India–New Zealand FTA to Open 5,000 Work Visas for Indians, Expanding Global Job Opportunities

India and New Zealand signed their first bilateral Free Trade Agreement in New Delhi on 27 April 2026, marking a major step towards boosting job mobility and overseas opportunities for Indian professionals, as reported by Y axis. 

A key highlight of the agreement is the introduction of 5,000 Temporary Employment Entry visas annually for skilled Indian workers. These roles spanned sectors such as IT, healthcare, engineering and education, along with specialised fields like yoga instruction, culinary arts and music. Professionals are allowed to work in New Zealand for up to three years, with pathways to transition into permanent residency under existing immigration frameworks.

The deal also includes 1,000 Working Holiday visas each year for Indians aged 18 to 30, enabling them to live and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months. In addition, Indian students continued to benefit from part time work rights of up to 20 hours per week and post study work permits of up to four years, depending on their qualifications.

The agreement created a structured and more predictable mobility framework, making it easier for employers to access global talent and for Indian professionals to explore international careers. Recruiters, particularly in cities like Auckland, are expected to benefit from a more streamlined hiring process compared to earlier migration caps.

Beyond mobility, the FTA provides duty free access for 100 percent of Indian exports to New Zealand and includes a long term investment commitment of $20 billion over 15 years. It also outlines collaboration across agriculture, services and emerging sectors, supporting broader economic cooperation between the two nations.

A notable addition is the focus on traditional medicine and wellness, opening opportunities for Ayurveda practitioners as New Zealand looks to strengthen its tourism and wellbeing sectors.

However, certain conditions remained in place. Employers are required to conduct labour market testing for roles below the high salary threshold, and dependants accompanying visa holders need separate insurance cover.

The agreement is expected to be ratified later this year, with visa regulations likely to be formalised within 90 days of signing. Businesses planning hiring or project deployments in late 2026 are advised to begin workforce planning early to align with the new visa quotas.