How to verify a modelling or acting casting in Ireland (and Malta): contracts, scams, data protection and a 20‑point due‑diligence checklist

How to verify a modelling or acting casting in Ireland (and Malta): contracts, scams, data protection and a 20‑point due‑diligence checklist

This definitive, operational guide explains how performers and their representatives should verify modelling and acting castings in two adjacent but different markets: Ireland (with a focus on Dublin production practices) and Malta (with its internationally oriented studio and rebate market). It is written for working performers, agents, casting assistants and parents of child performers. You will find step‑by‑step workflows, decision tables, a 20‑point checklist you can use before you accept any booking, sample emails and self‑tape briefs, negotiation scenarios, common mistakes and a practical FAQ.

Scope and sources

The guidance in this article is based on current, authoritative local sources: producers and funding guidance from Screen Ireland; union and contract checklists from Equity (UK & Ireland) for performers; Ireland’s employment rules and the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC); Revenue guidance on Film Withholding Tax; the Irish Data Protection Commission’s case studies and guidance on photographs and recordings; Malta’s national film authority (Screen Malta / Malta Film Commission) for production practice and incentives; and the Malta Information and Data Protection Commissioner (IDPC) for GDPR practice in Malta. Where I make pragmatic or contextual estimates (for example, likely response times from small production companies), I label them as estimates.

Key authoritative sources used in this article: Screen Ireland, Equity (UK & Ireland), Data Protection Commission (Ireland), Workplace Relations Commission (Ireland), Revenue (Ireland), Screen Malta (Malta Film Commission) and the Malta Office of the Information and Data Protection Commissioner. See the Sources and verification section for full citations and access dates. ([screenireland.ie](https://www.screenireland.ie/filming/visas-working-permits?utm_source=openai))

Why you must verify a casting

Accepting a casting without verification exposes performers to four main risks:

1. Contractual risk: ambiguous or one‑sided terms (buy‑outs, global perpetual rights, unpaid "portfolio" work). Equity and local union guidance emphasise checking pay, residuals and EPS/PRSA entitlements where relevant. ([equity.org.uk](https://www.equity.org.uk/advice-and-support/know-your-rights/working-in-ireland?utm_source=openai))
2. Financial/tax risk: incorrect tax treatment, including Film Withholding Tax for non‑EEA performers engaged by qualifying Irish productions. Producers in Ireland may be required to withhold 20% under the Film Withholding Tax rules — this must be known before you invoice. ([revenue.ie](https://www.revenue.ie/en/companies-and-charities/reliefs-and-exemptions/film-relief/film-withholding-tax.aspx?utm_source=openai))
3. Privacy and data risk: excessive collection of identity documents, ID photos or sensitive data without lawful basis under GDPR; misuse of images; inadequate retention/security. The Irish Data Protection Commission has ruled on unauthorised use of photographs and on consent issues for children. ([dataprotection.ie](https://dataprotection.ie/en/dpc-guidance/case-studies/objection-to-processing/unauthorised-publication-photograph-amicable-resolution?utm_source=openai))
4. Fraud & scams: fake casting calls, phishing, requests to pay upfront fees, or identity‑harvesting operations posing as legitimate productions. National law enforcement and consumer authorities in Ireland (Gardaí and CCPC) publish warnings and advice on employment and recruitment scams. ([garda.ie](https://www.garda.ie/en/crime/fraud/am-i-a-victim-of-a-romance-scam-.html?utm_source=openai))

Key market distinctions: Dublin/Irish production vs Malta's international market

Understanding market structure changes how you verify an opportunity.

