32201
Massage therapists
- Express Entry skill level
- Yes
- Regulated in Québec
- No
- In demand in Manitoba
- Yes
Classification
Health
3 › 32 › 322 › 3220
Definition
Massage therapists assess soft tissues and joints of the body for treatment and prevention of dysfunction, injury, pain and physical disorders. They work in private practice, including group or team practices, hospitals, clinics, extended care facilities, rehabilitation centres and educational institutions.
Main duties
- This group performs some or all of the following duties:
- Assess clients by conducting range of motion and muscle tests and propose treatment plans
- Explain procedures, risks and benefits to clients
- Administer massage techniques, treating soft tissues and joints of the body through soft tissue manipulation, relaxation techniques, hydrotherapy, trigger point therapy, joint pain and lower grade mobilizations, remedial exercise programs and client self-help programs
- Suggest home care instructions and provide information about techniques for further postural improvement and stretching, strengthening, relaxation and rehabilitative exercises
- Maintain records of treatments given
- May consult with other health care professionals such as physiotherapists, chiropractors, physicians and psychologists when developing treatment plans for clients.
- Massage therapists may be trained in various specialized massage techniques.
Example job titles
- •massage therapist (MT)
- •registered massage practitioner
- •registered massage therapist (RMT)
Overview
Under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system, massage therapists are classified under NOC code 32201. This occupation falls under TEER 2, making skilled professionals in this field eligible for key Canadian immigration pathways, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program managed through the Express Entry system, as well as various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Massage therapists assess soft tissues and joints of the body to treat and prevent physical dysfunction, injury, and pain through manual manipulation, mobilization, and massage techniques.
To qualify for immigration and practice in Canada, candidates typically must complete an eighteen- to thirty-six-month program in massage therapy from an accredited school, along with a period of supervised practical training. It is critical to note that massage therapy is a regulated profession in several Canadian provinces, including Ontario, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island. Registration with the appropriate provincial regulatory body is mandatory to practice in these jurisdictions.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional immigration advice. For specific legal guidance, please consult a regulated Canadian immigration consultant or lawyer.
Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.
Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.