Snoop Dogg: Still needs counselling

Following on from recent news regarding US rapper Snoop Dogg not being granted a visa to perform in Australia, it seems that the controversial has rapper successfully passed a character test and has subsequently been granted with an Australian visa.

Character references are a regular part of the visa application process and Australian immigration authorities had previously said that they would not grant him a visa until one had been completed.

One of the reasons which went against Dogg on his initial application was the fact that on previous visits to the country the rapper had overstayed his visas. An offence which Australian officials said that they were not willing to forget, despite the popularity of the artist.

As a result of the refusal the rapper’s upcoming Smoked Out tour had been in doubt after immigration authorities confirmed they were investigating the performer’s criminal history.

The whole visit in its entirety has been well published and has certainly allocated a great deal of awareness on the Australian visa system. Some what of a positive surely, with so many Brits opting to flee the murky weather and live, study or work in Australia.

The character reference in question which ultimately resulted in a visa approval was provided to authorities by Russell Crowe, a fellow ‘celebrity’ favourite.

The approval of Snoop Dogg’s visa however, fails to seem straight forward. The Department of Immigration today confirmed Snoop Dogg has been granted a visa, however on the condition he receives counselling before arriving in the country.

Speaking of the decision to grant approval the Department for Immigration and Citizenship Australia said, “Given his criminal record, the Department undertook a full character assessment of Snoop Dogg’s criminal history and previous conduct before making a decision on his visa application. In making this decision, the Department weighed his criminal convictions against his previous behaviour while in Australia, recent conduct – including charity work – and any likely risk to the Australian community.”