Glasses and Contact Lenses

Are eyeglasses and contact lenses CRA eligible in Canada?

Yes. Prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, prescription sunglasses, and prescription swimming goggles are eligible medical expenses under the METC, provided they are prescribed by a qualified vision care practitioner. Because they are METC eligible, they can be reimbursed through a Health Spending Account (HSA).

What Qualifies

• Prescription eyeglasses or frames and lenses purchased with a current optometrist or ophthalmologist prescription
• Contact lenses, including daily, biweekly, or monthly lenses, prescribed to correct a refractive error (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, presbyopia)
• Prescription sunglasses with corrective lenses purchased under a valid vision prescription
• Prescription swimming goggles with corrective lenses ordered by an eye care professional
• Replacement lenses for prescription frames

What Does Not Qualify

• Non-prescription sunglasses or fashion glasses
• Cosmetic contact lenses worn solely to change eye colour with no corrective function

Frequently Asked Questions

Are eyeglasses CRA eligible?

Yes. CRA lists vision devices including eyeglasses, contact lenses, prescription sunglasses, and prescription swimming goggles as eligible medical expenses with a prescription required.

Can I claim contact lenses through my HSA?

Yes, prescribed contact lenses qualify for HSA reimbursement. Non-prescription or cosmetic lenses do not.

Source

Based on the CRA's official eligible medical expenses list and Income Tax Folio S1-F1-C1, "Vision care".