Erginel Law Office

08/10/2026

CHANGES TO RESIDENCE PERMITS FOR PROPERTY OWNERS IN NORTHERN CYPRUS

Following amendments to the Regulation on Residence Permits and Visas published in the Official Gazette on 2 October 2026 and 5 October 2026, significant changes have been introduced concerning the duration of residence permits and the financial requirements applicable to foreign property purchasers in Northern Cyprus.

The amendments introduce the possibility of obtaining residence permits valid for 5 or 10 years, depending on the property’s value and the applicant’s ownership status.

1. Property Owners Holding Title Deeds

Under the amendments published on 2 October 2026, foreign nationals whose immovable property is registered in their name may benefit from the following provisions:

Property valued at £300,000 or above: A residence permit valid for 10 years may be obtained without the requirement to demonstrate regular income.

Property valued below £300,000: A residence permit valid for 5 years may be obtained without the requirement to demonstrate regular income.

The same permit durations also apply to family residence permits where the sponsoring family member qualifies under the above provisions.

2. Property Purchasers Awaiting Permission to Purchase (PTP)

Further amendments published in the Official Gazette on 5 October 2026 extend the provisions to foreign nationals who have purchased immovable property but have not yet obtained the title deed in their name.

The following conditions apply where an application for Permission to Purchase (PTP) has been submitted to the relevant Ministry:

Property valued at £300,000 or above

Where the purchase price stated in the contract of sale, duly stamped and approved by the Tax Office, is £300,000 or more, or its equivalent in another currency, the purchaser may obtain a 5-year residence permit without demonstrating regular income.

Property valued below £300,000

Where the purchase price is below £300,000, a 5-year residence permit may be granted, provided that the applicant demonstrates regular monthly income equivalent to at least one minimum wage.

The required income may be evidenced by:

An apostilled document issued by the applicant’s home country confirming regular monthly income; or
Documentation issued by a bank in Türkiye or abroad confirming sufficient income to meet the applicable requirement.

3. Residence Permit Exemptions

Importantly, the existing provisions concerning exemptions from residence permits have not been removed from the relevant regulation.

Based on our current interpretation of the amendments, qualifying property owners may also be eligible for a 10-year residence permit exemption.

However, clarification from the relevant authorities is required regarding the practical application of this provision.

4. Property Valuation and Implementation

Although the amendments establish the £300,000 threshold, the procedure for determining the value of properties already registered in the owner’s name has not yet been clarified.

Further guidance is expected from the relevant authorities concerning the applicable valuation method.

It should also be noted that existing residence permits and exemptions will not be extended automatically. Applicants must continue to follow the prescribed renewal procedures.

The amendments came into force on their respective publication dates. Nevertheless, some time may be required for the relevant authorities to implement the new provisions in practice.

Further clarification is expected regarding property valuations and the practical implementation of the new rules.

For further information or assistance with residence permit applications and renewals, please contact Erginel Law Office.

Disclaimer: This announcement is based on the amendments published on 2 and 5 October 2026 and their current interpretation. The practical application of certain provisions remains subject to clarification by the relevant authorities.

08/10/2026

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

REDUCTION IN PROPERTY TRANSFER TAX RATES

We wish to inform our clients that amendments to the District Lands Office Fees and Charges were published in the Official Gazette on 6 October 2026, introducing reduced property transfer tax rates.

Under the new regulations, purchasers may benefit from reduced transfer tax rates, replacing the previous rate of 9%, as follows:
☑️First Property Purchase: 4%
☑️Second Property Purchase: 5.5%
☑️Third Property Purchase: 6%

❗️The reduced rates will remain in effect until 5 January 2027 (inclusive).

This temporary reduction provides an opportunity for property purchasers to benefit from lower transfer tax rates during the specified period.

For further information regarding the amendments and their application to your property transaction, please do not hesitate to contact our office.

02/06/2026

The TRNC Legal Assembly has introduced a new Immigration Amnesty, which was published in the Official Gazette on 26 May 2026.

The purpose of this amnesty is to provide an opportunity for certain foreign nationals who have breached immigration regulations, overstayed their tourist visa, failed to extend their permits, or became subject to deportation measures in Northern Cyprus, to legalise their immigration status in the TRNC without being required to pay the fines that would otherwise apply.

Eligible individuals must submit their applications within the period specified below and those whose applications are approved will generally be required to pay an amnesty fee equivalent to one monthly minimum wage (60,618TRY), after which they will be granted a temporary legal status enabling them either to leave Northern Cyprus lawfully or apply for the appropriate permit or enter the TRNC if they are abroad.

I. PERSONS WITH EXPIRED VISAS OR INCOMPLETE PERMIT APPLICATIONS

The amnesty applies to foreign nationals who:
1. Have stayed in the TRNC after the expiry of their tourist visa;
2. Failed to complete applications for:
Residence permits;
Student permits;
Work permits;
Permanent residence permits;
Business establishment permits; or
Exemption permits;
3. Failed to renew an expired permit; and
Have become liable for immigration fines as a result of the above circumstances.

