【Objective】 To explore the development of the refractive status and clinical risk factors in premature infants without retinopathy during their first year after birth. 【Methods】 94 medical health premature infants at 6 months of corrected age during January 2008 to March 2010 were selected, and their refractive development to 12 months were tracked up. Refraction was determined at 6 months, 9 months and 12 months old by Suresight Welch. The impact of gestational age and birth weight on refractive status of premature infants were analyzed. 【Results】 High incidence of astigmatism was found on preterm infants, and it declined with the age increasing. At 9 and 12 months old of corrected age, birth weight was an influencing factor of refractive error in premature infants. At 12 months old of corrected age, gestational age was another important influencing factor of refractive error in premature infants. 【Conclusions】 During the first year after birth, refraction of premature infants is changeable. The incidence of ametropia, especially the degree of astigmatism, is decreased with age increasing. Birth weight and gestational age both are important factors which can influence refraction of premature infants.