North Cyprus 2025 Property, Tax & Residency Law Changes

Northern Cyprus has introduced important updates to its laws on property ownership for foreign nationals. The changes offer more flexibility in the number of properties foreigners can buy, lower tax rates, and improved residency rights. Here's a clear breakdown of the latest regulations:

What’s the New Property Law in North Cyprus 2025 for foreigners?

Foreigners are now allowed to purchase up to 3 apartments or 2 villas in Northern Cyprus. These limits apply per person, and a villa must not exceed 3,000 square meters of land.

For citizens of Turkey (a country that officially recognizes the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus), the limits are more generous:

• Up to 6 apartments, or
• Up to 3 villas.

This is a significant update from the previous rule, which allowed foreigners to purchase only one property.

How Much Tax Do Foreign Buyers Pay on Property in North Cyprus 2025?

The new regulations also revise the taxes on property purchases and title deeds. Here's how the rates now work:

For Foreign Nationals

Property Purchase Registration Taxes:

• 1st apartment or villa: 6%
• 2nd apartment: 3%
• 3rd apartment: 3%

Title Deed Transfer Fees:

• 1st title: 3%
• 2nd title: 6%
• 3rd title: 6%

If only stamp duty is paid (without full registration tax):

• Title deed transfer fee becomes 9% per property.

For Turkish Citizens

Property Purchase Registration Taxes:

• 1st apartment or villa: 1%
• 2nd apartment: 2%
• 3rd apartment: 3%

Title Deed Transfer Fees:

• 1st title: 1%
• 2nd title: 2%
• 3rd title: 3%

If only stamp duty is paid (without full registration tax):

• Title deed transfer fee is 6% per property.

How Long Can Foreigners Stay in Northern Cyprus?

Property buyers now benefit from longer residence permits. Previously valid for one year, residence permits are now issued for two years. In cases where the Council of Ministers approves the property purchase, the residency can be extended up to five years.

To qualify, property owners must still show that they earn at least the equivalent of the monthly minimum wage in Northern Cyprus.

Foreign property buyers in Northern Cyprus must complete the title deed transfer within 12 months of receiving official approval. All related taxes and fees must be paid within 75 working days following the publication of the approval. In cases where land is purchased, the planned construction must be completed within two years. Additionally, all foreign buyers are required to pass a security background check before final approval is granted.