Dublin and the Irish production market

Dublin is a domestic production hub with strong national funding via Screen Ireland and significant inward international production. Local contracts may treat performers as employees (PAYE) or as self‑employed contractors depending on control and contractual terms; Irish employment law requires written notice of core terms early in a hire. Equity monitors producers operating UK/Irish union agreements and warns about “PACT‑equivalent” wording — always review for a named collective or clear binding agreement. ([workplacerelations.ie](https://www.workplacerelations.ie/en/what_you_should_know/coming_to_work_in_ireland/foreign-nationals-on-irish-fishing-vessels/?utm_source=openai))

Malta's internationally‑facing market

Malta (Screen Malta) actively markets a 40% cash rebate and hosts international shoots and studio work; many casting exercises are run by international casting agencies or production companies contracting through Malta’s national authority. Non‑EEA cast/crew will usually require correct immigration/work permissions (Single Permits or equivalent) and producers often expect to supply host letters and contracting paperwork. Use Malta Film Commission / Screen Malta information to validate production status and rebate eligibility when the shoot claims a national incentive. ([maltafilmcommission.com](https://maltafilmcommission.com/))

Contracts, written terms and what to check first

Contracts for models and actors vary by sector (commercial modelling, editorial, feature film, TV drama, photography, advertising). The following describes what to expect and what to check immediately.

Core written terms you must get (Ireland legal minimums)

Under Irish employment regulation practice, an employer must provide a written statement of core terms early in the engagement (a Day‑5 statement for employees and a fuller statement within one month where employment applies). For performers, core terms should include:

• Employer/Company legal name and address. ([workplacerelations.ie](https://www.workplacerelations.ie/en/what_you_should_know/coming_to_work_in_ireland/foreign-nationals-on-irish-fishing-vessels/?utm_source=openai))
• Role description, dates or duration (start/end or number of days), location.
• Gross fee and payment schedule; who makes tax deductions; whether PAYE applies or the engager will treat you as self‑employed.
• Hours/daily call times, overtime rules or daily maximums, and reasonable rest breaks.
• Intellectual property and image‑use clauses (clearly list permitted uses — editorial, advertising, social, broadcast, streaming, international territories, duration). If a perpetual worldwide buy‑out is offered, consider negotiation or legal advice.

If the engager is a qualifying Irish production claiming Screen Ireland/section‑481 tax status, ask whether Film Withholding Tax will apply to non‑EEA nationals and request the FWT certificate or explanation; Revenue guidance sets out the operation of FWT. ([revenue.ie](https://www.revenue.ie/en/companies-and-charities/reliefs-and-exemptions/film-relief/film-withholding-tax.aspx?utm_source=openai))

Model releases, audio/video releases and data protection

Model and appearance releases are common. However, releases do not override data protection law in EU/EEA jurisdictions. The Irish DPC has emphasised that consent must be informed and that use cases (promotional brochure, online advertising, stock licensing, distribution territories) must be made clear to parents in the case of children. Controllers processing images must be able to demonstrate a lawful basis and meet transparency and retention rules. For Malta, the IDPC provides matching GDPR supervision and guidance for organisations. ([dataprotection.ie](https://dataprotection.ie/en/dpc-guidance/blogs/taking-photos-school-events-where-common-sense-comes-play?utm_source=openai))

Scams, red flags and safe first responses

Casting scams are common. Below are the usual red flags and immediate steps to protect yourself.

Common red flags

• Upfront payment requests: any request to pay to audition, to buy a contract, or to pay "processing" is a clear red flag—legitimate casting does not charge the performer. Report immediately. ([garda.ie](https://www.garda.ie/en/crime/fraud/am-i-a-victim-of-a-romance-scam-.html?utm_source=openai))
• Generic email addresses only (no company domain), poor site/contract grammar, or a domain that is recently registered or anonymised.
• High‑pressure tactics: requests to move off platform, to provide ID scans immediately, to transfer money or to accept a non‑negotiable perpetual release quickly.
• Excessive ID requests: do not send full copies of passports or bank details before verifying the production. For GDPR reasons, ask why each piece of data is needed and whether secure upload is available. ([dataprotection.ie](https://dataprotection.ie/en/dpc-guidance/blogs/taking-photos-school-events-where-common-sense-comes-play?utm_source=openai))
• Invitation to a paid "training" or "casting course" as a condition of the role — treat as suspect and ask written confirmation from a named production representative before engaging.

