Flow through TRNC checkpoints exceeded 1.5 million people in three months

In the first quarter of 2026, more than 1.5 million people passed through the land border crossings of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Despite a decrease in the number of Greek Cypriots crossing the border, the activity of Turkish Cypriots at the checkpoints has notably increased.

According to the Department of Tourism Planning data, from January to March, 1,556,533 people entered the TRNC, and 1,558,074 exited. Of the total arrivals, 752,295 were TRNC citizens, 470,438 were citizens of the Republic of Cyprus, and 333,800 were foreigners.

Statistics show that the total number of foreign visitors, excluding TRNC citizens, decreased by 15.1% compared to the same period in 2025 — from 946,995 to 804,238 people. The most significant decrease was recorded among visitors from Israel, France, Greece, and the UK.

The number of Israeli citizens crossing land checkpoints decreased by 42.8% — from 13,018 to 7,444 people. The flow from France decreased by 35.4%, from Greece by 20.4%, and from the UK by 16.3%.

At the same time, growth was observed in several countries. The number of visitors from Germany increased by 18.8% to 28,046 people, and from Poland by 18.5%, reaching 32,526. Significant growth was also noted among citizens of Nigeria, Macedonia, and Tunisia, although absolute figures remain relatively small.

Currently, nine land checkpoints are operational, including Metehan, Ledra Palace, Lokmaci, Deryneia, and Bostanci. Throughout 2025, more than 7.6 million crossings were registered through these points.

Statistical data show a change in the flow structure: the number of crossings by TRNC citizens remains high and stable, while the flow from the Republic of Cyprus and several European countries is declining. Experts attribute this to rising travel costs, changing tourist routes, and the general economic situation in the region.