US rapper Snoop Dogg has been granted an Australian work visa following months of deliberation with immigrations officials.

The rapper, whose real name is Cordozar Calvin Broadus, will now be able to be able to embark on a scheduled autumn tour with Ice Cube.

Australian officials said Broadus had been granted a visa following a full character assessment. They had previously voiced concern over drug and weapon charges on the rapper's criminal record.

"The department weighed his criminal convictions against his previous behaviour while in Australia,” a statement said.

"We took into account all relevant factors and, on balance, the department decided to grant the visa.

"Mr Broadus will need to abide by Australia's laws and he will be formally counselled before his arrival about his visa conditions and our expectations relating to his conduct."

Yesterday, it emerged actor Russell Crowe had written to the Australian government to try and persuade officials to allow the rapper into the country.

The rapper has visited Australia three times – in 1998, 2006 and 2007 – without incident.

(by Jason Gregory)