Job requirements Cosmetologist in Canada

Find out what you typically need to work as a cosmetologist in Canada. These requirements are applicable to all Estheticians, electrologists and related occupations (NOC 63211).

Employment requirements

This is what you typically need for the job.

  • Completion of high school, college or beauty school programs for cosmeticians, estheticians, electrologists, manicurists and pedicurists is required or on-the-job training is provided.
  • Electrologists usually require certification from an electrologist's educational or training institution.
  • Membership in a provincial or national electrolysis association may be required.
  • Completion of a registered dermal therapy program may be required to provide electrology laser and vascular treatments.
  • Estheticians usually require certification from an esthetician's educational or training institution.
  • Apprenticeship for electrologists, estheticians and nail technicians is available in Manitoba. Trade certification for these occupations is compulsory in that province.
  • A business licence is required for workers in this group who are owners/operators of businesses offering these services.
  • Practitioners offering these personal services are required to adhere to infection control procedures.

Source National Occupational Classification

Professional certification and licensing

You might need to get a certification from a regulatory authority before you start working. Find out if this occupation is regulated and contact the regulatory authority to learn about the certification process.

Manitoba

Job title Electrologist
Regulated
Regulatory body: Apprenticeship Manitoba
Job title Esthetician (Nail Technician & Skin Technician)
Regulated
Regulatory body: Apprenticeship Manitoba

New Brunswick

Job title Cosmetologist
Regulated

Saskatchewan

Job title Esthetician (skin Care Technician)
Regulated
Job title Esthetician (nail Technician)
Regulated

Source Foreign Credential Recognition Program - ESDC

Do you want to work in another province or territory?

If you are already certified to work in a regulated occupation in your province or territory, it will be easier for you to have your certification recognized in another province or territory. See the Workers Mobility's website to learn more.

Labour Market Information Survey
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