for citizens

The signing of the Decision during the Benelux Summit highlights the political importance that Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg attach to removing practical cross-border obstacles. The Decision builds on existing Benelux cooperation in the field of cross-border emergency healthcare and addresses a challenge that emergency services and residents in Belgian-Dutch border regions have faced for many years.

With this decision, the Benelux once again confirms its role as a testing ground for cross-border cooperation in Europe. Governments are working together on practical solutions that make a tangible difference in the daily lives of citizens.

Implementation

The new arrangements still need to be implemented. In addition, some practical issues remain, particularly regarding the reimbursement of hospital care. Belgium and the Netherlands apply different systems and are working together to find a solution.

The signing of this Decision already marks an important step towards better coordination of emergency healthcare across national borders.