Spain provides free eyewear to half a million children
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In Spain, nearly half a million children and teenagers are now receiving free glasses and contact lenses through the Plan Veo program.
Launched in December 2025, the initiative provides up to 100 euros annually for eyewear purchases to those under 16. The Spanish government increased the program's budget to 73 million euros after exceeding initial expectations, and approximately 75% of the country’s optical shops, around 7,800 businesses and 13,000 professionals, are participating.
Minister of Health Mónica García explained the program aims to ensure children can access necessary vision care regardless of their family’s financial situation, calling rights “universal.” Government data indicates over 700,000 children in Spain experience vision problems, and undiagnosed visual issues may contribute to poor academic performance for one in three students.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez highlighted the plan as a reinforcement of public healthcare and the social safety net, noting a 145 billion euro increase in investment for social programs under his government. He emphasized the importance of accessible healthcare and stated his administration will not allow public services to depend on individual wealth. The Plan Veo will remain available through December 31st.
