North Cyprus launches a new era in migration control with fingerprinting at key entry points and the creation of a national migration database. Here’s what to expect in 2025–2026.
A new era in migration management has officially begun in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), as the country takes concrete steps to strengthen border control and tackle irregular migration.
Speaking at a press conference, Minister of Interior Dursun Oğuz unveiled key details of the newly established Migration Management Center, which will serve as the main coordination hub for migration oversight across the country. investra.io, northcyprusinvestment.com
🔍 Fingerprinting Now Active at Key Entry Points
As part of this effort, fingerprint data collection has already begun for specific travelers identified as “insistent passengers” — individuals flagged for further scrutiny — at the following locations:
- Ercan Airport
- Port of Gazimağusa (Famagusta)
- Port of Girne (Kyrenia)
This initiative marks a significant shift in how North Cyprus screens international arrivals, combining technology, data tracking, and biometric verification to enhance national security.
📅 What’s Next: Expansion to All Travelers by 2026
Minister Oğuz announced that by 2026, fingerprinting will be expanded to cover all travelers entering the country, not just those marked for additional inspection. The move aims to:
- Strengthen legal entry controls
- Help track overstays or visa violations
- Curb the rise in irregular migration patterns
🎓 Domestic Measures to Begin with Foreign Students
On the domestic side, the Minister confirmed that mobile fingerprinting operations will begin within the country—starting with foreign students. This initiative is supported by newly donated official vehicles that will help immigration teams collect and centralize biometric data.
🗂️ Building a National Migration Database
Perhaps most significantly, the Ministry is now working on the creation of a national data pool, which will store and analyze biometric and entry-exit data for all individuals subject to migration control. This centralized system is expected to enhance:
- Background checks
- Border monitoring
- Integration with law enforcement and visa systems
✅ Conclusion: A Strategic Shift in Migration Policy
With the launch of the Migration Management Center and the rollout of new biometric tracking systems, North Cyprus is entering a new phase of migration governance—one that balances security, data protection, and international cooperation.
As the country prepares for full-scale implementation by 2026, visitors, students, and residents alike should stay informed about new procedures and documentation requirements at borders and within the country.