Obtaining a prior permit to work in northern cyprus

For legal employment in Northern Cyprus (TRNC), foreign citizens must obtain a preliminary work permit. This document is issued by the employer and serves as the first official step before applying for a work visa and actual employment.

Who issues the preliminary permit?

The preliminary permit is issued by the employer. At the time of application, the candidate must be legally present on the island — either under a visa-free tourist regime or with a residence permit (RP). The employer submits a request to the TRNC Ministry of Labor and Social Protection specifying the position, working conditions, and candidate information. The job posting is then published for two weeks to search for local employees, giving priority to TRNC citizens.

Procedure for obtaining the permit

1. The employer submits an application to the Ministry of Labor for permission to employ a foreigner, confirming the absence of local candidates.
2. After a two-week waiting period and no applicants from TRNC citizens, a preliminary permit is issued.
3. The applicant leaves Northern Cyprus (usually for two weeks to Turkey) and re-enters with the permit document.
4. It is recommended to print the permit, although the information is usually already recorded in the border services database.
5. After entry, the work visa application process begins, without which official employment is prohibited.

Special cases

• Ukrainian citizens, residents of affected areas of Turkey, and domestic workers are allowed to exit and enter Northern Cyprus through the land border with Southern Cyprus simultaneously.

Requirements and important points

• Entry to the TRNC territory must be with a passport with an entry visa.
• If the worker does not start employment at the specified position after arrival, the preliminary permit and the right to a work visa are canceled.
• A work visa is mandatory for official employment.
• Since 2025, when changing jobs within the same industry, obtaining a new work visa for foreign workers has been simplified.

Conclusion

Obtaining a preliminary work permit in Northern Cyprus is a mandatory step for the legal employment of foreign citizens. The procedure protects the interests of local workers and ensures official employment according to all regulations. For successful completion, it is recommended that the employer and the candidate strictly follow TRNC labor legislation and instructions.

For more detailed information and professional support in obtaining permits, consult specialists in Northern Cyprus immigration law.

"The preliminary work permit is the first and mandatory step toward legal employment of foreigners in Northern Cyprus, ensuring protection of the rights of all parties."

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