Safe first responses (workflow)

1. Ask for the production company’s legal name, company number and a named producer or line producer. Verify the company number in Ireland via the Companies Registration Office (CRO) or in Malta with the Malta Business Registry (MBR). (Estimate: verification can usually be completed within 30–60 minutes for established companies.)
2. Request a written offer or call sheet containing rates, hours, location, and payment date. Do not accept oral assurances alone.
3. Search for the production on Screen Ireland, Screen Malta or on union bulletins; if a production claims national incentive or rebate involvement (e.g., S481 in Ireland or Malta’s cash rebate), ask for confirmation and verify via the relevant film body. ([screenireland.ie](https://www.screenireland.ie/filming/visas-working-permits?utm_source=openai))
4. Contact Equity (or your local performers’ union) for contract checks if the fee or terms look unusual; Equity publishes contract checklists and offers to review contracts. ([equity.org.uk](https://www.equity.org.uk/advice-and-support/know-your-rights/professionally-made-professionally-paid/contract-checklist?utm_source=openai))
5. If you suspect a scam, report it to An Garda Síochána (Ireland) or to the relevant local police force and to consumer protection authorities (CCPC in Ireland). Do not send money or copies of identity documents until you have verified the company. ([garda.ie](https://www.garda.ie/en/crime/fraud/am-i-a-victim-of-a-romance-scam-.html?utm_source=openai))

A 20‑point due‑diligence checklist (use this before accepting any casting)

1. Request the written offer or call sheet and save it.
2. Confirm the engager’s legal company name and company registration number (CRO in Ireland; MBR in Malta) and screenshot the registry result.
3. Find a named producer/line producer and verify on LinkedIn or via Screen Ireland / Screen Malta listings. ([screenireland.ie](https://www.screenireland.ie/filming/visas-working-permits?utm_source=openai))
4. Check whether the production claims government incentive (Ireland S481, Malta rebate) and verify with the film commission if necessary. ([revenue.ie](https://www.revenue.ie/en/companies-and-charities/reliefs-and-exemptions/film-relief/index.aspx?utm_source=openai))
5. Confirm fee, currency, payment schedule and whether PAYE or self‑employed status applies; ask who pays taxes. (In Ireland ask about Film Withholding Tax for non‑EEA artists.) ([revenue.ie](https://www.revenue.ie/en/companies-and-charities/reliefs-and-exemptions/film-relief/film-withholding-tax.aspx?utm_source=openai))
6. Get explicit details on territory and duration for image/video use (territory, duration, media, exclusivity).
7. If minors are involved, require parental consent forms and a named child‑welfare contact on set; confirm Garda vetting (Ireland) or equivalent local checks for those working with children. (Estimate: local vetting turnaround is variable.)
8. Check for a valid insurance policy covering public liability and personal injury for performers on the shoot.
9. Ask whether an Equity (or local union) agreement applies or whether producer uses a different standard; request any collective agreement references in writing. ([equity.org.uk](https://www.equity.org.uk/advice-and-support/know-your-rights/working-in-ireland?utm_source=openai))
10. Verify workplace health & safety protocols (COVID‑era matters may still be relevant), first‑aid and emergency contact procedure.
11. Require secure file transfer for any ID documents; never send passport photos or bank details by unsecured email or social chat. Ask for a data controller contact and privacy notice. ([dataprotection.ie](https://dataprotection.ie/en/dpc-guidance/blogs/taking-photos-school-events-where-common-sense-comes-play?utm_source=openai))
12. Check travel, accommodation or per diem policy and who pays for them (and whether they are taxable). If producing in Malta, ask about work permit support for non‑EEA nationals. ([maltafilmcommission.com](https://maltafilmcommission.com/))
13. Confirm payment method (company cheque, bank transfer), currency and timeline for payment after wrap.
14. Request a model/appearance release draft to review; ensure it specifies permitted uses and that length of use is limited or negotiated if needed.
15. Ask for a payment reference number and a sample payslip or certificate if PAYE is being used (Ireland). ([workplacerelations.ie](https://www.workplacerelations.ie/en/what_you_should_know/coming_to_work_in_ireland/foreign-nationals-on-irish-fishing-vessels/?utm_source=openai))
16. For international productions, ask who will operate payroll, and whether tax withholding will be passed through a local payroll agent — get the agent’s contact details.
17. Search social and industry references; contact other performers listed on the production or the casting agency for quick references (be discreet and professional).
18. Beware of “no‑pay portfolio” shoots masquerading as commercial jobs; insist on written terms even for spec shoots.
19. Retain all correspondence and sign only when the contract reflects the agreed written terms.
20. Keep a copy of any signed release and a dated signed call sheet; if you later want to enforce removal or limits on use, the signed paperwork is your primary evidence.

