The TRNC has published a new Military Service Decree in the Official Gazette, introducing exemptions for dual nationals, updated paid service rules, and fairer regulations for citizens abroad.
📢 New Military Service Decree Published in TRNC
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has officially published a new Decree Having the Force of Law on Military Service in the Official Gazette, introducing several important reforms to ensure fairness and adapt to the needs of modern society.
According to the justification of the decree, the Constitution requires all citizens to fulfill their civic duty under the Military Service Law. However, amendments were necessary to address inequalities, especially for dual nationals and citizens abroad.
⚖️ Key Changes in TRNC Military Service
🔹 1. Exemptions for Dual Citizens
TRNC citizens who:
- Have already completed military service abroad,
- Are exempt in another country, or
- Come from countries without compulsory service,
will now be exempt from TRNC service by paying 5% of the minimum wage. This measure provides fairness while generating resources for the Security Forces Command.
🔹 2. Equal Rights for Citizens Abroad
Previously, TRNC citizens in the UK or Australia could benefit from paid military service, while those living in Turkey could not.
The removal of the clause excluding TRNC–Turkey dual nationals eliminates this inequality, granting equal rights for all citizens abroad, regardless of where they live.
🔹 3. Paid Military Service Amounts
Payment amounts for those performing paid military service under special status have been updated and standardized.
🔹 4. Citizens Abroad with Job Obligations
Those living abroad who cannot take sufficient leave for active service may now fulfill their duty by paying 15 times the minimum wage.
🔹 5. Citizens Who Emigrated After Age 12
TRNC citizens who moved abroad after age 12 and have resided abroad for 12 years after turning 18 will also be exempt by paying 15 times the minimum wage.
🎯 Goal of the Reforms
The government stressed that these reforms are designed to:
- Promote social justice,
- Remove long-standing inequalities, and
- Adapt military service to the realities of TRNC citizens living worldwide.
👉 These updates mark a major step in modernizing TRNC’s military service system, especially for dual nationals and citizens abroad. northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io