Prescription Glasses in Vietnam: Cost, Same-Day Pickup & Tourist Tips (2026)

Prescription glasses Vietnam guide for travellers: getting glasses here while you travel is one of the best-value things to do in Saigon: a free eye test, genuine Zeiss or Essilor lenses and glasses ready the same day, often for less than you pay at home. Here is what it costs, how long it takes and how to avoid poor-quality lenses.

Prescription glasses Vietnam: the short version

• Cost: genuine Essilor or Zeiss single-vision lenses from about 718,000 VND (≈ US$28) a pair; progressive lenses from about 3,312,000 VND (≈ US$127).
• Time: most single-vision glasses the same day; progressives and special lenses can take longer.
• Prescription: not required – the eye test is free, or we can read your old glasses.
• Where: LB Eyewear, 7-9-11 Truong Dinh, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, open daily 8:30–21:30, English-speaking staff.

How much do glasses cost in Vietnam?

Prices in Saigon range from 280,000 VND for unbranded lenses to tens of millions for premium designs. The biggest difference is the lens brand and whether it is genuine.

Exchange rate used: about 26,000 VND = US$1. Ask on WhatsApp +84 775 025 979 for a quote for your prescription.

Step by step: getting glasses as a tourist

1. Message first (optional). Send your prescription or a photo of your glasses to +84 775 025 979; we confirm price and timing.
2. Eye test. Free, about 15–20 minutes, explained in English. Details in our eye exam vs optician guide.
3. Choose frame and lenses. Ray-Ban, Oakley or our own titanium frames; genuine Zeiss and Essilor lenses.
4. Pay. Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Apple Pay, Google Pay, cash or bank transfer.
5. Collect. Same day for most single-vision glasses, or free delivery anywhere in Vietnam if you are moving on to Da Nang, Hoi An or Hanoi.

Do I need a prescription?

No. Vietnam does not require a prescription to buy glasses. You can have your eyes tested in store, or we can measure your current glasses and copy your glasses without a prescription. If you bring a prescription from home, we will check it against the test – prescriptions can change, especially after a year or two.

How to avoid bad glasses in Vietnam

• Fake brand lenses are the main risk. Genuine Essilor and Zeiss lenses come with a card; learn how to check authentic Zeiss and Essilor lenses.
• Rushed fitting causes headaches. Make sure pupil distance and fitting height are measured, especially for progressives.
• No written price leads to surprises. Get the total before cutting.
• Check before you leave: wear the glasses for a few minutes in store and look at distance and near.

Progressive and reading glasses

Over 40 and need both distance and reading? Progressive lenses are where Vietnam offers the biggest savings compared with Europe, the US or Australia. Read our guide to progressive lenses in Saigon for brands, prices and adaptation time.

FAQ

Is it cheap to get glasses in Vietnam?

Usually yes. Genuine Essilor or Zeiss single-vision lenses start from about 718,000 VND (≈ US$28) per pair at LB Eyewear, and the eye test is free.

How long does it take to get glasses in Vietnam?

Most single-vision glasses are ready the same day. Progressives and special lenses can take longer.

Do I need a prescription to buy glasses in Vietnam?

No. You can get a free eye test in store, or we can read your current glasses.

Can you deliver glasses to another city in Vietnam?

Yes, delivery inside Vietnam is free, so you can order in Saigon and receive them in your next city.

Can I pay with a foreign credit card?

Yes: Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted.