Chris Brown has applied for a work visa to travel to New Zealand.

The pop star raised outrage from anti-violence groups when he announced he was coming to the country.

Brown was convicted of assaulting his ex-girlfriend and fellow singer Rihanna in 2009.

Immigration New Zealand area manager Michael Carley says any character issues that may affect Mr Brown's eligibility for a visa will be assessed as part of its decision making process.

He says Immigration expects to make a decision in time for Chris Brown's scheduled concert in Auckland in three weeks.