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Home » Blog » Do I need a green card to be a paid extra in film productions in the United States?

Do I need a green card to be a paid extra in film productions in the United States?

Question by R: Do I need a green card to be a paid extra in film productions in the United States?
I’m a 16-year-old Canadian citizen, currently I’m on an H1B visa and my dad is on an H-4.

I’m wondering if I can legally work as a paid extra in a movie being filmed in my town? I’m hoping to make a bit of extra money (har har) this summer. Is there any law regarding this or does it just depend on the production company?
My bad, I meant I’m on an H-4.

Best answer:

Answer by J
You seem confused. Your dad is probably the one on H1B (work visa) and you’re the one on H4 (dependent visa). Legally, you’re not allowed to work and not eligible to get a social security number either, something that employers would ask for. However, I’ve known other H4 holders who have done little side jobs like babysitting, cleaning the pool, mowing the lawn for family friends etc and have gotten paid in cash (under the table) for it. It’s illegal so I’m not saying it’s okay, I’m just saying that a lot of people get paid under the table (even Americans) for little side jobs here and there, so that’s up to you and up to the production company as well.

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Filed Under: The Filmmakers World Tagged With: Minor Actor/Model Release

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