Decision tables and workflows

Below are two practical decision aids — one quick decision table for whether to proceed with an unvetted casting and a short workflow to follow if a casting asks for ID or payment.

If a casting asks for ID or payment — step‑by‑step workflow

1. Ask why the ID is needed, for what lawful purpose, who will be the data controller, and request their privacy notice explaining retention. If no privacy notice, refuse until provided. ([dataprotection.ie](https://dataprotection.ie/en/dpc-guidance/blogs/taking-photos-school-events-where-common-sense-comes-play?utm_source=openai))
2. Insist on secure upload (company portal, encrypted transfer) — do not email passports or bank details. If they insist on messaging apps, treat as a red flag.
3. If asked to pay — insist on a written invoice from a named company trading address. Legitimate production companies invoice the performer only where there is an agreed commercial arrangement; they do not charge for audition access.
4. If the company presses, contact your union (Equity) and local authorities; keep all communications. ([equity.org.uk](https://www.equity.org.uk/advice-and-support/know-your-rights/professionally-made-professionally-paid/contract-checklist?utm_source=openai))

Common contract clauses explained (what to accept, what to negotiate)

Below are the most disputed clauses and pragmatic drafting notes.

Rights granted / buy‑outs

Problem: a single clause granting “perpetual, irrevocable worldwide rights for all uses”. Practical approach: narrow territory (e.g., Ireland only for 2 years; or EU + broadcast for X years) and specify media. Negotiate remuneration for wider rights or seek a time‑limited licence instead of a full assignment.

Residuals, secondary payments and metadata

For feature/TV work with potential reuse, ask how secondary payments are handled and whether distribution revenues trigger additional payments. Equity distributes some secondary payment streams — check whether a union contract covers the production. ([equity.org.uk](https://www.equity.org.uk/advice-and-support/secondary-payments/distributing-secondary-payments?utm_source=openai))

Cancellation, travel and force majeure

Ensure cancellation periods and minimum payment guarantees are clear (per‑day fee if booking cancelled with less than 24/48 hours). For international shoots, clarify who pays for accommodation and what happens if a visa/work permit is delayed.

Operational tools: email and self‑tape templates

Use these templates when you need to verify or request missing information. Replace placeholders with your details.

Template: initial verification email to casting/producer

Subject: Request for Written Offer and Company Details — [Production Title] / [Role]

Hello [Producer/Casting Contact],

Thank you for the invitation to audition for [role] on [production title]. Before I proceed, please could you send the following in writing:

1. The legal company name and company registration number for the engager.
2. A copy of the written call sheet/brief and the fee (gross) in [EUR/GBP/USD], with the proposed payment schedule.
3. The contact details for the line producer or production accountant who handles talent payments.
4. A copy of the proposed model/appearance release and the privacy notice describing how my personal data will be processed and retained.
5. Confirmation whether this production claims any national incentive (S481 in Ireland / Malta rebate) and whether Film Withholding Tax will be applied to non‑EEA performers.

I prefer secure upload for any ID documents. Please note I will not provide passport scans or bank details by unsecured email until my engagement has been verified in writing.

