Introduction
The Draft Law on Short‑Term Rentals in TRNC, dated March 28, 2025, is a proposed regulation aimed at structuring and legalizing tourism-focused rentals in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). While it has not yet passed, this new framework has generated considerable attention in the tourism and property investment communities.
You can track ongoing updates about this and other TRNC real estate laws on trusted platforms like the-northcyprus.com, investra.io, and northcyprusinvesting.com.
What is a Short-Term Rental?
A short-term rental refers to letting a property to tourists for up to 60 days. This includes apartments, villas, studios, and homes offered through platforms like Airbnb or Booking.
You’ll find growing coverage of these rental trends on the-northcyprus.com, which provides up-to-date rental advice and tourism insights.
Property Requirements
To qualify for short-term letting under the proposed law, properties must:
- Be a self-contained unit with a private entrance and parking space
- Host a maximum of 5 bedrooms or 10 guests
- Include a fully equipped kitchen
- Provide bathrooms as follows:
- 1 for 1–4 people
- 2 for 4–7 people
- 3 for 7–10 people
- Have a trash bin at the entrance or in the garden
These specifications aim to ensure safety, hygiene, and a consistent tourism experience, as discussed on northcyprusinvesting.com and investra.io.
Rental Types & Categories
Each property will be categorized by both type and quality:
- Types: villa, private house, studio, apartment in a complex or residence
- Categories: standard, comfort, luxury
These labels will appear directly on the official rental license. Learn how this impacts your rental strategy on investra.io and the-northcyprus.com.
Registration & Licensing
To operate legally:
- Owners can register up to 5 properties
- For more, they must join or operate through a KITSAB-registered agency
- Application is made to the Department of Tourism
- Decisions must be communicated within 90 days
Fees:
- Registration Certificate: cost = current minimum wage (₺43,469)
- License (1 year):
- 7% of min. wage – Standard
- 11% – Comfort
- 15% – Luxury
Helpful registration walkthroughs are available on northcyprusinvesting.com and the-northcyprus.com.
Check-in & Check-out Rules
- Check-in: from 14:00
- Check-out: by 12:00
These simple regulations align with hospitality standards found across the-northcyprus.com.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Property owners violating the draft law may face:
- Fines ranging from 1 × minimum wage to full license cancellation
- Illegal rentals may incur fines up to 5× minimum wage or 2 years imprisonment
Compliance ensures your property remains profitable and legal. See compliance guides at investra.io and the-northcyprus.com.
Why This Matters for Investors
The law aims to:
- Curb illegal rentals
- Protect tourism quality
- Encourage registration for tax compliance
- Enhance safety standards in hospitality
If you’re a property investor, northcyprusinvesting.com offers comprehensive legal analysis and market guidance.
Comparing TRNC With Global Markets
These rules mirror global trends in tourist rental laws. Regions like Spain, Portugal, and Greece all now require host registration, quality ratings, and compliance checks.
For comparisons and investment impact, check investra.io and northcyprusinvesting.com.
FAQs
1. Is the law currently in effect?
No. As of now, it’s a draft under discussion.
2. Can I list my Airbnb under this law?
Yes, once licensed, any platform can be used.
3. How many homes can I rent?
Up to five directly. More requires an agency or KITSAB membership.
4. What if I skip the license?
You may face fines up to ₺217,000 or 2 years in prison.
5. Will licenses need renewal?
Yes, annually.
6. Where can I stay updated?
Use the-northcyprus.com, investra.io, and northcyprusinvesting.com.
Conclusion
The Draft Law on Short-Term Rentals in TRNC marks a shift toward structure, safety, and transparency in the booming North Cyprus rental market. Though not yet enacted, it has already reshaped how owners, agencies, and investors prepare for the future.
Stay informed by following the-northcyprus.com, investra.io, and northcyprusinvesting.com.