India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement Brings New Visa Commitments
India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement Brings New Visa Commitments
Published: 20 October 2026
Category: Immigration News | Work Visas | Student Visas
The India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) entered into force on 20 October 2026, introducing new visa commitments to support New Zealand’s economic and workforce needs.
The agreement includes two new Temporary Employment Entry (TEE) visa categories, expanded post-study work rights for eligible Indian graduates, commitments relating to in-study work rights for Indian students, and a new working holiday scheme for Indian nationals.
New India Skilled Work Visa and India Iconic Work Visa
From 20 October 2026, two new Temporary Employment Entry visa pathways are available for eligible applicants in highly skilled occupations and a limited number of professions considered iconic to India.
Key details include:
Up to 5,000 TEE visa holders may be in New Zealand at any one time.
Most places will be allocated to skilled occupations already identified on New Zealand’s Green List.
TEE visas will be valid for three years.
Applicants must meet all relevant immigration requirements, including holding a qualifying job offer from an accredited employer and meeting applicable qualification, English-language, health, character and identity requirements.
These visas do not provide a pathway to New Zealand residence.
Find the official visa information:
Expanded Post-Study Work Rights for Indian PhD Graduates
From 16 November 2026, eligible Indian graduates who have completed a PhD in New Zealand will become eligible for Post Study Work Visas of up to four years, rather than three years.
This change forms part of the FTA’s commitments relating to post-study work opportunities for eligible Indian graduates.
In-Study Work Rights for Indian Students
Eligible students of all nationalities, including Indian students, can currently work up to 25 hours per week while studying, subject to their visa conditions.
The FTA also confirms a commitment to 20 hours of in-study work per week for Indian students should policy settings change in the future.
Students should check the work conditions attached to their individual visas and the latest Immigration New Zealand instructions.
New Working Holiday Scheme for Indian Nationals
A new working holiday scheme for Indian nationals aged 18 to 30 will be introduced within two years of the FTA entering into force.
The scheme will:
Be capped at 1,000 places annually.
Allow successful applicants to stay in New Zealand for up to 12 months.
Be subject to the applicable scheme rules and eligibility requirements.
Further details and application arrangements will be subject to announcements from Immigration New Zealand.
Important Information for Prospective Applicants
The new pathways will operate within New Zealand’s existing immigration framework. Applicants must continue to meet all relevant visa requirements, and eligibility does not guarantee visa approval.
For the latest information, including visa requirements and application guidance, visit the official Immigration New Zealand website.
Source: Immigration New Zealand — India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement brings new visa commitments, published 20 October 2026.
This article summarises an official Immigration New Zealand announcement for informational purposes. Immigration policies and requirements may change. Applicants should refer to official immigration instructions for current requirements.
The India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement came into force on 20 October 2026, introducing new skilled work visa pathways, expanded post-study work rights for eligible Indian PhD graduates, commitments on student work rights, and a planned working holiday scheme for Indian nationals. Read the latest updates from Immigration New Zealand.