Britain is keeping out more than just terrorists and unwanted immigrants with stringent new visa rules that have made it difficult, if not impossible, for international artists and performers to enter the country.

The rules, which were instituted to prevent illegal immigration, have also severely impacted or caused the cancellation of more than 20 major cultural events, according to a report, UK Arts and Culture: Cancelled by Order of the Home Office, compiled by the Manifesto Club, a group that campaigns against red tape in Britain. Among the complications thus far are the cancellation of two concerts by the Russian pianist Grigory Sokolov and the deportation of the Canadian singer Allison Crowe from Gatwick because she did not have a certificate of sponsorship.