Application Period

Applications must be submitted within 45 days from 26 May 2026.

After Approval

If the application is approved:
The applicant must pay an amnesty fee equal to one minimum wage within 10 days.

Upon payment, the applicant will be granted a 60-day residence permit.

During the 60-Day Period the applicant must either:
Leave the TRNC lawfully; or
Submit an application for the appropriate residence status.

Work Permit Applications

Applicants who wish to obtain a work permit will be exempt from the usual pre-authorisation work permit procedure, which normally requires a foreign national to leave the country before obtaining employment authorisation.

Amnesty for Family Members

An important feature of the amnesty is that it also benefits certain family members of eligible applicants. Once an applicant obtains the 60-day residence permit under the amnesty, the following family members may also benefit:
Spouse;
Unmarried children under 25 years of age; and
Disabled children.

Provided that an online application is submitted and approved within the 60-day period:
Existing immigration fines against such family members will be waived; and
They will also be granted a 60-day visa/residence period.

To read about the requirements and procedure, please click here:
https://erginellaw.com/trnc-immigration-amnesty-published-on-26-may-2026-detailed-guidance/

26/05/2026

13/04/2026

On 3rd April, the British Residents Society hosted an event for its members at the Colony Hotel, focusing on the important topic of Wills and Succession and probate procedure in the TRNC.
Advocate Peyman Erginel, the legal advisor to the BRS, and members of Erginel Law Firm shared their expertise and provided the BRS members with a comprehensive overview of the history and formation of succession law in the TRNC, as well as practical guidance on estate planning.
In the presentation, a particular emphasis was placed on the practical aspects of estate planning, including the importance of having a properly drafted Will, the registration of deaths, the procedures involved in estate administration, and common issues faced by foreign nationals in Northern Cyprus.
The advocates and legal consultants of Erginel Law provided information and guidance to BRS members on how to better understand and protect their assets, and to ensure that their wishes are clearly reflected in their Wills in a legally enforceable manner.
In addition, informative leaflets were distributed to all attendees, offering a clear and practical guide to the procedures involved in preparing Wills and managing succession matters in the TRNC.
Those who could not attend the event and wish to have a copy of the distributed leaflets, can send our office a message on WhatsApp or email us and we will be pleased to share them with you.

10/03/2026

UK PROBATE MATTER INVOLVING NORTHERN CYPRUS: AFFIDAVIT

When the Deceased Was Resident in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC)

When a British citizen passes away while residing in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), additional legal steps are required in order to finalise probate proceedings in the United Kingdom. One of the most important requirements in such cases is the preparation of a formal affidavit on TRNC law to be used before the UK Probate Registrar or the relevant UK court.
This affidavit must be sworn by a qualified lawyer practising in the TRNC, who is fully conversant with the laws of Northern Cyprus.

Why Is a TRNC Affidavit Required?
Where the deceased was domiciled or resident in the TRNC at the time of death, UK authorities require an expert to explain how Northern Cyprus succession law applies to the estate.

Accordingly, the beneficiaries and/or the administrator of the estate will be required to instruct a TRNC-qualified lawyer to swear an affidavit confirming:

1. The lawyer’s qualifications and expertise to give expert evidence on TRNC Will and Succession law;
2. The legal system applicable in the TRNC;
3. How inheritance and succession operate under TRNC legislation;
4. Who is legally and beneficially entitled to the estate under TRNC law.
5. Where the deceased left a will in the TRNC, the affidavit must additionally confirm:
i. Whether the will is valid under TRNC law;
ii. Whether the will complies with the formal and substantive requirements of TRNC legislation;
iii. How the will complies with mandatory inheritance rules under the TRNC system;

Importance of Specialist TRNC Legal Advice

Affidavits prepared to be used in UK probate proceedings must be carefully prepared. Any inaccuracy, omission, or lack of clarity may result in substantial delays and additional costs. For this reason, it is vital to instruct a law firm with long standing experience in the TRNC Wills and Succession law and UK related probate matters.
Erginel Law has extensive experience assisting British clients and their families in matters involving estates connected to Northern Cyprus.

We have a long-standing professional relationship with the British Residents’ Society and regularly provide legal assistance to its members in our capacity as Honorary Legal Advisor to the Association. BRS members may benefit from special consideration when engaging our services. Our firm regularly prepares affidavits to be used in UK probate proceedings and work closely with UK solicitors to ensure that all legal requirements are met efficiently and correctly. If you require advice or assistance in relation to a UK probate matter involving Northern Cyprus, we would be pleased to assist you.

