What is the difference between wellness and medical massage?

The Gewerbemassage covers wellness/relaxation massage. Medical massage (Heilmassage) requires additional healthcare qualifications.

Can I work in hotels with a massage license?

Yes, hotel spa partnerships are a popular and stable revenue channel for massage therapists.

English

GewO §94 Z.43 Verified: April 2026

Type: Regulated trade
Qualification: Qualification exam — 5 modules
Cost: Free registration, exam fees covered by government
Mobile massage: Possible (specify location at registration)
NOT the same as: Physiotherapy or medical massage (health professions, not trades)

Commercial Massage vs. Medical Massage

Commercial massage (§94 Z.43 GewO) = regulated trade. Covers: classic, sports, wellness, aromatherapy massage.
Medical massage (Heilmassage) = health profession under separate law (MMHmG). NOT a trade.
Physiotherapy = health profession. NOT a trade.

As a commercial massage therapist, you may NOT diagnose, treat medical conditions, or call yourself a physiotherapist.

Translation Status: UNOFFICIAL Legally binding is exclusively the German text.