Raynor Naturopathic Massage

Reflexology & Foot Massage Regulations in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Reflexology & Foot Massage Regulations in the U.S. Virgin Islands


1. Territory Overview of Reflexology

  • In the U.S. Virgin Islands, reflexology is regulated as a modality of massage therapy under DPHSS and the Department of Licensing, Consumer Affairs & Commerce (DLCA). There is no separate reflexology license—all reflexology services must be performed by a licensed massage therapist doh.vi.gov.


2. U.S. Virgin Islands Massage Therapist Licensing

To legally provide reflexology or any soft-tissue foot-massage services in the U.S. Virgin Islands, you must obtain a Massage Therapist license:

Requirement Details
Education Minimum 500 hours of class work at a recognized massage school
HIV/STD Training Completion of at least 3 hours of approved HIV/STD/AIDS training
Health Clearance Health clearance letter signed by the Commissioner of Health to DLCA
Background Check & Registration Register with DPHSS; license issued via DLCA, including criminal-history checks and fingerprinting as required
Business & Health Permits Massage businesses must obtain an annual Health Permit from DPHSS Environmental Health Division and a DLCA business license
Continuing Education & Renewal Renew annually with proof of meeting DPHSS and DLCA requirements

Detailed Requirements →
https://doh.vi.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Massage-Therapy-Requirements-2023.pdf doh.vi.gov


3. Reflexology vs. Massage Therapy

  • Reflexology: Targeted pressure techniques on the feet, hands, or ears—but under USVI law, this is always performed as part of licensed massage therapy.

  • Massage Therapy: Broad soft-tissue manipulation, including reflexology techniques—requires the same Massage Therapist license.

There is no exemption for reflexology-only practice in the U.S. Virgin Islands.


4. Local Business & Health-Department Permits

Beyond territory licensure, all establishments must also secure:

  • A DLCA Business License (all health-related services)

  • An Annual Health Permit from the DPHSS Environmental Health Division, including routine inspections

  • Zoning and occupancy approval from your municipal government (e.g., St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John)

Tip: Verify local requirements with DLCA and DPHSS before launching your practice.


5. Frequently Asked Questions

Q5. Can I practice foot reflexology without a massage license in the U.S. Virgin Islands?

A: No—U.S. Virgin Islands law classifies reflexology as massage therapy. A current Massage Therapist license is mandatory abmp.com.

Q6. What training is required for reflexology?

A: You must complete a full 500-hour massage-therapy education program plus 3 hours of HIV/STD training as part of your licensing requirements doh.vi.gov.


6. Raynor® Reflexology Guidance

  • Raynor-trained reflexologists must first secure their U.S. Virgin Islands Massage Therapist license—then apply our specialized reflexology techniques for superior client outcomes.

  • To clearly communicate your expertise, advertise:

    “Certified Raynor Reflexology – Performed by Licensed Massage Therapist, U.S. Virgin Islands.”

Explore Raynor Courses →
https://www.raynormassage.com/courses/


7. Read Our Testimonials

Read more success stories →
https://www.raynormassage.com/testimonials


8. Quick Reference Table

Service Type Territory License Required? Local Permit Often Required?
Reflexology (any modality) Yes (Massage Therapist license) Yes (business & health-dept permit)
Massage Therapy (all modalities) Yes Yes
Raynor Reflexologists Yes Yes

9. Resources & Links

Disclaimer: Regulations and local ordinances evolve—always verify current requirements with the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Health and DLCA before opening or advertising your practice