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Indian students planning to study in New Zealand could see expanded opportunities under the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), with provisions covering student mobility, work during studies and post-study employment.
The agreement is scheduled to come into force on October 20, 2026. New Zealand High Commissioner Patrick John Rata said education cooperation and youth mobility are expected to become important areas of the countries' growing strategic partnership.
No Numerical Cap On Indian Students
One of the key provisions for students is the removal of numerical caps on Indian students under the agreement. The FTA also guarantees Indian students a minimum of 20 hours of work per week during their studies, providing an opportunity to gain work experience alongside their academic programmes.
The agreement further provides extended post-study work opportunities. STEM bachelor's and master's graduates can receive post-study work opportunities of up to three years, while doctoral graduates can receive up to four years.
These provisions are expected to give Indian students pursuing higher education in New Zealand greater opportunities to gain international work experience after completing their courses.
Education Partnerships, Research To Get Boost
Rata said New Zealand educational institutions are increasingly interested in establishing collaborations and research partnerships with Indian institutions. The High Commissioner highlighted the potential for deeper cooperation between universities and educational institutions of the two countries, including research collaborations and other academic partnerships.
For students and researchers, stronger institutional ties could create opportunities for academic collaboration and international research exposure as the bilateral relationship develops.
Working Holiday Scheme For Young Indians
Youth mobility is another area covered by the agreement. New Zealand will provide multiple-entry Working Holiday Visas for 1,000 young Indians annually, allowing eligible participants to live and work in the country for up to 12 months.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening people-to-people connections while providing young Indians with opportunities for international exposure and work experience.
Skilled Work Opportunities After Studies
The FTA also creates a Temporary Employment Entry (TEE) visa pathway for Indian professionals in skilled occupations. The pathway has a quota of 5,000 visas at any given time, with stays of up to three years.
It covers professions such as IT, engineering, healthcare, education and construction, along with areas including yoga, Indian cuisine and music.
Direct Flights Also In Focus
Beyond education and employment, direct connectivity between India and New Zealand is also being discussed. Rata said New Zealand remains hopeful of establishing direct flights between the two countries, with political leadership on both sides having expressed support for the aspiration.
The FTA forms part of a broader India-New Zealand strategic partnership covering trade, education, defence, culture, sports and people-to-people ties. The agreement is scheduled to take effect on October 20, 2026.
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