Understanding CNS reimbursement cover for glasses and contact lenses

Luxembourg’s Health Insurance Fund (CNS) is your first port of call for the reimbursement of optical expenses in Luxembourg. The CNS reimburses part of the cost of frames and corrective lenses.

Everything you need to know:

• Corrective lenses: lenses are covered by the CNS based on approved tariffs, with or without a prescription depending on your situation. You can find all the information on the CNS website just follow this link.
• Frames: A €30 reimbursement is paid out for frames, but only every three years (except if your diopter changes by +/- 0.50 or more).
• Lenses: Contact lenses are also reimbursed by health insurance for certain pathologies, provided you have a prescription.
  

How to claim reimbursement for glasses and contact lenses?

The reimbursement process may seem complex, but by following these steps, you will simplify the processing of your claim with the CNS:         

Visit to an ophthalmologist or optician

The first step is to have your eyesight checked by an ophthalmologist or optician to see if any deterioration calls for a new pair of glasses, and if you are eligible for reimbursement by the CNS. See the “replacement intervals” section of the CNS website for more information.

Buying your glasses

Take your prescription with you to an approved optician in Luxembourg.

Pick your lenses and frames according to your needs and tastes.

Reimbursement claim

 You will have to pay the full amount of the bill to your optician.

You can then send the following to the CNS to obtain your reimbursement:

• The prescription for the glasses or contact lenses if you went to your ophthalmologist;
• The optician's bill and proof of payment;

Don't forget to affix your national identification number to your documents and to enclose your bank account details if this is your first claim.

Tip: you don't need to put a stamp on your envelope if you send your documents from a post office in Luxembourg.

How to make your optical expenses reimbursement go further

• Compare prices: The prices charged by opticians can vary considerably. Take the time to compare offers to find the best value for money.
• Take advantage of special offers: Some opticians offer special offers or discounts. These offers can bring down the initial cost considerably.
• Opt for sustainable frames: Investing in high-quality frames can avoid additional expenses in the long term, as they will be less prone to damage.

Can my top-up health insurance reimburse me for my new glasses?

If the CNS reimbursement doesn’t fully cover your expenses, you can take out top-up health insurance to avoid being too much out-of-pocket. Several insurance companies in Luxembourg offer policies that top up the CNS reimbursement. This can be particularly useful for high-tech lenses or fans of brand-name frames.

With AXA's OptiSoins health insurance, from the "active" package upwards, you get 100% coverage for your glasses (lenses and frames).

 Take Chloé, for example, who goes to her optician after a visit to the ophthalmologist. Thanks to her top-up health insurance, she won't have to pay anything for her new pair of glasses.

Benefits for children (up to age 14)

Children are entitled to special reimbursement conditions. Lenses and frames are reimbursed by the national health insurance fund with no replacement intervals. Be sure to check the specific terms and conditions for young patients, however, to take full advantage of the benefits on offer.

In short, Luxembourg has a well-structured reimbursement system for glasses, facilitating access to quality optical care. By following the steps described above, you can make your reimbursements go further and limit or even eliminate your out-of-pocket expenses.

Useful address:

CAISSE NATIONALE DE SANTE

SERVICE REMBOURSEMENTS

L-2980 Luxembourg