Do I have to be an American Citizen to become an actor in America

by Isadora
(Mt. Vernon, New York, USA)

QUESTION:

I am 15 years old and really want to be an actor. I have been in 2 local theater shows and have been to acting schools, but the thing that is stopping me from furthering my career is that I'm not an American Citizen. I've goggled this question and have not found an answer. So if you can answer my question it would be great help. Do i have to be an American Citizen to become a professional actor in America?

ANSWER:

Adult actors don't have to be a Citizen as long as they have a green card or a working visa specifically for the field they work in. You can find more information on this issue, including information on training visas from acting schools, by reading my answer to a previous question about non citizen actresses. Also check out these acting tips I gave to a foreign actress.

If you want to work before you reach 18, things may be a little more complicated. In the least, young actors need a work permit and a social security number to work as performers. Check with the NYS Department of Labor. You can find a lot of information on their frequently asked questions page. An e-mail is listed at the bottom of the page. You can use it to ask about your particular situation and whether you can work as a non-citizen and minor.

Hope this helps! If you find out information you think may be useful to others, please use our comment box to add it to this post.

Disclaimer: The above does not constitute legal advice.