Frequently Asked Questions

Buying any property abroad can be a daunting process due to the unconventional buying process and the possibility of complicated legal paperwork in a language you don't understand. Fortunately, buying a property in North Cyprus is very similar, if not easier, to buying a property in the UK! All necessary legal documents are in English, most lawyers are bilingual speaking both English and Turkish, and the legal system is based upon the English model. Under the right conditions, you are able to own a property in North Cyprus in just one day.

Once you have found your ideal property in North Cyprus, a simple deposit will secure it for you and ensure the property is removed from the open market. In North Cyprus it is possible to pay in cash or by credit card. You are also able to pay deposits via bank transfers although it can take up to 28 days for checks to be cleared through the banking system. A typical deposit is 10% of the properties final price. Non-citizens must obtain a purchase permit from the Turkish government in order to purchase property in Northern Cyprus; such permits may take up to 4-12 months to be issued.

The easiest way to get your permit to purchase a property is to hire a local notary or attorney, the latter is the better choice. Most lawyers are bilingual in both Turkish and English and will therefore be an invaluable guide to the upcoming legal process. If you are buying an off-plan property, you should consider hiring an independent lawyer who is not affiliated in any way with the developer. Your attorney who will deal and be responsible throughout the purchasing process will guide you through procedures including; checking the company or person you are buying from, arranging your necessary permits in order to purchase a property (as a non-national person) and confirming the status of the title documents. In addition, the attorney will also handle all governmental paperwork and also issue contracts in English. The government will also evaluate the transfer fees due to the property value.

Any contract should be properly reviewed and read in detail; After all, you want it to work in your favour as the buyer! Many property developers have standard contracts that your lawyer should check to ensure that any item that is contrary to your interests is renegotiated. A contract must include:

The final payment for a North Cyprus property must be made after obtaining the purchase authorization. As previously mentioned, the safest payment method is via bank transfer where the title deeds of the property are signed by the seller in your name. If you are buying an unplanned property, payments are usually made after certain procedures have been completed. The final payment will then secure the title deeds and key to your property in North Cyprus.

Traffic flows from the left and road signs are international. Top speed is 100km / hr. Vehicles entering Northern Cyprus must be insured on arrival. Seat belts should always be worn. It is illegal to drive and use a phone while driving.

New Year (January 1) Children's and Youth Day (23 April) Labor Day (May 1) Youth and Sports Day (19 May) Peace and Freedom Day (20 July) Victory Day (30 August) Turkey Republic Day (29 October) Northern Cyprus Republic Day (15 November)

A visa is not required for UK and European Union citizens who want to visit Northern Cyprus. It is only necessary to have a valid identity card or passport during the travel to Northern Cyprus. If you do not want your passport to be stamped on your arrival, you can also request a passport paper to be stamped.

The main language in North Cyprus is Turkish however English is widely used and considered as a second language.

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