Kind regards,
[Your name]
[Agent (if any)]
[Contact number]
  

Template: self‑tape brief to talent from casting (example for producers)

Subject: Self‑tape brief — [Production Title] — [Role]

Please record a self‑tape using the following instructions and submit to our secure portal at [portal link]. If you cannot access the portal, please contact [casting contact & phone].

1. Camera: Smartphone or camera in landscape; moderate distance that frames from mid‑chest to head.
2. Sound: Use earbuds or external mic if available. Minimise background noise.
3. Slate: Full name, height, location and availability.
4. Reads: Scene 1 (attached) — one cold read (no rehearsal) then one performed take.
5. Time limit: maximum 2 minutes per take. File naming: SURNAME_FIRSTNAME_SCENE1_TAKE1.mp4
6. Deadline: [date & time] — state time zone.
7. Privacy: We will only use your tape for casting selection. Please do not upload ID documents to the tape link.

Thank you for taking the time to record this; we will confirm receipt.
  

Negotiation scenarios and tactical phrases

Below are three short, real‑world negotiation scenarios with practical language you or your agent can use.

Scenario A — Buy‑out request for social usage only

Producer requests a perpetual worldwide buy‑out. Counter: "We are willing to grant non‑exclusive social media use limited to the campaign duration (12 months) in ROI/UK/EU for an additional fee of €X, and we are open to discuss an extension after that period." This turns a perpetual demand into a short, priced licence.

Scenario B — Casting requests photos of a child and blanket consent

Request a child‑specific release that names the production and the exact uses, and asks for parental/guardian signature. Also request the production appoint a named child welfare officer and confirm Garda vetting of staff working directly with the child. If the production refuses, do not proceed. The Irish Data Protection Commission has emphasised the need for adequate information for consent where children are involved. ([dataprotection.ie](https://dataprotection.ie/en/dpc-guidance/case-studies/transparency/reliance-consent-use-childs-photograph-form-promotional-material-state-agency?utm_source=openai))

Scenario C — Malta international shoot and non‑EEA performer

If you are non‑EEA and a production in Malta invites you, request the host letter and confirmation of who will apply for the Single Permit or provide work permit arrangements. Producers working in Malta routinely handle permits but you should confirm in writing who pays for any processing and travel delays. Use Screen Malta resources to check production status. ([maltafilmcommission.com](https://maltafilmcommission.com/))

Mistakes performers commonly make

• Relying on verbal promises without written confirmation (fees, usage, travel). Always get a call sheet or written offer.
• Sending passport scans or bank details over WhatsApp or unsecured email before verification.
• Signing perpetual global releases for low or unpaid jobs — always negotiate time, territory or additional fee.
• Accepting a job that asks you to recruit other performers or act as a middle‑man (a frequent sign of laundering or a scam).
• Not consulting your union for non‑standard or buy‑out terms; the union may have a template or further protections. ([equity.org.uk](https://www.equity.org.uk/advice-and-support/know-your-rights/professionally-made-professionally-paid/contract-checklist?utm_source=openai))

Glossary (practical definitions)

Day‑5 statement

The short written statement of core employment terms an employer must give to a worker within five days of starting work in Ireland (or within the statutory timelines). See WRC guidance. ([workplacerelations.ie](https://www.workplacerelations.ie/en/what_you_should_know/coming_to_work_in_ireland/foreign-nationals-on-irish-fishing-vessels/?utm_source=openai))

Film Withholding Tax (FWT)

A withholding tax applied by qualifying Irish production companies to payments made to non‑resident artistes from outside the EU/EEA; rate guidance and filing obligations are set by Revenue. ([revenue.ie](https://www.revenue.ie/en/companies-and-charities/reliefs-and-exemptions/film-relief/film-withholding-tax.aspx?utm_source=openai))

Model release

A contract where the subject grants permission for their image/appearance to be used for specified purposes (commercial or editorial). It does not remove data protection obligations under GDPR.

