NOTE: This guide was last updated on January 2025. Please check the authenticity and validity of the information on this website before proceeding with your visa application. Use Timatic and the official sources we provided on this page for the most up-to-date information.

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Visa Information

A lesser-known gem in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is a destination where you can find it all! From water sports to magnificent scenery, this tiny island country offers you an unforgettable journey.

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus?

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus offers nationals of almost all countries visa-free entry. Foreigners who would like to travel to Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus must apply for an entry visa with valid travel documents at the designated ports.

The only exception to this policy is the nationals of the Syrian Arab Republic, the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Armenia. Citizens of those countries need to apply in person to a consular mission of the TRNC. It should also be noted that obtaining a visa from TRNC missions abroad does not guarantee entry to TRNC. It is within the discretion of the Immigration Officer at the designated ports and border crossings to permit one to enter the country.

Visitors can stay for up to 90 days in total within 180 days with an issued visa. Those who wish to stay for more than 90 days must get a residence permit.

Have you secured your flight to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus? If not, Pegasus Airlines’ affordable flight tickets are perfect for a comfy and budget-friendly trip. You can check our Northern Cyprus travel guide for insightful tips for the destination. Besides there is a Lefkosia travel guide for visitors traveling to the capital city of the TRNC.

Did you book a flight to Cyprus?

While citizens of almost all countries can travel to TRNC without a visa, visas are required at designated entry points with valid travel documents. Citizens of Syria, Nigeria and Armenia can not benefit from this facility and must apply to the TRNC consulates. By booking your flight ticket to Lefkosia in advance, you can benefit from early booking advantages and make your visa process easier. It should also be noted that the visa obtained from TRNC foreign missions does not guarantee entry into the country.

You may also be interested in these articles:

Northern Cyprus travel guide

Lefkosia Travel Guide

Northern Cyprus Visa Types

Depending on the purpose of your visit to Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, you’ll need to apply for different visa types. You can find the most common TRNC visas below.

Northern Cyprus Tourist Visa

Tourist visa for Northern Cyprus is given to third country nationals who would like to visit the island for tourism and entertainment related purposes. Hotel reservations or rental documents should be enclosed to the application for stays up to 90 days.

Tourist visas are issued for a maximum of 30 days. If further proof demonstrating that prior payments are made for prolonged accommodation can be presented, visas can be issued for up to 90 days.

Northern Cyprus Visa for Visit to Family, Relatives and Friends

Travels to Northern Cyprus is possible with the purpose of visiting family, friends, or close relatives. The applicant can submit a short-stay travel visa request accompanied with a valid invitation letter. Visas are issued for up to 60 days in this case.

Northern Cyprus Visa for Short-Term Education and Traineeship

Foreign nationals who would like to visit Northern Cyprus for short-term education or training purposes can also apply for a short-stay travel visa. However, an official acceptance letter from the university or higher education institution is required. Entry visa for up to 90 days are given for trainings, student exchange programs, internships, etc. Graduates of universities in Northern Cyprus can be granted a visa that will be valid or 30 days. Visa holders must apply for a residence permit for an extended stay.

Residence Permit Visa

A residence permit visa grants its holder the right to enter to Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus to apply for a residence permit.

Work permit visas are given for 30 days to those who have preliminary permits in line with the Law on Work Permits of Foreigners. Nationals of countries who do not have any official representatives in Northern Cyprus must be in possession of passports valid for a minimum of two years in order to apply for work permit visas. Also, third world country citizens who would like to start a business in Northern Cyprus can apply for a 30-day visa if they obtain the adequate funds.

Additionally, the visa for ownership of immovable property in Northern Cyprus is issued for stays up to 90 days. Nationals of third world countries who would like to extend their stay in Northern Cyprus must apply for a residence permit, before the expiry date of the period indicated in their visa. Visas for family residence permit, student residence permit or scientific research can also be granted upon request.

General Requirements to Apply for Northern Cyprus Visa

• A valid passport,
• Proof of sufficient financial means,
• Proof of accommodation,
• Declaration of purpose of visit,
• (If travelling for internship) Course or student exchange program, a formal letter from the inviting institution
• (If traveling for higher education) An official acceptance letter from the university
• (If visiting family) A letter of invitation which provides name, address, phone number and other contact information
• (If traveling on a business trip) An official letter of invitation from a company in the TRNC
• (If travelling for touristic purpose) A reservation or a rental document for the stays from 30 to 90 days.

Northern Cyprus Visa Rules

You can find some of the rules regarding TRNC visa below:

• Citizens of Syria, Nigeria, and Armenia are required to process their visa applications in person.
• Visa applications are usually concluded in three days. However, it is advised to submit applications at least one month prior to your travel date.
• Citizens of other countries may obtain their visas at the border from Immigration Officers.
• Flights to Northern Cyprus are connected from Thus, travellers may need a transit visa from the Republic of Turkey depending on their nationality of origin.
• Visitors travelling from the southern side of the island also need to submit the above-mentioned documents to obtain a visa on arrival.

Northern Cyprus Visa requirements for Turkish Citizens

Turkish citizens can visit the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus without any visa requirements. A valid passport or identity card is needed.

Northern Cyprus visa for citizens of the EU and Schengen area

Citizens coming from European countries can travel to Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus with their passports or identity cards for stays that are not exceeding three months.

Northern Cyprus Visa requirement for US, UK, and Canadian citizens

Citizens of the USA, UK, and Canada can travel to TRNC without a visa.