Training We Offer
You do NOT need to be a member of the PMA to take part in this training.
We normally provide a variety of workshops and training sessions countrywide. Currently all training is taking place via Zoom.
At Production Manager level we offer topics ranging from legal issues such as compliance and music licensing, to Health & Safety and tax issues. We also cover technical topics relating to production and the current pandemic situation.
For more junior people, we offer a variety of entry level and limited experience sessions, which are open to all - bursaries are sometimes available via Screenskills.
Training events are FREE to members with fees charged for non-members. Prices vary from session to session. Places are limited according to each type of event.
See upcoming session below:
PRODUCTION WITHOUT BORDERS | Navigating Immigration in the US
Production Manager level training
Tuesday 24th November 2026 From: 5-6.35pm
Venue Online
Production Without Borders | Navigating Immigration in the US
US Immigration Strategies for Producers and Production Managers
Tuesday 24th November by Zoom
5pm for approximately 60 min
Global film and television production relies on international cast, crew, and creative talent to bring projects to life. But when immigration is overlooked or left until the last minute, productions can face costly delays, unexpected expenses and significant scheduling challenges.
This practical session by Paul Samartin, a US Immigration Attorney and Managing Partner at Samartin and Friends, explores the US immigration issues that production managers, line producers and production executives encounter most frequently. We will explore the visa options commonly used by talent in the production industry, alongside realistic timelines, common misconceptions, and the mistakes that can put productions at risk.
The session will examine real-world scenarios, including last-minute talent bookings, international co-productions, consular appointment delays and emergency travel requests. Most importantly, Paul will share practical strategies for building immigration planning into the production process to help keep projects on schedule and within budget. The session will conclude with a Q&A, giving members the opportunity to discuss their specific questions.
Whether you're managing a major international production or a fast-moving independent project, this session will provide valuable insights to help you navigate US immigration requirements with confidence and avoid the pitfalls that can derail a production.
Attendees will gain actionable insights into planning ahead, minimising disruptions and working effectively with immigration counsel to keep productions on track.
The Speaker | Paul Samartin
Paul Samartin is the Managing Partner of Samartin and Friends, a leading immigration law firm advising global businesses, entertainment companies, producers, artists and high-profile talent on complex US immigration matters. A recognised authority in global mobility and US immigration law, Paul regularly speaks on talent mobility, workforce planning and cross-border compliance issues affecting today's international entertainment industry.
With extensive experience supporting film, television, media and live entertainment productions, Paul and his team work closely with production teams to secure immigration solutions for international cast, crew, creatives and executives. Advising on everything from urgent production-driven filings to long-term mobility strategies, Samartin and Friends helps organisations navigate immigration complexities while minimising disruption to business and production objectives.
This event is FREE for PMA members, those on the PMA's Recommended Junior Production Staff list and PMA Sponsors.
For everyone else the cost is £25 per person, payable in advance (discounted for students)
Register for a place by emailing [email protected] or by clicking the button at the top.
Our Sponsors
The PMA is sponsored by a variety of companies in the film and television industry. We have a long-standing relationship with many of them dating back to the PMA’s inception in 1991.
PMA members benefit from the information and services that our sponsors can provide, while sponsors gain access to the upper echelon of Production Managers in the UK who are major purchasers for the industry.
Become a sponsor
We only have one sponsor per area of business but occasionally opportunities to become a sponsor of the PMA do arise.
Sponsors get the chance to meet our members several times a year, host parties, explain their services and write for our magazine The Bottom Line.
For more information on sponsorship, please contact us.