If you wear contact lenses and are living in France, you’ll eventually need an eye test — either to renew your prescription, check your lens fit, or deal with any changes in your vision. Whether you’re freshly landed or fully settled, navigating this process in a new country can be confusing. So here’s your friendly guide to eye tests in France — made simple, stress-free, and crystal clear (just like your vision will be).
👀 Who Does What? Optician vs. Ophthalmologist
France has two types of eye professionals, and each plays a different role in your eye care:
- Optician (opticien):
You’ll find opticians in optical stores like Krys, Afflelou, Optic 2000, and GrandOptical. Opticians can perform basic vision tests, help you choose and fit contact lenses, and adjust or renew existing prescriptions (within limits). However, they do not diagnose or treat eye diseases. - Ophthalmologist (ophtalmologiste):
These are medical doctors who specialise in eye health. They are the only ones legally authorised to:- Diagnose and treat eye conditions (like glaucoma or infections)
- Prescribe first-time contact lenses or glasses
- Perform in-depth eye exams
- Approve medical forms for reimbursement of certain treatments or eyewear
To book with an ophthalmologist, you can find one through:
- Your local hospital or medical centre
- Doctolib.fr (for online appointments)
- A referral from your GP (médecin traitant)
👓 How to Book an Appointment
- For basic vision checks (especially if you’ve already been prescribed contacts):
Walk into your local optician or book a free eye test appointment. Many stores offer walk-ins or quick scheduling. - For medical eye exams, first-time prescriptions, or any eye health concerns:
Book with an ophthalmologist via Doctolib.fr or call your nearest cabinet d’ophtalmologie. Note: there may be waiting times, especially in rural areas — sometimes up to several months.
💶 How Much Does It Cost?
- Optician eye check: Often free or around €20–€50
- Ophthalmologist visit: Usually €30–€70, depending on the consultation
You’ll get 70% of the standard fee reimbursed by the French healthcare system (Assurance Maladie) if you’re registered and have a Carte Vitale. The rest is typically covered by your mutuelle (top-up health insurance). If you don’t have top-up insurance yet, you’ll pay the balance out of pocket.
🧾 What to Bring to Your Appointment
- Your current contact lenses
- Your prescription (if available)
- Carte Vitale and mutuelle card (if you have one)
- Any concerns or symptoms you want to mention
If you’re getting fitted for lenses, the optician or ophthalmologist may want to test your vision with and without lenses, so bring your glasses too if you have them.
🪞Can I Just Go to an Optician?
If you already wear contact lenses and just need a basic renewal or replacement, yes — an optician might be enough. But if it’s been a while since your last proper check-up, or you’re having any discomfort or changes in vision, it’s wise to see an ophthalmologist.
💡 Final Tips
- Ophthalmologists can have long wait times, especially outside cities. Plan ahead.
- Some opticians offer rapid appointments, even without a referral.
- Keep all receipts for reimbursement.
- Check with your mutuelle for what’s covered — especially if you’re buying lenses or glasses.
In a nutshell: Whether you’re due for a routine check-up or noticing changes in your vision, knowing the difference between an optician and an ophthalmologist will help you get the right care — without wasting time or money. Book smart, bring your paperwork, and give your eyes the care they deserve!
At Hello Santé, we’re here to make the French healthcare system feel a little less confusing — and a lot more human. Whether you need help finding an ophthalmologist, booking an appointment, or understanding your reimbursement paperwork, we’ve got your back. We can also walk you through what to expect at your eye exam, help with language support during visits, and make sure you know exactly what your Carte Vitale and mutuelle will cover. No question is too small — if it’s to do with your health in France, we’re here to help you see things clearly (pun intended). 👓💙