September 2026 update

Visa and entry rules change

This changes rules about visas and permission to enter New Zealand.

Immigration (Visa, Entry Permission, and Related Matters) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2026

What's changing

Who's affected

People holding an India Iconic Work visa or India Skilled Work visa will be affected.

When

The changes come into force on 20 October 2026.

Background

The government says these exemptions were created because of the Free Trade Agreement between New Zealand and India, signed on 27 April 2026.

Read the official text on legislation.govt.nz