Frequently Asked Questions


Living in Northern Cyprus

  1. Banking
    All types of banking services are provided and they are flexible enough to satisfy the continually diversifying needs of the business community. HSBC Bank has now opened branches in Nicosia and Kyrenia.
  2. Dining out
    There is a huge selection of excellent restaurants in the north, ranging from authentic Cypriot cuisine to Chinese, Indian, Italian and Thai.
  3. Driving
    As in the UK, traffic circulation is on the left and road signs are international. You can drive with your UK license for a period of 3 months, following which you will need to apply for a permanent TRNC driving license. There is a large selection of car hire companies with a variety of vehicles at favourable rates, from £10 per day in the winter to £15+ in the peak season.
  4. Education
    General education standards in the TRNC are of a very high standard and are borne out by the fact that there are four universities based in Northern Cyprus. The majority of schools offer bilingual education starting with kindergarten through secondary school and finally university.
  5. Flights
    Ercan is the main airport and has recently undergone a facelift. At the moment all flights fly into Ercan travel via Turkey but plans are underway for direct flights into Ercan from Europe. The main carrier is Cyprus Turkish Airlines, and Turkish Airlines via connecting flight from Istanbul. Alternatively you can fly direct to Larnsca Airport in Southern Cyprus and get a coach or taxi to your destination.
  6. Foreign Exchange
    Foreign currency accounts can be opened with local banks, and foreign currency can be brought into the country and taken out through the banks without any restriction or control, and the source of such income is not investigated. It should be noted that the Government are actively encouraging the formation of offshore banks by foreign investors, and are offering incentives such as relatively low set-up capital, low corporation and income tax etc.
  7. Language
    Turkish is the official. language and English is the second language, and is widely used and understood in official and commercial circles.
  8. Medical
    The cost of medical treatment in the local hospitals is lower than comparative care in the UK depending of course on the type of treatment required. Accident and emergency facilities are available at local hospitals. It is recommended that you seek a local GP, many of whom have had UK experience, for many minor ailments. Private health care is also available through a number of international medical insurance companies if required. Dental treatment is of a high standard and charges are moderate.
  9. Pets
    Yes, providing that they have the necessary vaccinations on their pet passport form. The Ministry of Agriculture require a certificate from a European vet stating that your animal is free of major diseases. They then spend a 4-week period in quarantine.
  10. Public Transport
    Taxis are reasonable priced. Ask for a price before you depart. There is also a collective taxi system mainly using minibuses known as Dolmus. Bus departures are frequent between big and smaller towns during the day. Public transport services are less frequent after 5pm and during the weekends.
  11. Time Difference
    Northern Cyprus is 2 hours ahead of UK GMT time.
  12. Visas
    A valid passport is required for entry to North Cyprus. British and the majority of Western Europeans receive an automatic 3 month visa on arrival. You can then apply for an extension to stay for longer or if you plan to settle permanently, apply for a residency permit.
  13. Voltage
    240 Volts. Plugs are in English standards.