This article summarises the recent and significant amendments to the Regulation on Visas and Residence Permits, as published in the Official Gazette on 30 April 2025 and 15 May 2025. These long-awaited changes represent crucial developments in immigration law, particularly relevant to foreign property owners in the TRNC.
Changes to Residence Permits Based on Immovable Property Ownership
A foreigner whose name is registered on the title deed is now entitled to apply for a 5-year residence permit without the need to prove any income.
A 5-year residence permit is also available to purchasers whose contract of sale has been stamped by the Tax Office and who applied for Permission to Purchase. In such cases:
- If the applicant has a monthly guaranteed income of at least one minimum wage, they may qualify for the 5-year permit.
- If the applicant does not have monthly income, a 5-year residence permit may still be granted, provided that the applicant deposits in a bank an amount equal to one minimum wage multiplied by the total permit period. Example: For a 5-year residence permit, the applicant must deposit:
43,000 TRY × (12 months × 5 years) = 2,580,000 TRY (approximately £52,000).
Changes to the Duration of Family Residence Permits
With the extension of the residence permit period for property owners, the duration of family residence permits has also been increased to 5 years. This means that if a property owner obtains a 5-year residence permit, their spouse may also be granted a 5-year family residence permit.
Changes to the Requirements for Residence Permits Based on High Income
A 1-year residence permit may be granted to foreigners whose:
- Monthly income is at least three times the minimum wage, or
- Annual income equivalent to this amount (3 minimum wages x 12 months) is deposited in their bank account.
This rule also applies to foreigners over the age of 60 years old who have a guaranteed regular income (e.g. retirement pension). If the application is supported by a rental agreement stamped by the Tax Office, a residence permit may be issued for up to 5 years, depending on the duration of the rental agreement.
For applicants over 60 years old who do not have guaranteed income, a residence permit may still be granted for up to 5 years, provided that they deposit an amount equivalent to the monthly minimum wage multiplied by the total permit period into a bank account.
Renewal of Residence Permits
The renewal application must be submitted within 40 days from the expiry date of the current residence permit.
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