5 Things to Know if You Want to Live in North Cyprus

1- Traffic flows on the left.

One of the situations that people who want to live in Northern Cyprus sometimes find difficult to get used to is that traffic flows on the left. Just like in the UK, traffic flows on the left and the steering wheel is on the right side of the vehicle. If you’re new to driving in Cyprus, this can be frustrating at first—especially during your first few minutes on the road and at your first intersection—but you’ll get used to it easily over time.

If you’re visiting Northern Cyprus on vacation and plan to rent a car, you should keep this in mind.

2- The streets are safe even at night.

Northern Cyprus is one of the countries with very low crime rates. In fact, Cypriots can go shopping or even visit friends without locking their doors. As a peaceful and safe Mediterranean country, the streets in Northern Cyprus are also quite safe at night. It doesn’t matter if you’re a woman or a man! If you want a worry-free life, living in Northern Cyprus is ideal for you.

3- Electrical outlets are of the British type.

In Northern Cyprus, electrical outlets follow the Type G standard, which is also the standard in countries like the United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, Malaysia, and Singapore. Since 3-pin 220-240 volt outlets are used, it would be helpful to have a Type G-compatible adapter with you.

However, you can easily purchase these adapters in Northern Cyprus as well.

4- 'Hellim cheese' is a misnomer.

Hellim, which is not only a staple of Cypriot breakfasts but also enjoyed grilled daily, ranks among the top local delicacies in Northern Cyprus. If you only know Hellim from its store-bought form, you’re missing out. Be sure to try Hellim from local producers in Northern Cyprus!

Although Hellim is a type of cheese, the phrase “Hellim Cheese” is not well-received by Cypriots. In fact, anyone who uses the term “Hellim Cheese” is considered a tourist. If you want to live in Northern Cyprus, you should definitely stop using this term :)

5- You can obtain a residence permit by purchasing a home in Cyprus.

One of the challenges faced by those dreaming of moving to or settling in Cyprus is how to obtain a residence permit. However, there’s a simple solution: buying property in Northern Cyprus. According to the law, if you purchase a residential property worth at least €125,000 in Northern Cyprus, obtaining a residence permit is quite straightforward. For detailed information on this, you can review the "Conditions for Granting Permanent Residence Permits" section on the Directorate of Migration Affairs’ website: http://www.muhaceret.gov.ct.tr/ikamet/Daimi