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Spain to offer €100 grant for children's glasses and contact lenses
New universal aid aims to support over half a million children under 16 with vision needs
The Spanish government has announced a new €100 grant to assist families in covering the cost of glasses or contact lenses for children under the age of 16. More than 500,000 children and teenagers across Spain are set to receive this grant. This initiative was unveiled on Monday May 26 by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Health Minister Mónica García .The measure is designed to be universal, meaning it will apply to all eligible children regardless of household income or region. The government plans to allocate €48 million to the General Council of Colleges of Opticians and Optometrists, who will distribute the funds directly to participating optical centres. Families will receive up to €100 off the cost of glasses or contact lenses, with any additional costs to be covered by the family.
The measure is being rolled out under the government’s VEO Plan, and Health Minister Mónica García has confirmed it is expected to become a permanent feature.
Minister García emphasised the importance of the programme, stating that it represents a significant step in expanding the benefits of the National Health System and ensuring equal opportunities for all children. "This is one of the most significant measures of the coalition agreement," García said during a press briefing, praising its impact and inclusivity.
To access the grant, a valid prescription from an ophthalmologist will be required. The aid is expected to be available from the start of the next school year in September 2025, though specific details on the application process are yet to be finalised .
The move follows a commitment made last year by the Ministry of Health to introduce this kind of support from 2025. At the time, plans were announced to incorporate optical aids into the public healthcare system for the first time, highlighting the government’s intention to remove financial barriers for families whose children need vision correction. The government estimates that more than half a million children and adolescents will benefit from this aid, helping to address vision problems that can impact educational performance and quality of life.
Although the financial backing has now been confirmed, some details are still pending. These include how families will be able to apply for the aid, what documentation will be needed, and when the application process will begin.
The government has promised that full guidance will be published soon, in time for the scheme to be rolled out from the next school year. Until then, families are being encouraged to stay informed and check official channels regularly.
Photo by Gustavo Fring/Pexels
