Can Europeans go to North Cyprus?
Citizens of countries that have an Embassy, Consulate General, Consulate or Representative Office in the TRNC and citizens of the EU countries must have a passport or travel document valid for at least 2 months to be able to enter TRNC.
Officially, entering the island through the north is a violation of EU immigration laws. However, for European citizens, entry to either side is no problem due to freedom of movement.
Since Cyprus is a member of the EU, EU nationals have the right to enter the country with an identity card or valid passport.
The northern part of Cyprus is legally part of the EU, but law is suspended due to it being under the control of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which the EU does not recognise. The North uses the Turkish lira instead of the euro, although the euro circulates alongside the lira and other currencies.
British and US passport holders do not need advance visas for North Cyprus (TRNC) and a 90-day stay is permitted to all visitors. Up-to-date requirements for entering North Cyprus can be found at mfa.gov.ct.tr.
North Cyprus uses the Turkish Lira (TL), so prices are approximately 30% cheaper than in Euro zone countries and south Cyprus. North Cyprus has a 240v electricity supply and uses British 3-pin rectangular blade plugs, so you don't have to take an adaptor for UK electrical device, mobile phone chargers etc.
Flights to the airport are banned internationally due to the ongoing Cyprus dispute. Non-stop flights only take place from Turkey, and all planes that fly to Northern Cyprus from other countries have to stop over in Turkey.
US passport holders do not require a visa to enter Cyprus for a stay of up to 90 days. The Embassy can only issue visas to individuals intending to visit Cyprus for vacation or business purposes. The validity of the stay cannot exceed 90 days within any 180 days.
This right to freedom of movement is guaranteed by Article 21 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU (TFEU). EU and EEA Citizens entering Cyprus to work or stay or remain as visitors for more than 3 months on the island need to register for a residence permit for EU citizens.
Travel within Cyprus
You can use any crossing point to move between the north and south of the island. The crossing point at Ledra Palace and Ledra/Lokmaci Street can only be used by pedestrians. See a list of the crossing points from the Cyprus Ministry of Finance.
Is North Cyprus under sanctions?
An international embargo against Northern Cyprus is currently in place in several areas. The embargo is supported by the policy of the United Nations and its application by the European Union is in line with a European Court of Justice (ECJ) decision taken in 1994.
The northern part of Cyprus has been administered by Turkish Cypriots since 1974 and proclaimed itself the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” (“TRNC”) in 1983.
Northern Cyprus occupies 1 third of the island inhabited by Turkish Cypriots, and Southern Cyprus occupies 2 thirds of the island inhabited by Greek Cypriots. The population of Northern Cyprus has 300 thousand inhabitants, who are mainly Muslim, have Turkish culture, cuisine and traditions.
North Cyprus must be one of the least expensive places to live in the Mediterranean. It is exceptionally good value when compared to living costs in the UK. Electric, water and council tax are relatively inexpensive making your Pound go further.
Yes, Cyprus is generally considered safe for female travellers, including those travelling on their own. Crime rates are low but personal attacks, including sexual assault, do happen.
Security. The security index in South Cyprus is 58% to 78% and the crime rate in this country is 22% to 42%, while the security index in North Cyprus is 87% to 92% and the crime rate in this country is The country is between 8% and 13%.
Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) not only has a reputation as one of the safest countries in the world, it also has year-round beautiful Mediterranean weather and the luxury of being rich in natural and cultural beauty.
Northern Cyprus is generally considered safe for property investment. However, as with any investment, it's important to conduct thorough research, seek expert advice, and stay updated on the local political and economic situation.
North Cyprus also offers a really relaxed life in retirement. Here you can spend your days by the pool or the beach, working in the garden or trying out different restaurants, going on a wine tasting or a spa day. But if you want to be active at the same time, there is absolutely a lot to do and get involved in.
All foreigners who wish to stay in the TRNC for more than 90 days, are required to obtain a residence permit. Entry to and departure from the TRNC is possible through designated ports and border crossings with a valid passport or travel document.
Can tourists cross from south to north Cyprus?
Tourists travelling from the South to the North of Cyprus usually land at either Paphos or Larnaca Airports – Most of those heading North landing at Larnaca because it is closer to North Cyprus border. The most used crossing is at the Nicosia (Lefkosa) named Agios Dometios (Metehan).
Northern Cyprus' Mediterranean climate means it has mild winters and sunny, dry summers by the coast. In the more mountainous regions, the climate is cooler. The island clocks approximately 320 sunny days per year or an average of 2,700 to 3,500 hours of sunshine per year.
The official currency in Northern Cyprus is the Turkish Lira, which comprises of 100 new Kurus. The British Pound is traditionally strong against the Turkish Lira, which is why villa holidays in North Cyprus are great value for money at the moment.
2.50 to 3 euros for beer. you can get a gassy pint for as little as 2 euros but a good bar around 2.50 -350 euros.
The 90 days out of 180 days stay rule is a policy that applies to foreign citizens who are traveling to Turkey on a tourist or short-term business visa. It allows these individuals to stay in the country for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
References
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