Data controller

The entity that determines the purposes and means of processing personal data (under GDPR/GDPR‑equivalent law). The data controller must provide a privacy notice and meet legal obligations. ([dataprotection.ie](https://dataprotection.ie/en/dpc-guidance/blogs/taking-photos-school-events-where-common-sense-comes-play?utm_source=openai))

Screen Malta (Malta Film Commission)

Malta’s national screen agency for productions and incentives; used by international producers and a public verification point in Malta. ([maltafilmcommission.com](https://maltafilmcommission.com/))

FAQ — short answers to common questions

Q: A casting asks me to pay to secure a role. Should I pay?

A: No. Legitimate castings do not require payment from performers. Treat any request for money as a likely scam and report. Contact your union and local police if you paid and suspect fraud. ([garda.ie](https://www.garda.ie/en/crime/fraud/am-i-a-victim-of-a-romance-scam-.html?utm_source=openai))

Q: The casting asks for a passport scan. Is that normal?

A: It can be normal late in the contracting process (for payroll or visa/permit purposes), but you should never send passport scans before you have verified the company, received a written offer and have confirmation of secure transfer and a named data controller. The DPC guidance stresses the need for clarity and lawful basis when processing images/IDs. ([dataprotection.ie](https://dataprotection.ie/en/dpc-guidance/blogs/taking-photos-school-events-where-common-sense-comes-play?utm_source=openai))

Q: How long after wrap should I normally be paid?

A: Payment terms vary by production. Small‑budget shoots sometimes pay within 14–30 days; larger producers may have 30–60 day payment cycles. Always have payment due dates in your contract and an agreed method (BACS/SEPA/cheque). (Estimate: in Dublin commercial day rates are usually paid within 14–30 days; for feature work, payment windows can extend to 30–60 days.)

Q: Do I get paid if my clip is reused online or in advertising later?

A: Only if your contract or a union agreement reserves secondary payments or residuals. Otherwise a signed broad release may allow reuse without extra pay. Equity and union agreements set minimums for certain uses — check whether the production is under an equity collective agreement. ([equity.org.uk](https://www.equity.org.uk/advice-and-support/secondary-payments/distributing-secondary-payments?utm_source=openai))

Practical templates and short contract language you can request or add

Below are short, plain English clauses you can ask to include verbatim as rider text in a release or contract. These are operational templates you can paste into email negotiation — do not treat as legal advice.

Sample: Limited licence (image/video)

The Performer grants the Producer a non‑exclusive licence to use the Performer’s name, image and recorded performance for promotional and advertising purposes only in [territory e.g. Ireland & EU] for a period of [12 / 24] months from first publication, via [list media e.g. broadcast / online / social]. Any use beyond this territory or term requires the Performer’s prior written consent and additional agreed compensation.
  

Sample: Payment timing and late penalty

The Producer will pay the Performer the agreed fee of [€X] within [30] calendar days after the Performer’s final signed timesheet. Late payments will attract interest at [3%] per annum above the European Central Bank base rate, calculated daily from the due date until payment in full.
  

Sample: ID and data protection clause

The Producer is the data controller for the purposes of processing the Performer’s identity documents solely to verify right to work and process payroll. The Producer will store such documents securely, delete copies no later than [12] months after the production wrap (unless required by law to retain longer), and will not share them with third parties without the Performer’s explicit consent except where required for legal/regulatory compliance.
  

Short real‑style examples (fictional names)

These examples are fictitious and meant to show how the checklist applies.

