Optical Registration Board

Important Information for Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians

The Optical Registration Board at CORU was appointed by the Minister for Health in February 2015.

On 31 October 2015 persons previously registered with The Opticians Board/Bord na Radharcmhastóirí saw their registration transfer automatically to the Optical Registration Board at CORU.

Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians recognised by the General Optical Council in the UK (or by the Competent Authority in other EU Member States).

Under the Health and Social Care Professionals Act 2005 (as amended), the Optical Registration Board of CORU can only review and approve qualifications for Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians that are awarded in this State.

CORU is also the Competent Authority in Ireland for the recognition of qualifications for Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians which were awarded in another EU Member State or within the European Economic Area. This function was transferred to CORU from the Opticians Board on 31 October 2015.

It is understood that previous arrangements under the Opticians Board permitted for Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians who were recognised by the General Optical Council to apply directly to the Opticians Board for registration. CORU does not have any legal entitlement to continue this arrangement. 

Any Optometrist or Dispensing Optician who has completed his/her professional qualifications outside of Ireland must first apply for the recognition of his/her qualifications prior to applying for registration. Such persons should be eligible to practice as an Optometrist or Dispensing Optician in the Member State where they completed their qualifications.

If you have any queries, please email info@coru.ie