What is an Artist Card?
An Artist Card is a formal identification provided by registered film and television unions in India. It confirms that the cardholder is a recognized professional artist working in the entertainment industry.
What is the Use of an Artist Card?
The primary use of an artist card is legal protection. If a production house denies payment or violates your contract, the card-issuing association can legally intervene on your behalf. It does not guarantee work but safeguards your professional rights.
Who Issues Genuine Artist Cards in Mumbai?
Only two authentic unions are recognized in Mumbai:
CINTAA (Cine and TV Artiste’s Association)
Shiv Sena Chitrapat Shakha
Any other organization offering cards is not officially acknowledged and should be avoided.
Does Getting an Artist Card Guarantee Work?
No. Your work comes from your talent, networking, and consistent efforts. The card is a support mechanism, not a job placement tool.
How Do Frauds Happen Using Artist Cards?
Frauds are common. Here’s how scammers target aspiring actors:
Fake websites offering cards in 1-2 hours — these are scams.
Promising guaranteed roles in exchange for card registration fees — stay alert.
Only trust CINTAA or Shiv Sena for issuing valid artist cards.
Can You Work Without an Artist Card?
Yes, absolutely. TV serials and films hire based on talent, not cards. Many actors begin their careers without any union membership.
How Much Does an Artist Card Cost?
CINTAA: Around ₹35,000 (check their installment options).
Shiv Sena: Around ₹3,000 (verify current rates before applying).
Eligibility Criteria for Artist Cards
CINTAA:
Previous work proof (released film/TV serial) or audition required.
Diploma/Degree from acting institutes (e.g., NSD, FTII) is preferred.
Application fee: ₹150 (cash)
Payment: ₹10,000 (cheque/DD in favour of CINTAA)
3 recent passport-size photos
Valid address and ID proof documents
Shiv Sena:
3 passport-size photos
ID & address proof (Aadhar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID, etc.)
Which Artist Card Should You Get?
Live in Mumbai with low budget? Shiv Sena card is affordable and gives basic protection.
Outside Mumbai (Delhi, MP, Punjab)? You don’t need an artist card to begin working.
Only go for CINTAA or Shiv Sena — all other cards are unrecognized in Mumbai.
Is Artist Card Mandatory?
No. It is not compulsory. You cannot be blackmailed or denied work for not having a card.
CINTAA Clarifies the Myths
CINTAA does not conduct raids or penalize non-members.
“No actor can be forced to buy any union card to get work,” says Sanjay Bhatia, CINTAA Committee Member.
No union has legal authority to fine or expel non-cardholders.
CINTAA visits sets only to ensure member welfare.
Is There Any Legal Judgment on Artist Cards?
Yes. The Competition Commission of India ruled that no union can penalize production houses for hiring non-union actors (refer to Times of India, 2 Nov 2017).
What to Do If Someone Demands an Artist Card?
If someone insists, show them this legal info. Save this article and present it as proof. Anyone forcing you is likely part of a scam.
Contact Details for Official Unions
CINTAA:
221, Kartik Complex, 2nd Floor, Opp. Laxmi Industrial Estate, New Link Road, Andheri (W), Mumbai-400053
Phone: +91 22 26730511
Website: www.mumbaidreams.co.in
Shiv Sena Chitrapat Shakha:
G 9, Nootan Nagar Premises CHS, Gurunanak Road, Bandra West, Mumbai
Phone: 26557001, 26404712Shreyas Colony, Hanuman Mandir, Aarey Road, Goregaon East
Final Word: Stay Alert, Stay Informed
Scammers exploit dreams. Stay informed, research properly, and rely only on authentic associations.
FAQs
Q1. Can I get work without any artist card?
Yes, talent is the true qualification.
Q2. Is it necessary to get a CINTAA card for TV work?
No. It’s voluntary.
Q3. Is it safe to pay online for artist cards?
No. Most such sites are fraudulent. Always apply via official offices.
Q4. Which card is better: CINTAA or Shiv Sena?
CINTAA offers stronger legal protection but is expensive. Shiv Sena is budget-friendly.
Q5. What if a casting coordinator forces me to get a card?
Refuse politely and report. No one can legally force you.
Recent Comments