ISLAND NEWS! New legal changes for buying property in Northern Cyprus
- Samira Sinjab
- May 16
- 3 min read
Northern Cyprus continues to open its doors – for you, for us, for all those who want to start anew.
Dear island friend,
Perhaps you're as in love with Cyprus as we are—with the sun, the sea, and life between East and West. And perhaps you sense that a new era is dawning here in the still unrecognized, yet so powerful, Northern Cyprus.
Back on May 4, 2025, we talked in our blog about the changes happening for people who want to emigrate or invest. Back then, we talked about simplified residency regulations and visa requirements – you can find the post here again if you'd like to take a look.👉 Click here for the post .
We had a feeling back then – and now it's finally here: On May 16, 2025, further positive changes were officially announced. And that feels really good!
What's new?
🌿 Three instead of just one: More space for your home:
Effective immediately, as a foreign investor, you can purchase up to three properties in Northern Cyprus – instead of just one as before. If you're a Turkish citizen, you can purchase up to six properties . This opens up many possibilities: Perhaps you want to build something for your children, perhaps you dream of small vacation apartments by the sea that you can rent out – now you can think bigger.
💫 9% instead of 12% : The transfer tax is reduced
There's good news here too: The total transfer tax is being reduced from 12% to 9% . Previously, you had to pay 6% upfront upon purchase, and the remaining 6% was due later, sometimes years later, when you signed the PTP (Permit to Own) document.
Now you only pay 3% on the second step. This means more financial ease and less bureaucratic stress. And yes, this applies immediately .
🔧 Further changes for property developers
There are other regulations that apply to construction companies – but they're not particularly relevant to you as a buyer or expat. However, if you're interested, please let us know; we'd be happy to share more information.
Why this is important
You might not realize it right away when reading this, but this is truly a powerful step. We've already heard from many here on the island how relieved and happy they are. These changes, and the residency changes from May 2nd, make it much easier to truly put down roots here, create space, and start something new. And that's exactly what we need at this time, isn't it?
Northern Cyprus is showing: You are welcome. And not just with words, but with real, tangible decisions.
And what happens next?
We've spoken with many people from politics and business over the past few days – and there's something in the air. It feels like that's not all there is to it. There are two more major topics where something could happen soon:
The 80/20 quota : Currently, at least 20% of properties in residential projects must be purchased by Northern Cypriots or Turkish citizens. This can be a hindrance—many hope this rule will soon be abolished.
Political opening : The old, often painful division between North and South Cyprus still lingers. But many feel: If so much is changing around the world, why not here too? Perhaps now is the time when we can see Cyprus as a united front. Peace, dialogue, genuine connection – all of this is possible.
A short conclusion from the heart
Northern Cyprus isn't just a place. It's a space for new beginnings, for grounding and new beginnings at the same time. It's sun on your skin and hope in your heart. And with changes like this, this place becomes a little more like home – for you, for us, for all those seeking freedom, connection, and a place in the world.
If you have any questions or feel like this topic is calling you, feel free to write to us. We'll walk this path together. 🌍🌞
With love and affection,
Your team from the island
Samira & Marten*
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