Indians Gain Two New NZ Work Visa Routes as Trade Pact Takes Effect

The free trade agreement between India and New Zealand entered into force on 20 October 2026, and it includes two new visa categories for Indian nationals who want to work temporarily in New Zealand. The deal also removes tariffs on Indian exports to New Zealand and brings investment commitments into India.

Key facts

• The agreement took effect on 20 October 2026.
• It creates two new Temporary Employment Entry (TEE) visa categories for Indian nationals.
• 100% of tariffs on Indian exports to New Zealand are eliminated.
• 95% of New Zealand's exports to India enter tariff-free or at sharply reduced levies.
• The deal includes $20 billion in foreign direct investment into India.

What is changing for travellers?

The agreement introduces two new Temporary Employment Entry (TEE) visa categories for Indian nationals. These are visa routes linked to temporary employment in New Zealand.

The source does not give any further detail on the two categories — it does not name them, state which occupations or sectors they cover, list eligibility criteria, or explain how long holders may stay. No application process, fees or start date for the visa categories themselves are specified beyond the agreement's entry into force on 20 October 2026.

Who is affected?

The new visa categories are described as being for Indian nationals. The source does not say whether any other nationalities are covered, and it does not mention any changes to tourist visas, visa-free entry or visitor rules for New Zealand.

When did the agreement start?

The agreement came into force on 20 October 2026. It was signed on 27 April in New Delhi and ratified on 21 September. New Zealand's Parliament passed legislation to implement the agreement on 16 September.

Why is this happening?

The visa measures form part of the wider trade deal. Alongside the two TEE categories, the agreement eliminates 100% tariffs on Indian exports to New Zealand, allows 95% of New Zealand's exports into India either tariff-free or at sharply reduced levies, and introduces $20 billion worth of foreign direct investment into India.

What this means for travellers

Indian nationals considering temporary work in New Zealand now have two additional visa routes to consider. Before making plans, they should check which of the two categories applies to their situation, since the source does not describe the eligibility rules, permitted length of stay, fees or application steps.

No further details on the two Temporary Employment Entry categories have been announced in the source. Travellers should watch for official guidance on how the categories will operate in practice.