Sharp increase in residence permit fees strains budgets of international students in Northern Cyprus

LEFKOSIA — International students in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) are voicing frustration over a steep rise in the annual fees required to renew residence permits, saying the increased costs are placing a heavy burden on already limited student budgets.

According to students’ reports and official payment receipts shared recently, the combined cost of health and tax payments for residence permit renewals has nearly doubled compared to last year — rising from around ₺5,000 in 2024 to approximately ₺9,758 in 2025.

Recent bank receipts and SMS confirmations show that students are now paying:

- ₺8,704.34 to the Ministry of Health, and

- ₺1,053.70 to the Revenue and Tax Department, bringing the total cost to ₺9,758.04.

Students say that while the previous year’s total hovered around ₺5,000, this year’s jump — particularly due to higher laboratory and health screening fees — has become unsustainable.

“On top of tuition, rent, and daily expenses, these mandatory payments are overwhelming,” one student said, urging authorities to reconsider the new rates.

Many international students are required to renew their residence permits annually in order to continue studying legally in the TRNC. The sharp increase in fees has prompted concern among student associations, which have signaled plans to bring the issue to the attention of authorities.

Student representatives are calling for a review of the current fee structure and more affordable arrangements for foreign students, warning that the current costs could deter new applicants and create financial hardship for those already studying in Northern Cyprus.