Case 1 — Dublin commercial casting (quick check)

"SunCity Films" emails a call for two background models, using a Gmail address. They ask for passport scans and a €40 "admin fee". Action: red flags — request legal company name, CRO number, refuse fee, and contact Equity or CCPC. If no satisfactory response, decline and report. ([ccpc.ie](https://www.ccpc.ie/news-and-media/news/article?utm_source=openai))

Case 2 — Malta studio extra hire (international shoot)

A UK casting company lists a production shooting at Malta Film Studios and links to Screen Malta rebate pages. They provide a named line producer and secure document portal; they confirm a host letter for Single Permit application for non‑EEA talent. Action: verify company via MBR and Screen Malta listing, request written call sheet and contract, and proceed. ([maltafilmcommission.com](https://maltafilmcommission.com/))

Sources and verification

Authoritative sources consulted (accessed 24 July 2026):

• Screen Ireland — Visas & Working Permits / Production funding guidance. Accessed 24 July 2026. ([screenireland.ie](https://www.screenireland.ie/filming/visas-working-permits?utm_source=openai))
• Equity (UK & Ireland) — Working in Ireland guidance and contract checklist. Accessed 24 July 2026. ([equity.org.uk](https://www.equity.org.uk/advice-and-support/know-your-rights/working-in-ireland?utm_source=openai))
• Data Protection Commission (Ireland) — Case studies and guidance on photography and use of images (DPC). Accessed 24 July 2026. ([dataprotection.ie](https://dataprotection.ie/en/dpc-guidance/blogs/taking-photos-school-events-where-common-sense-comes-play?utm_source=openai))
• Workplace Relations Commission (Ireland) — Written statement/Day‑5 and employment rights guidance. Accessed 24 July 2026. ([workplacerelations.ie](https://www.workplacerelations.ie/en/what_you_should_know/coming_to_work_in_ireland/foreign-nationals-on-irish-fishing-vessels/?utm_source=openai))
• Revenue (Ireland) — Film Withholding Tax guidance and Tax & Duty Manual on Film Withholding Tax. Accessed 24 July 2026. ([revenue.ie](https://www.revenue.ie/en/companies-and-charities/reliefs-and-exemptions/film-relief/film-withholding-tax.aspx?utm_source=openai))
• Screen Malta (formerly Malta Film Commission) — production/incentive information. Accessed 24 July 2026. ([maltafilmcommission.com](https://maltafilmcommission.com/))
• Information and Data Protection Commissioner (Malta, IDPC) — guidance and resources for controllers. Accessed 24 July 2026. ([idpc.org.mt](https://idpc.org.mt/for-organisations/?utm_source=openai))
• An Garda Síochána — Fraud and scam advice (including job scams). Accessed 24 July 2026. ([garda.ie](https://www.garda.ie/en/crime/fraud/am-i-a-victim-of-a-romance-scam-.html?utm_source=openai))
• Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) Ireland — consumer scam and enforcement notices. Accessed 24 July 2026. ([ccpc.ie](https://www.ccpc.ie/news-and-media/news/article?utm_source=openai))

Final quick checklist before you sign

1. Do you have a written offer with named company? — proceed only if yes.
2. Is any payment requested from you? — if yes, do not pay; investigate.
3. Are ID uploads secure and justified? — if not, refuse until clarified.
4. Is the usage, territory and duration clearly limited? — negotiate if too broad.
5. Did you save all email threads and the final signed paperwork? — keep them in a secure folder.

Further reading and internal ShootingMode resources

• A Practical Dublin Casting Application System: Headshots, CVs, Spotlight Alternatives, Tracking and Follow‑Up — practical application and follow‑up tips for Dublin castings.
• Malta commercial casting guide for international productions — complementary checklist for Maltese studio work.
• How to verify a modelling or acting casting in Ireland (and Malta): contracts, scams, data protection and a 20‑point due‑diligence checklist — this definitive guide (canonical URL).
• How to verify a modelling or acting casting in Ireland (and Malta): contracts, scams, data protection and a 20‑point due‑diligence checklist (short) — a shorter companion piece and downloadable checklist.

Closing notes

Verifying castings is mainly about building a reproducible habit: ask for written terms, verify legal identity, protect your personal data, and escalate concerns to your union or the appropriate regulator. For Dublin performers the local employment timelines (Day‑5 statements) and Irish tax rules (including the Film Withholding Tax) matter; for Malta work always verify permit support and the production’s association with Screen Malta where offers claim incentives. If ever in doubt, pause, check, and use the 20‑point checklist above.