India and New Zealand have signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that goes beyond trade and business.
This deal brings major benefits for Indian students and professionals who want to study or work in New Zealand.
As part of the agreement, New Zealand has relaxed several mobility rules.
These changes include longer post-study work visas, a reserved quota for skilled workers, and new job opportunities for Indian professionals.
Indians in New Zealand: Growing Numbers
New Zealand is ranked among the most beautiful countries in the world and is becoming a popular choice for Indian students.
Currently, over 12,000 Indian students are studying in New Zealand universities.
At the same time, many Indian professionals are already working in key sectors such as IT, healthcare, engineering, and education.
With the new agreement, these numbers are expected to grow further.
Skilled Work Visas for Indian Professionals
Under the FTA, New Zealand will issue 1,667 skilled work visas to Indians every year.
These visas will be valid for three years and cannot be renewed.
They are meant for sectors facing worker shortages, such as doctors, nurses, teachers, engineers, and IT professionals.
This move opens a direct pathway for skilled Indians to work in high-demand roles.
Working Holiday Visas Introduced
New Zealand will now offer working holiday visas to Indian citizens.
Every year, 1,000 Indians will be allowed to travel and work in the country under this scheme.
These visas will mainly support industries like tourism and rural businesses, where labour demand is high.
It also gives young Indians a chance to gain international work experience.
New Temporary Employment Entry Visa
A brand-new visa category called the Temporary Employment Entry Visa has been introduced.
Under this route, 5,000 Indian professionals can live and work in New Zealand for up to three years.
This visa covers sectors such as IT, engineering, healthcare, education, and construction.
It also includes roles like AYUSH practitioners, yoga trainers, Indian chefs, and music teachers.
Longer Post-Study Work Visas for Indian Students
Indian students will benefit significantly under the new education-related provisions.
Students can now work up to 20 hours per week while studying.
Those pursuing Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees in STEM subjects will receive a three-year post-study work visa.
PhD students will get an even longer four-year work visa after completing their studies.
Big Opportunity Ahead
The India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement creates fresh opportunities for education, employment, and skilled migration.
For Indian students and professionals, it opens clear and structured pathways to build careers in New Zealand while supporting the country’s workforce needs.
