Background agency

A background agency is an agency that represents extras (also known as background performers) and gets them work. In British Columbia, such agencies must be registered with the Ministry of Labour and must follow the following guidelines:


 * No more than 15% of the performer's earnings can be charged for the agency's commission, plus a 7% GST from the commission amount.
 * Commission must be charged after the performer has worked on the production and the cheque for it has arrived.
 * An annual photo and listing fee of $25 maximum may be charged by the agency.

Payment methods
Agencies have different ways of accepting commission payment from their clients. Some of the common methods include:
 * Holding a cheque for the performer. After the performer pays the commission to the agency, the agency will release the cheque to the performer.
 * The commission is pre-deducted from the cheque already.

Children in film
There are special rules that govern children under 15 years of age in film; these rules cover background performers as well as principal actors. They must acquire a permit to work on set and cannot work overtime (over 8 hours). In addition, a parent or guardian must be on set at all times supervising the child. In addition, child performers must take a short break every hour.