Hello there, my name is Bianca and I am Head of Casting at Casting Ireland. I also head up Brand Management for our sister company, The Production People. Coming from Mexico City, I came up against all the challenges that non-EEA migrants need to overcome to live and work on this beautiful island. So, believe me, I know exactly how you feel!
I’m sure all of us who decided to move to Ireland were, at one point, asking the same question: “Once I’m there, how easy is it to get a job?!”
To answer some of your questions about working in Ireland as an international Actor, Model, or Extra, I’ve gathered the key information to help you start your new adventure. Let’s begin!
As non-EEA, you will need to take an English course, or an advanced education course, to be eligible for a part-time working visa. Your visa will have different constraints depending on the course you take. Some visa types can be renewed more easily and for longer periods than others.
Going through the visa process is always tricky. You’ll have many questions, but don’t worry! You will find all the information you need to apply for your visa on the Irish Immigration Service website.
Once you have your IRP card (a.k.a. visa), the next step is to get a PPS number. For any job in Ireland where you are going to be paid via bank transfer (such as being an Extra), it is necessary to have a PPS number. This is your tax number, which you will also need to avail of some healthcare services. It’s very important to have it as soon as you get your visa sorted.
Ok, I have my visa and PPSN… Now what?
Now it’s time to start the job hunt! As a non-EEA, you are allowed to work part-time (20 hours per week). There are some exceptions, such as the Christmas season or other stretches of time off from schooling. During these periods, you can legally work full-time.
Whenever you need to make some extra money, perhaps consider working as an Extra. The film and TV industries in Ireland have exploded over the last few years, so there are many opportunities available. You can be an Extra in films, TV series, documentaries, ads, music videos, corporate videos, and so much more!
The first step is to join an agency like ours, Casting Ireland. We will invite you to fill out a registration form with all your details, e.g., gender, nationality, body measurements, as well as any additional skills you may have, like playing an instrument, speaking several languages, speaking with accents, or proficiency in a particular sport.
The more specific you are about your abilities, the better! Sometimes we need an Extra that can speak in a Liverpool accent and/or knows how to drive a bus… so don’t underestimate yourself and your abilities!
At Casting Ireland, we help you curate your Acting CV and profile. Due to our years of experience, we know what Producers are looking for. So rest assured, you’re in good hands.
Is there any other material I need, aside from my CV?
Yes, as an Extra it is very important to have good pictures of yourself. And they must be recent.
If you want to learn more about how to take and select the best pictures for your profile, check out our Top 5 Headshot Tips post.
In addition, if you have worked as an Actor, Model or Extra in your home country and have a showreel, do not hesitate to add this to your profile. If a Director can see you in action, you may have a better chance of being hired! The more prepared you are, the better.
If you have no previous experience, that is no problem at all! Many of our Extras started with no experience whatsoever and they have been hired on some wonderful projects! We all need to start somewhere, don’t we?
I created my profile and it looks great… When will I start working?
There is no rule of thumb in how long it will take to book a job. It is all a matter of time and availability. Some of our Extras get work on the same week they register, while it can take a bit longer for others. It all comes down to whether or not you fit the brief from the Director and Production Company.
If you fit the bill, we’ll send an Availability Check, detailing the role and the fee involved. If you are available to work and interested in the job, we will pass your details on to our client. This is not a job offer, we’re just checking if you’d be free were you to be selected. If the client wants to book, you we will confirm via email. And there you have it – you’ve now booked your first gig as an Extra!
At Casting Ireland, we always aim to take care of you. The wellbeing of our Talent is our top priority. So, before the shoot we will send you all the details you need (call time, location, wardrobe guidelines) and will be on hand to answer any questions you may have!
To Conclude…
We hope you feel better equipped to start your acting journey with Casting Ireland. Check out our Resources page for further blog posts and FAQs. These are designed to help you learn more about the industry and how Casting Ireland operates.
If you have any questions, please get in touch with us. We are always happy to help!
*************************************************************************
If you’re in need of Extras, Actors, or Models for your next Creative or Commercial Project, get in touch. We’d love to help. Simply email info@castingireland.ie or call us on (01) 634 3112.
