Poland’s National Health Fund will provide subsidies for glasses and contact lenses to entrepreneurs starting in 2026.
Eligibility for NFZ Glasses Subsidy
Many people may be surprised to learn that subsidies for corrective glasses or contact lenses can come not only from employers but also from Poland’s National Health Fund (NFZ). This support is available to all entitled to health benefits funded from public funds, including entrepreneurs who meet the requirements.
According to NFZ regulations, the fund offers reimbursement for spectacle lenses and contact lenses, including specialized ones. A detailed list of eligible individuals can be found in Article 2 of the Act on health benefits funded from public resources.
Reimbursement Rules and Limits for 2026
In practice, the reimbursement doesn’t always cover 100% of the cost for glasses or contact lenses – usually the entrepreneur’s own contribution is required. The amount of support depends on factors like the type of visual impairment and the age of the applicant.
The maximum subsidy from NFZ for spectacle lenses is 350 zł, while for contact lenses it’s 600 zł. These current limits are specified in the regulation of the Minister of Health from May 29, 2017.
How to Apply for the NFZ Glasses Subsidy
To receive the subsidy for glasses from NFZ, entrepreneurs must first visit an ophthalmologist who can issue both an order and a prescription for glasses or contact lenses.
Next, the entrepreneur needs to go to an optician who has a contract with NFZ. Only with such an optician can the prescription be filled with the entrepreneur’s applicable reimbursement.