Visit our website for more information: https://erginellaw.com/

02/02/2026

Almost two years have now passed since the first amendment to the Law on the Acquisition of Immovable Property & Long Lease by Foreigners (Alias Law No. 52/2008) entered into force. During this period, the changes introduced by the law have been widely discussed and thoroughly explained through various professional channels and expert commentary in Northern Cyprus.
The amended law introduced strict deadlines that apply to purchasers who acquired immovable property in the TRNC before May 2024 compliance of which is still remain mandatory.
From our perspective, most foreign purchasers who acquired immovable property before 2024 have already contacted their Turkish Cypriot legal advisers and have either:
1. Aligned or in the process of aligning their ownership with the current legal requirements; or
2. Disposed of their properties.
This article is prepared specifically for those purchasers who have not yet completed their legal requirements under the amended law. Therefore, we have prepared a summary of the key deadlines, many of which will be approaching soon.
We strongly advise all affected purchasers to complete the necessary procedures before the expiry of the deadlines in order to secure their property rights and remain in compliance with the current regulations.
Key Deadlines Under the Amended Property Law
1. Contracts of sale signed before 21.05.2024 must be registered with the District Lands Office no later than 14.05.2026.
2. Purchasers who bought immovable property before 21.05.2024 must submit their Permission to Purchase application by 14.05.2026.
3. Transfer of Title Deed where PTP was approved before the Amendment Law must take place by 14.05.2026.
4. Exceeding Acquisition Rights. If a purchaser has exceeded their acquisition limits, an application to the TRNC Ministry of Interior must be submitted by 14.05.2026.
Applications submitted after 14.05.2026 will be subject to an increased tax rate of 3% instead of 1%. After the application is submitted and the tax is paid, the transfer of Contract of Sale (Sale by Assignment) must be completed no later than 14.05.2028.
5. All trustee agreements must be registered by 14.05.2026.
6. Purchases Without Kat İrtifak Koçanı. Foreign purchasers may acquire property without a Kat İrtifak Koçanı and apply for PTP provided that a valid Building Permit or Planning Approval exists, until 14.11.2027.
7. Transfer of the title deed & Payment of Taxes. Where a purchaser is considered a contractual owner, and the construction of the property was completed and delivered before 14.11.2025, the vendor and purchaser must: complete the transfer of the title deed within 36 months, i.e. by 14.11.2028; and pay all applicable taxes and fees at the time of transfer.
If there is a reasonable excuse preventing completion of the title deed transfer within the 36-month period, the Distrct Lands Office must be notified until 14.09.2028, and both the purchaser and/or the vendor shall make the payment of all applicable taxes and transfer fees.
8. Transfer of the shared title deed. If it is technically impossible to obtain an individual title deed due to issues arising from shareholders of the property; or technical or structural obstacles related to the project, and it is therefore not possible to establish condominium or easement rights in accordance with the relevant law, the interested shareholders must apply to the Distrct Lands Office by 14.11.2027.

If the Distrct Lands Office approves the application, the transfer of shares may proceed accordingly.

See FAQ: https://erginellaw.com/summary-of-the-deadlines-under-the-provision-rules-of-property-law/

16/12/2025

“Everything in the world is the work of women.” - Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

With these words, the hosts opened the ceremony for the North Cyprus Female Stars Awards.
Advocate Peyman Erginel has been honoured with this award not only as the first female lawyer to establish her own law firm in Northern Cyprus, but also for her exceptional contributions to justice, society, and public welfare over nearly 50 years of dedicated service.
In addition to founding her own legal practice, Mrs Erginel has played a key role in establishing several well-known and highly respected organisations, including:
• Kyrenia Animal Rescue Association
• Osman Türkay Foundation
• North Cyprus Cancer Charity Trust
• The Royal British Legion Association

She also serves as the Honorary Legal Adviser to the British High Commission and British Residents Society in Northern Cyprus.

One of her most remarkable achievements which was undertaken together with her husband, former Chief Justice Taner Erginel, was her work in amending Family Law to help prevent the spread of Mediterranean anemia (Thalassemia).

Advocate Peyman Erginel drafted the charter of the Association for the Protection of Persons with Thalassemia, and following its founding in 1978, she ensured vital amendments were made to Family Law requiring couples intending to get married to undergo blood testing. This allowed families to understand potential risks and take necessary precautions. These reforms played an essential role in stopping the disease from spreading within the community.

Advocate Peyman Erginel is widely regarded as a role model and source of inspiration for the next generation of women in law.

Many young female lawyers are aspired to follow in her footsteps. Throughout her career, she has consistently supported, mentored, and employed young female lawyers, guiding them with wisdom, and encouragement. By empowering women at the very beginning of their legal journeys, she has not only shaped successful careers but also strengthened the future of the legal profession itself.

Her achievements are inspiring, not only on a personal level but also as part of a broader story shared by all the remarkable women recognised by Cyprus Female Stars Awards- women who have proven that being born a woman is not a limitation but a source of extraordinary strength, capability, and vision.

This award celebrates the women who rise, lead, break barriers, and show the world that there is nothing a woman cannot achieve - often more, and with greater courage, than anyone ever expected.