The process of obtaining a residence permit (RP) in Northern Cyprus is an exciting, but sometimes lengthy adventure that can last for several months. One of the most common questions that applicants have is: “Is it possible to leave the island if the residence permit status is, for example, 60%?” Let's figure out what to do if your plans require leaving, but your residence permit status has not yet been completed.
Steps on the path to the coveted residence permit: stages of progress
Each applicant goes through several stages, and the system displays them as a percentage as progress towards achieving the goal:
• 20% — you submitted documents online and are waiting for a visit to the police with the original documents.
• 50% — you visited the police, handed over your documents.
• 60% — you have passed the medical examination and paid for the tests.
• 70% — test results have been received, a state fee must be paid.
• 100% — happy completion of the process, obtaining a residence permit.
Going through all stages requires not only time, but also your participation. Now about the most exciting thing - is it possible to interrupt this path and leave the country?
Conditions for departure at different stages of residence permit
At 20%: “It’s early, stay put”
If your documents have been submitted online, but you have not yet passed the police check (20% status), you cannot leave Northern Cyprus. At this stage, your presence is necessary for subsequent stages of registration.
At levels 50% and 60%: “Departure is possible, but with nuances”
At 50% and 60% statuses, departure is possible, but it is important to follow certain rules:
1. Departure with 60% status more than 60 days after the police visit: If you have been in 60% status for more than two months, you need to visit the Ministry of Internal Affairs in Nicosia before leaving. They will confirm your progress, otherwise the registration of a residence permit will be suspended until your return.
2. Departure with 60% status within the first 60 days after submitting documents to the police: In this case, no additional approvals are needed. At the border, it will be enough to show proof of 60% status to safely leave the island.
The situation is similar for the 50% level: you can leave the country, but be sure to return on time to take tests and pay for them in order to avoid delays in processing.
It is important to remember the fines for overstaying your visa
If your visa has expired and the residence permit has not yet been issued, then you will have to pay a fine upon departure. The fine is calculated based on the minimum daily wage multiplied by the number of days of delay.
Conclusions: how to avoid surprises and successfully leave the island
It is possible to leave Northern Cyprus with a residence permit status of 60% if you meet certain requirements. Follow the instructions and everything will go smoothly!
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. Is it possible to leave with a residence permit status of 60% without additional approvals?
Yes, if less than 60 days have passed since submitting the documents to the police, you can leave without additional visits to the Ministry. If more than 60 days have passed, a visit to the Ministry is mandatory.
2. What should I do if I need to leave, but the residence permit has not yet been fully issued?
You can leave, but keep in mind that the registration of a residence permit will be suspended until you return. Try to complete as many steps as possible, especially the medical examination and payment of state fees, to speed up the process.
3. Is it possible to extend the deadline for taking tests and paying the fee at the 50% stage?
Usually the deadlines are fixed, and 14 days are allotted for testing after moving to the 50% stage. If you leave at this point, be sure to return in time to complete the necessary steps, otherwise the process may be delayed.
4. Do I need to notify any authorities before leaving at the 60% stage?
If less than 60 days have passed since the documents were submitted to the police, no notification is required. Otherwise, it is recommended to visit the Ministry to avoid possible delays.
5. What is the penalty for overstaying a visa if the residence permit is still in the process of being issued?
A fine is charged for each day of delay. It is calculated based on the daily minimum wage and multiplied by the number of days after the visa expires.
By following this guide, you can avoid unforeseen difficulties when leaving Northern Cyprus and successfully continue obtaining a residence permit.
