Shipping License Fees in the TRNC Increase by 167%
As the new year begins, Northern Cyprus has seen a dramatic rise in the cost of obtaining a maritime navigation license, with fees increasing by nearly 167%.
The steep price hike quickly drew attention on social media. According to residents, the fee for a shipping license, which stood at 4,285 Turkish Lira in 2024, has skyrocketed to 11,440 Turkish Lira in 2025—a staggering 166.97% increase.
Unsurprisingly, the sharp rise has sparked widespread frustration and criticism among TRNC citizens. This isn’t the only price hike to take effect recently. Earlier reports revealed that the cost of obtaining a driver’s license has also gone up, along with parking fees in central Lefkoşa.
Author
Born in 1984 in Russia, in the city of Yekaterinburg (Sverdlovsk region). Since 2023, he has been living in Northern Cyprus. Education: Ural State University (UrGU, now UrFU), Faculty of Journalism. Specialization – journalist (2007). Professional experience: From 2003 to 2023, he worked in…
