Amblyopia results from degradation of the retinal image during a sensitive period of visual development. Amblyopia is the most common cause of visual loss in children. Because of the failure in detection and in treatment, amblyopia is still an important cause of visual loss in adults. Results from recent randomised trials in amblyopia should change our approach to screening and treatment. Based on the current evidence, if a single screening session is used, screening at school entry could be the most efficient screening moment. Between researchers, however, there still exists a lot of controversy on the benefit of visual screening.