New Zealand Introduces Visa Measures Under India Free Trade Agreement

• New Zealand has introduced new visa pathways under the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, including two Temporary Employment Entry visa categories, expanded post-study work rights and a future working holiday scheme for Indian nationals.  

New Zealand Introduces New Visa Measures Under India Free Trade Agreement 

Immigration New Zealand has announced new immigration measures following the entry into force of the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on Oct. 20, 2026.  

The changes include new work visa categories, expanded post-study work rights and a future working holiday program for Indian nationals.  

New Temporary Employment Entry Visa Categories 

The FTA introduces two new Temporary Employment Entry (TEE) visa categories for Indian nationals. According to the government, the new visa pathways are intended for highly skilled occupations and a limited number of professions considered iconic to India.  

Key features include: 

• A cap of up to 5,000 TEE visa holders in New Zealand at any one time. 
• Most places are allocated to occupations already identified on New Zealand’s Green List.
• Applicants must hold a qualifying job offer from an accredited employer.
• Applicants must continue to meet qualification, English-language, health, character and identity requirements.
• TEE visas are valid for three years and do not provide a direct pathway to residence.

Expanded Post-Study Work Rights 

Beginning Nov. 16, 2026, Indian nationals who earn a New Zealand PhD will become eligible for post-study work visas of up to four years, an increase from the current three-year maximum.  

In-Study Work Commitments for Indian Students 

The FTA also includes commitments concerning student employment. 

Currently, eligible students of all nationalities may work up to 25 hours per week while studying in New Zealand.  

The agreement confirms that if these policy settings change in the future, Indian students will retain access to at least 20 hours of in-study work per week under the FTA commitments.  

New Working Holiday Scheme Planned 

New Zealand will also introduce a new working holiday program for Indian nationals within two years of the FTA’s entry into force.  

The scheme will: 

• Be available to Indian citizens aged 18 to 30.  
• Be capped at 1,000 places annually.  
• Permit successful applicants to remain in New Zealand for up to 12 months.  

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