Migration amnesty being prepared in Northern Cyprus

The authorities of Northern Cyprus are preparing amendments to the law on foreigners and migration, which provide for the introduction of a migration amnesty for people staying in the country without a valid status.

According to the initiative, after the law comes into force, foreigners will be able to submit an online application to the migration authorities within 45 days and pay a fixed amount equal to one minimum wage.

After submitting the application, they will be granted another 60 days to formalize a legal status — for example, obtaining a student or work permit or a residence permit.

Currently, a fine is charged for each day of overstaying, which has led to the accumulation of large debts for many foreigners, especially students and graduates.

It is expected that the amnesty will cover a wide range of people — tourists, students, workers, and other foreigners outside the registration system. It can also be used by people who are abroad but have close relatives in Northern Cyprus, as well as those previously deported for migration violations.

The authorities state that the goal of the initiative is to reduce the number of illegal residents, lower the debt burden, and increase the level of security.

For many foreigners, this could be an opportunity to legalize their status without leaving the country and without accumulated fines.