Chris Brown cancels Australian and New Zealand tours after visa denial

Chris Brown recently cancelled his tour of Australia and New Zealand a week before their schedules due to visa complications.

Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Peter Dutton already informed Brown back in September of the possibility of his visa getting denied. Dutton previously said that unless the singer could show the government agency valid reason to permit him to enter the country within 28 days, Brown's visa would be denied. It is not known if the singer even accomplished paperwork for it.

Brown's first show was supposed to take place at the Perth Arena on Dec. 9, followed by another at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena on Dec. 12, Allphones Arena in Sydney on Dec. 14 and Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Dec. 16. The New Zealand show in Auckland was scheduled for Dec. 18. Fans who bought tickets in advance were offered refunds.

An Immigration New Zealand spokesperson confirmed on Wednesday that Chris Brown withdrew his work visa application.

The singer’s representatives posted an official statement on Ticketek and said, "Mr. Brown wishes to express his deepest gratitude to the fans for their support and looks forward to a successful tour in the near future.”

Brown’s felony convictions have barred him from entering New Zealand and other countries, unless he secures a “special direction” waiver. In 2009, Brown pleaded guilty to beating his pop star ex-girlfriend, Rihanna. The controversy about such violent act was revived by advocacy group GetUp! last September.

Brown is not the first celebrity to be denied entry to Australian shores. In August, American rapper Tyler the Creator also cancelled his Australian tour when he was banned to enter the country due to the violent and misogynistic nature of his lyrics.

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