Planning to study in North Cyprus in 2025? Learn how to get a student visa step-by-step, from university admission to TRNC residence permit, including documents, fees, and timelines. northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io
North Cyprus is home to over 20 internationally recognized universities offering affordable, English-taught programs — but before packing your bags, you’ll need to sort out one important detail: your student visa.
The process is relatively simple compared to other countries, but it does involve multiple steps once you arrive. Here’s your step-by-step guide to obtaining a student visa and residence permit for North Cyprus in 2025.
Step 1: Apply and Get Accepted by a University
Before anything else, you must be accepted to a recognized university in North Cyprus. Some of the top institutions include:
- Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU)
- Near East University
- Cyprus International University (CIU)
- University of Kyrenia
- European University of Lefke
📝 Most universities require:
- High school diploma (for undergrads) or university degree (for postgrads)
- Passport copy
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or placement test)
- Application fee (€35–€100)
Once accepted, you’ll receive a conditional or unconditional offer letter — this will be your primary visa document.
Step 2: Travel to North Cyprus on a Tourist Visa
Unlike most countries, you do not apply for a student visa before arrival.
Instead:
- You enter North Cyprus on a tourist visa
- At Ercan Airport (or via land from South Cyprus), you show your acceptance letter
- Immigration grants you a short stay (usually 30–90 days) for “education purposes”
✅ This allows you to complete your student registration and apply for a residence permit once you’re on campus.
Step 3: Complete University Registration
Once you arrive:
- Pay your tuition deposit (if not already paid)
- Register at your university’s international office
- Receive a student certificate (proof of enrollment)
This certificate is required for the next step — applying for your residence permit.
Step 4: Apply for a Student Residence Permit
In North Cyprus, the student visa is essentially your residence permit issued after university registration. You must apply within your initial visa period.
Here’s how:
📱 1. Register on the Immigration Portal
- Website: https://permissions.gov.ct.tr
- Create an account and upload your details
📋 2. Upload Required Documents
- Passport copy
- Student certificate from your university
- Health report (from a local TRNC hospital or clinic)
- Proof of address in North Cyprus
- Recent photo
💳 3. Pay the Fees
- Health insurance: ~€30–€50
- Visa card/residence fee: ~€60–€80 (varies by nationality)
After successful processing, your student residence permit is issued digitally and linked to your passport.
Step 5: Renew Your Permit Each Year
Your student residence permit is valid for 1 academic year and must be renewed annually.
To renew:
- You’ll need an updated student certificate
- Repeat the health check and portal upload
- Pay the annual fee again
Additional Tips for the Visa Process
✅ Start early: Begin your university application process at least 2–3 months before semester start
✅ Keep copies: Print and carry all important documents with you when traveling
✅ Follow up: Some steps may require waiting a few days, especially for health tests
✅ Don’t overstay: Without a valid permit, you may be fined or deported upon exit
What Happens If You Overstay or Skip the Permit?
❌ Overstaying your tourist visa without applying for the residence permit can result in:
- Daily fines (around €20 per day)
- Issues re-entering the country
- Delays in university registration or graduation
Always follow the legal steps — it’s easier and safer in the long run.
Summary: Student Visa Process for North Cyprus (2025)
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Apply and get admission to a university |
| Step 2 | Enter North Cyprus with your offer letter |
| Step 3 | Register at the university and receive student certificate |
| Step 4 | Apply online for student residence permit |
| Step 5 | Renew permit every academic year |
Final Thoughts
Compared to other countries, North Cyprus offers a straightforward and affordable visa process for students. As long as you follow the steps after arrival, getting your residence permit is stress-free and quick.
Thousands of students complete this process each year and go on to enjoy a safe, affordable, and multicultural university experience on the island. northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io