Laser Eye Surgery
Laser vision correction surgery including LASIK, PRK, SMILE, and LASEK, performed by a licensed ophthalmologist
Eligible provinces
Optometrist
13 of 13 provinces
Optician
10 of 13 provinces
Ophthalmic Assistant
2 of 13 provinces
Is laser eye surgery CRA eligible in Canada?
Yes. Laser eye surgery is a CRA-eligible medical expense when performed by an ophthalmologist or licensed eye surgery clinic. No prescription is required. Laser eye surgery is reimbursable through a Health Spending Account (HSA).
What Qualifies
- LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
- LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis)
- SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)
- ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery — a non-laser implant procedure also eligible as a medical service
- Pre-operative consultations and diagnostic testing forming part of the surgical workup
- Post-operative follow-up appointments
- Enhancement or touch-up procedures following the original surgery
- Prescription eye drops and medications required during recovery
Good to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
Is laser eye surgery CRA eligible?
Yes. All common laser refractive procedures (LASIK, PRK, LASEK, SMILE) qualify under paragraph 118.2(2)(a) of the Income Tax Act.
Can I claim laser eye surgery through my HSA?
Yes. Laser eye surgery is reimbursable through a Health Spending Account. No prescription is needed.
Source
Based on the CRA's official eligible medical expenses list and Income Tax Folio S1-F1-C1, "Vision care".
Detailed Guide
This information is sourced from the Canada Revenue Agency's official Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC) reference guide (lines 33099 and 33199). This is not tax advice. For the most current rulings, consult the CRA directly or speak with a qualified tax professional.
Based on CRA data last updated 2026-01-20. Page last reviewed 2026-03-20.