Hi all,
I'm an American who recently went up to Vancouver on the 6 month BUNAC exchange program on a open work permit, on which I worked as a background film performer (AKA extra) for a background agency. During that time, I was upgraded from an extra to actor on a film and received my first film credit.
Before my permit expired, I applied for an extension. After my permit expired, the extension was refused due to not submitting a LMO (big mistake on my part, I realize). Since I could not legally work, I have returned to the States, but my agents said that they will do anything to have me back because I have established a good relationship with them and will be bringing in more money due to my receiving the credit.
I am a little lost as to what application I should apply with. While I have work experience in Canada, it was less than one year. Also, guidelines for film industry occupations are very muddled from what I have read. I worked full-time hours as a background performer (40+ hours a week, five days a week) but have received a mixed bag of answers as to whether background is considered a 'real' job or an matter of self-employment. Some say that since background performers have full-time hours, can earn up to 40,000+ a year in it, and file taxes for it, it's considered a real full-time job. However, since background people technically 'employ' their agents, they're seen as self-employed.
I could use whatever help I can get. I am anxious to return to Vancouver because of my success there and, more bluntly, returning to the fantastic pay I was making (especially as a 22 year old recent college graduate!)
Timeline for Clarity
May 2010 - Arrived in Vancouver with BUNAC work permit
October 2010 - Applied for Extension
November 2010- Permit Expired
December 2010- Extension application refused
February 5 2011 - Returned to the United States
Thank you!
Immigration Forum
