From Financialexpress · Sunil Dhawan · · 1m 30s
New Zealand Opens Work Visas for Indians
New Zealand launches 2 work visas for Indians: Iconic and Skilled pathways.
In brief
New Zealand launches 2 work visas for Indians: Iconic and Skilled pathways. New Zealand's India-New Zealand FTA allows up to 5,000 Indian workers via Iconic Work Visa for yoga instructors, chefs, music teachers and AYUSH practitioners, and Skilled Work Visa for engineers, nurses, teachers and more. Originally reported…
New Zealand FTA enters force
The India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement entered into force on October 20, 2026.
2 new work visas for Indians
New Zealand launches 2 Temporary Employment Entry visas for Indian citizens: Iconic and Skilled pathways.
Iconic Work Visa covers specific jobs
Iconic Work Visa allows yoga instructors, Indian chefs, music teachers and AYUSH practitioners.
Skilled Work Visa covers specific jobs
Skilled Work Visa covers engineers, nurses, teachers and other skilled occupations.
Visa limits and costs
Iconic visa: up to 600 visas, NZD $1355 cost, 3-year stay; Skilled visa: up to 4,400 visas, NZD $1355 cost, 3-year stay.
Post-study work rights expansion
Indian graduates with New Zealand PhDs get up to 4 years of post-study work visas.
In-study work rights for Indian students
Indian students can work up to 20 hours a week while studying under FTA.
Eligibility requirements
Must have job offer from accredited employer, relevant qualifications, English language skills, and health checks.
Visa duration and renewal
Visas valid for 3 years; can apply for renewal if job offer lasts longer than 3 years.
The main idea
New Zealand's India-New Zealand FTA allows up to 5,000 Indian workers via Iconic Work Visa for yoga instructors, chefs, music teachers and AYUSH practitioners, and Skilled Work Visa for engineers, nurses, teachers and more.
