AIM AND OBJECTIVES: To determine the magnitude and causes of visual impairment and their psychosocial implications among destitutes in Onitsha metropolis, Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey. One hundred and sixty eight destitutes in 10 locations (clusters) were interviewed using a pre-tested questionnaires. Ocular examination included visual acuity measurement, anterior segment examination, direct ophthalmoscopy, tonometry and refraction. Focus group discussion was also conducted. Data from the study was coded and analyzed by the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, Version 16.