Spas, or any massage parlours providing massage services in an establishment, must apply for a “Massage Establishment License” from the Singapore Police Force.
What is a massage establishment?
Under the Massage Establishments (ME) Act, a ME licence is required if any premises is used or intended to be used for the reception or treatment of persons seeking massage, unless otherwise exempted. Massage is defined as the act of rubbing, kneading, or manipulating the human body or any part of it, by any person (whether or not using any hand-held equipment), for the purpose of relaxing muscle tension, stimulating circulation, increasing suppleness or otherwise.
Want to learn more? Check out the Massage Establishments Act here.
Are there any exemptions?
Yes! The following premises that are licensed under the Private Hospitals and Medical Clinics Act (Cap. 248) are exempt from the provisions of the Act:
| (a) | a clinical laboratory; |
| (b) | a hospital; |
| (c) | a maternity home; |
| (d) | a medical clinic; |
| (e) | a nursing home. |
Want to learn more? Check out the Massage Establishments (Exemption) Order here.
What other rules must a massage establishment follow?
Everything you need to know about renovating your massage parlour, to the uniform your staffs need to wear, are regulated. Do check the Massage Establishments Rules for more details.
How do I apply for a massage establishment license?
You may apply online at gobusiness and search for “Massage” to find the list of applicable licenses.
Confused and overwhelmed by all the information? Do you have a summary of the requirements?
You may download the summary Massage Establishments Regulatory Framework for an overview of the requirements.
Still confused and need more help? Contact Vaniday for our beauty and wellness business setup consultancy services today. Email us at contact@vaniday.com.sg for more details!
