How to obtain a Turkish Cyprus visa?

Turkish Cyprus has a unique tourist attraction that combines historical heritage and picturesque nature. Visitors can explore ancient cities such as Famagusta and Kyrenia, where the cultural and historical influence is evident in the monuments and attractions. The green North Island has golden beaches and clear waters, making it an ideal destination for sun and sea lovers. Visitors can also enjoy diving and explore the rich coral reefs. Traditional restaurants and cafes serve delicious local cuisine, which makes the tourism experience in Turkish Cyprus unique and special.

Ways to obtain a Turkish Cyprus visa

There are two ways to reach Turkish Cyprus, the first involves obtaining a Turkish visa from the Turkish embassy, and then traveling to Turkish Cyprus via Arkan Airport. As for the second method, you must obtain a Cyprus visa from the Cypriot consulate in the south, and then you can enter Turkish Cyprus through Larnaca Airport or any of the checkpoints at the border crossings.

Knowing that the Republic of Northern Cyprus is not officially recognized, and when traveling there without a visa, your country's airport may prevent you from leaving. Due to the lack of an official entry permit called “Turkish Cyprus Visa”, some individuals consider that traveling to Turkish Cyprus does not require a visa.

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Turkish Cyprus visa via Türkiye

To reach Turkish Cyprus via Turkey, you must obtain a tourist visa for Turkey, a residence visa or a work visa. A Türkiye visa is issued to you by the Turkish embassy and is marked with the Cyprus code (kktc). Turkish airlines, such as Pegasus, Anadolu and Turkish Airlines, are the main options to reach Arkan Lefkosa Airport, as no other airlines are available.

Upon arrival at Argan Airport, visitors are asked to fill in their personal details on a small white sheet of paper, which is stamped upon entry and is best kept for the duration of the visit.

However, it is worth noting that obtaining a visa from Turkish embassies abroad does not necessarily mean entry into Turkish Cyprus, as immigration officers at crossing points retain the authority to accept or deny entry to Northern Cyprus.

Turkish Cyprus visa via South Cyprus

To apply for a visa to South Cyprus, you must visit the Cypriot embassy in your country and submit a visa application. During the meeting with the visa officer, you will be asked to present your documents and answer his questions about the details of your trip, the reason for your visit to Cyprus and the planned length of stay.

It is preferable to submit your visa application at least one month before your scheduled travel date, and it takes up to 3 business days to process applications. It is recommended to book an appointment with the embassy before submitting your visa application.

If you intend to travel to North Cyprus via South Cyprus, you can cross the border through Turkish Cypriot passport checkpoints, which remain open around the clock. Foreigners are granted a visa for up to 90 days, and those wishing to stay longer are required to obtain a residence permit.

When entering and exiting Turkish Cyprus, you must carry a valid passport and the type and duration of the visa will be stamped on the passport at the border.

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Turkish Cyprus entry requirements

To enter Turkish Cyprus, travelers are required in all cases to present the following documents to immigration officers at points of entry:

1. A passport valid for at least 6 months. Or a valid ID card in the case of Turkish, European Union or Schengen Area nationalities.
   
   
2. In the case of travel for tourist purposes, a return flight reservation and a hotel reservation must be submitted, in addition to proof of financial ability to cover accommodation, transportation, and return expenses.
   
   
3. If the purpose of travel is for internship or enrollment in a student exchange course or programme, an official letter from the inviting party must be submitted.
   
   
4. In the case of undergraduate studies, a final official letter of acceptance from the university must be submitted.
   
   
5. If traveling to visit family, a letter of invitation containing contact information and residential address must be submitted.
   
   
6. If the purpose of travel is business, an official invitation from the Turkish Cyprus company is required.
   
   
7. Proof of sufficient financial means to cover the period of stay and repatriation must be provided.

Period of stay in North Cyprus with a tourist visa

Visitors wishing to visit Northern Cyprus can obtain a visa with a maximum stay of 30 days. If documents are submitted proving payment in advance for a long stay in a hotel, a visa extending for up to 90 days can be granted.

Types of Turkish Cyprus visa and periods of residence

Periods of stay in Turkish Cyprus vary according to visa types, ranging from 30 days to 90 days. The following is an explanation of the types of visas and permitted periods:

1. Tourist visa:

- For those traveling for tourism purposes and wishing to stay in a hotel or other facility, a visa can be issued for a maximum of 30 days.

- If documents are submitted proving an advance payment for accommodation in a hotel or other location, a visa of up to 90 days may be granted.

2. Visa for family and official visits:

- A visa can be issued for up to 60 days for family visits, and up to 90 days for official visits and other official purposes.

3. Training and exchange programs visa:

- Travelers interested in internships or exchange programs are allowed to stay for up to 90 days, upon submission of official letters of acceptance.

4. Work permit visa:

- It is granted for 30 days, and citizens of countries that do not have diplomatic representation in Turkish Cyprus require a passport valid for at least two years.

5. Company establishment visa:

- Travelers wishing to establish a business can obtain a 30-day visa, provided they have the necessary funds to start the business.

Where can individuals obtain a Turkish Cyprus visa?

For citizens coming from the Syrian Arab Republic, the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Republic of Armenia, they must visit the embassy, representative office or consulate general of the TRNC abroad to obtain the required visa before traveling.

As for citizens of other countries, they can obtain a visa upon arrival through immigration officers at designated ports and border crossings.

It is worth noting that obtaining a visa from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus’ representations abroad does not necessarily guarantee entry, as this depends on the discretion of immigration officials at the designated border crossings and ports.

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