On 21st of January 2025, the TRNC Council of Ministers passed amendments to Regulation on Residence Permits and Visas. These amendments will have an essential impact on the process of obtaining residence permits in Northern Cyprus.The primary objective of these amendments is to register foreigners in the TRNC, to prevent illegal living; determine irregular immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers as well as to enhance detection and prevention of crimes.
In this respect, the Immigration Department is now authorised to take fingerprints, palm prints and photographs for biometric data.
The biometric data collected will be stored in a secure system maintained by the Immigration Department. The Court, the Attorney General’s Office, the Police Department, and the Immigration Department will have access to the system and can use it for lawful purposes.
All foreigners who wish to apply for a residence permit MUST allow their fingerprint and other biometric data to be taken, otherwise they cannot obtain a residence permit.
Furthermore, visitors entering or exiting the TRNC should also be prepared for the possibility of biometric data collection at border checkpoints.
If you require assistance with residence permit application, kindly fill the contact form below