Can Foreigners Buy Property in North Cyprus?
2026 Updated Legal Guide
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has introduced significant legal reforms in 2024 and 2025, creating a real estate market that is safer, more transparent, and more sustainable.
For international investors seeking a lifestyle and investment opportunity in the heart of the Mediterranean with the Sun Valley privilege, this guide outlines the current legal framework and key procedures applicable as of 2026.
Property Ownership Conditions for Foreign Nationals
Under TRNC law, foreigners are legally entitled to purchase property, subject to certain limitations. The most important points introduced by the recent regulations are as follows:
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Property Ownership Limit:
Foreign nationals (excluding citizens of the Republic of Türkiye) are entitled to purchase one residential property or one house built on a plot of up to one donum of land.
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Flexibility for Turkish Citizens:
Citizens of the Republic of Türkiye benefit from a special regulation allowing them to purchase up to three residential properties.
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Purchasing Within Gated Communities (Sun Valley Projects):
Foreign buyers may purchase apartments or detached villas within gated developments such as Sun Valley Mountainside or Sun Valley Seaside.
However, foreign investors are permitted to acquire a maximum of two detached villas, provided they remain within the overall legal quota.
Step-by-Step Property Purchase Process
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Sales Contract and Registration
Once the property is selected, a sales contract is signed in the presence of an independent local lawyer.
The contract must be registered with the Land Registry Office within 21 days of signing.
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Taxes and Fees
Under the updated legislation, 6% of the property transfer tax is payable upfront at the time of contract registration.
The total transfer tax rate for foreign buyers is 12%.
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Council of Ministers Purchase Permission (PTP)
Foreign nationals are required to obtain Permission to Purchase from the Council of Ministers.
This approval process typically takes 6 to 12 months.
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Title Deed Transfer
Following approval, the title deed transfer must be completed within 6 months.
The Sun Valley Advantage & Legal Assurance
At Sun Valley, we understand that our investors are not just purchasing a property, but securing a peaceful and reliable future.
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Independent Legal Support
Our partnered independent law firms handle all title deed checks, contract registrations, and Council of Ministers applications on your behalf.
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Residency Permit Advantage
Upon registration of the sales contract, the process for obtaining a legal residency permit in the TRNC can be initiated.
As of 2026, residency procedures for property owners have become more digitalized and significantly faster.
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Secure & High-Value Investments
Our completed villages at Sun Valley Mountainside and our beachfront ongoing developments at Sun Valley Seaside offer:
Important Legal Notice
Following the post-2024 regulatory changes:
are now enforced more strictly.
All Sun Valley projects fully comply with these regulations and are located in legally secure zones for foreign investors.