Residence Permit in Cyprus

Northern Cyprus, a stunning part of the Eastern Mediterranean, has become a center of life for foreigners in recent years with its breathtaking natural beauty and impressive atmosphere. This corner of paradise under the sun offers a life at European standards with its turquoise sea, dazzling beaches and colorful atmosphere. With its peaceful environment and budget-friendly advantages, Northern Cyprus has carved out a unique place for itself among other popular vacation destinations and is the perfect option for those looking for tranquility and comfort. For foreigners wishing to live on this charming island for the long term, a residence permit is the key to legally extending their stay. There are various types of permits and application processes for those wishing to obtain a residence permit in Cyprus. In this article, you can learn every detail from the types of residence permits in Cyprus to the application processes and legally open the doors to a long-term comfortable life on this beautiful island.

What is a Residence Permit in Cyprus?

Turkish Republic of Northern CyprusA residence permit is mandatory for foreigners who wish to stay in Turkey for longer than the period allowed by the visa or visa exemption or for more than ninety days. This permit opens the door to a long-term stay in the country legally.

Work and business establishment permits issued under the Foreigners' Work Permits Act and permanent residence permits obtained under the Permanent Residence Permits Act are considered residence permits for the duration of their validity. In this case, a separate residence permit is not required.

Foreigners who wish to stay in Northern Cyprus for more than ninety days can apply for and obtain a residence permit if they fulfill the requirements of the relevant type of residence permit. This regulation is an important step for those who want to take advantage of the long-term living opportunities offered by the country.

Types of Residence Permits in Northern Cyprus

Northern CyprusThere are four main types of residence permits for those who plan to live in the charming cities of Turkey. These are options, each catering to different needs and situations:

• Short Term Residence Permit: This type of permit is granted for a maximum of one year at a time and is an ideal option, especially for those who want to experiment.
• Family Residence Permit: It is valid for foreigners married to TRNC citizens and their children under the age of 23 who are not working or students, and is granted for a maximum period of two years.
• Student Residence Permit: It is eligible for foreigners enrolled at an educational institution in Northern Cyprus and can be granted for up to two years, depending on the duration of study. However, it is only valid for the duration of study and requires valid health insurance.
• Residence Permit for Foreigners Over 60: This category grants residence permits to foreigners over 60 years of age for a maximum of three years at a time.

Each type of residence permit is granted subject to certain conditions and circumstances. For example, the family residence permit is valid for foreigners who are married to TRNC citizens and their family members can also benefit from this permit. The student residence permit is only valid for registered students and applications for distance learning programs are not accepted.

Documents Required for Residence Permit Application in Cyprus

Certain documents are required for those who wish to obtain a residence permit by acquiring real estate in Northern Cyprus. These documents ensure that your application is processed smoothly and quickly. Here are the basic documents you will need to apply for a residence permit in Northern Cyprus:

• Certificate of Residence issued by the Municipality: Official confirmation of the address where you are staying.
• Bank Statement showing savings and monthly income: Documents proving your financial situation.
• Medical Records and Health Report: Important documents documenting your health condition.
• Real Estate Sales Contract and Title Deed: Official documents verifying your real estate purchase.
• Valid Health Insurance Policy: Insurance policy showing your health coverage.
• Passport: Original and photocopies of passports valid for at least 6 months for non-EU citizens and at least two months for EU or TRNC citizens.
• Criminal Record: A clean criminal record from your country of citizenship.
• Two Biometric Photos: Current biometric photos for your application.
• Additional Documents for Applications with Family Members: Marriage certificate or birth certificates of children.
• Fee Payment Receipts: Documents proving fee payments made to public institutions.

These documents are required for the general application process, but the Immigration Office may request additional documents specific to your application. It is worth contacting your real estate agent or the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information and specific requirements.

Residence Permit Application Process

Applications for a residence permit in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus must be submitted no later than thirty days from the beginning of the visa period granted upon entry into the country. Applications must be submitted to the Immigration Department of the District Police Directorate in the district where the residence address is located. Renewal of an existing residence permit may be carried out no earlier than sixty days and no later than twenty days before the expiry of the permit. Applications are assessed as a matter of priority by the Immigration Department of the District Police Directorate and forwarded to the Immigration Department within ten days at the latest, together with a reasoned opinion on the granting of the residence permit. After the Immigration Department receives the application file, the applicant must submit a positive medical report. If the medical report is positive and no further examination is required, the residence permit is issued. However, if the medical report is not submitted to the Department within thirty days from the date of application, you will receive a text message that the application has been rejected and you must leave the country within five days. Foreigners who do not leave the country within this period are deemed to be in the country without authorization and are subject to fines under the law.

Residence Permit Renewal Process in Cyprus

In order to extend your residence permit in Northern Cyprus, you need to fill in the application form via the e-residence system. This process is a preliminary evaluation of your application and you will be given an appointment upon completion of the form. On the day and time of the appointment, you can go to the Provincial Immigration Administration with the necessary documents and complete your residence permit extension process. When filling out the form on e-residency, it is very important that the information you provided during your current residence permit is accurate and consistent. If you are found to have deliberately provided false information on the form, your extension application will be rejected and you may be subject to criminal sanctions.

When Should I Apply for an Extension of Residence Permit?

The residence permit extension application must be submitted no later than 60 days before your current permit expires. Those who do not apply within this period must apply for a new residence permit if they wish to stay in Turkey. Foreigners who cannot apply within the deadline with a valid excuse can apply for an extension within 15 days from the expiration of the permit. If the extension application is submitted within the deadline, you will be issued a temporary document so that you can continue your stay in Turkey even if your current residence permit expires.

Documents Required for Residence Permit Extension

The documents required for the residence permit extension process are as follows:

• Signed application form
• Proof of current residence permit
• Notarized photocopy of passport or passport substitute document
• 4 current photographs
• Declaration that you have sufficient financial income to stay in the country
• Proof of valid health insurance

These documents are required for all types of residence permits, but specific additional documents may be requested for each type.

Application Finalization Time

A residence permit extension application is legally finalized within 90 days at the latest. However, this period may be extended in case of additional document requests. You can track the outcome of your application on the e-residency website and the governorate will notify you by your preferred method (e-mail or SMS) when a decision is made. For applications submitted within the deadline, you will be issued a document to continue your stay in Turkey even if your previous residence permit expires. For unfavorable applications, you have the right of appeal and litigation.