SMILE Laser Eye Surgery

CRA last updated: 2026-01-20Last reviewed: 2026-03-20
Eligible

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) minimally invasive laser eye surgery to correct myopia and astigmatism, eligible without a prescription.

Eligible provinces

Optometrist

13 of 13 provinces

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Optician

10 of 13 provinces

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Ophthalmic Assistant

2 of 13 provinces

NTNU

Is SMILE laser eye surgery CRA eligible in Canada?

Yes. SMILE laser eye surgery is a CRA-eligible medical expense, which means it's reimbursable through your HSA. No prescription is required. SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a laser refractive surgery procedure performed by a licensed ophthalmologist to correct myopia and astigmatism.

What Qualifies

  • The SMILE or SMILE PRO surgical procedure itself (one or both eyes)
  • Pre-operative consultations and diagnostic testing (corneal topography, wavefront analysis) directly related to the SMILE procedure
  • Post-operative follow-up appointments with the operating surgeon or clinic
  • Prescription eye drops and medications required as part of post-operative care
  • Any enhancement or re-treatment procedure if the initial result requires adjustment
  • Protective eyewear provided by the clinic as part of the procedure

Good to Know

  • Keep your receipt from the laser eye surgery clinic showing the procedure, date, and amount paid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is SMILE laser eye surgery CRA eligible?

Yes. Laser eye surgery, including SMILE, qualifies under paragraph 118.2(2)(a) of the Income Tax Act as a medical service provided by an authorized medical practitioner. No prescription is required.

Can I claim SMILE laser eye surgery through my HSA?

Yes. Submit the receipt from the laser eye surgery clinic showing the procedure details and amount paid.

Source

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

Report an inaccuracy

SMILE Laser Eye Surgery

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.