Optometry
Eye exams, vision testing, and optometric care by a licensed optometrist — METC eligible in all provinces and territories
Eligible provinces
Optometrist
13 of 13 provinces
Optician
10 of 13 provinces
Ophthalmic Assistant
2 of 13 provinces
Is optometry CRA eligible in Canada?
Yes. Services by a licensed optometrist are CRA-eligible medical expenses, which means they're reimbursable through your HSA. Optometrists are recognized in all 13 provinces and territories. No prescription or referral is needed.
What Qualifies
- Comprehensive eye examinations and refraction assessments
- Vision testing and prescription assessments for corrective lenses
- Clinical management of eye diseases and conditions (glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, dry eye, etc.)
- Contact lens fitting and follow-up assessments
- Pre- and post-operative eye care related to procedures such as cataract surgery or LASIK
What Does Not Qualify
- Eye exams by someone who is not a licensed optometrist
- Non-prescription sunglasses, reading glasses, or cosmetic contact lenses without a corrective prescription
Good to Know
- Provincial recognition: Optometrists are recognized as authorized medical practitioners in all 13 provinces and territories.
- Eye exam fees vs. eyewear costs: The optometrist's professional fee for an eye exam qualifies under paragraph 118.2(2)(a). Prescription eyewear purchased separately qualifies under the vision care provisions. Keep receipts for each separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is optometry CRA eligible?
Yes. Optometrist fees qualify under paragraph 118.2(2)(a) of the Income Tax Act, as optometrists are explicitly recognized medical practitioners under subsection 118.4(2).
Can I claim optometry through my HSA?
Yes. Professional fees paid to a licensed optometrist in any province or territory are eligible medical expenses that can be reimbursed through a Health Spending Account.
Is an annual eye exam eligible even if there are no issues found?
Yes. The CRA does not require that a specific diagnosis result from the visit. An eye exam performed by a licensed optometrist is an eligible medical expense regardless of outcome.
Source
Based on the CRA's official eligible medical expenses list and Income Tax Folio S1-F1-C1, "Vision care".
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.