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Retirement in North Cyprus: Sea, Sun, Sand, and Luxury

Retirement in North Cyprus: Sea, Sun, Sand, and Luxury

Created30.07.2024, 10.43

Updated13.02.2026, 10.49

Retirement in North Cyprus is becoming a popular goal around the world. This is thanks to the stunning natural beauty, high living quality, and affordable prices. If you are considering making North Cyprus your retirement hub, we created a comprehensive guide for you. Here is everything you need to know about the country, covering daily life, top locations, and housing options. Year-Long Sunshine

Why Choose North Cyprus for Your Retirement?

North Cyprus is an amazing place to retire, offering various advantages. Here are 5 reasons why it can be your ideal retirement home:

Year-Long Sunshine

North Cyprus enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with an average annual temperature of 19.0°C. The summers last from April to October. The winters are short, with some potential rain. North Cyprus offers an endless holiday ambiance with almost 300 days of sunshine a year.

Affordable Living Costs

The official currency in North Cyprus is the Turkish Lira (TRY). This makes it a more affordable retirement destination than the Eurozone, UK, and US. To be more specific, monthly expenses in North Cyprus are 30-35% lower in Girne than in London. Also, the house prices are up to 60-65% cheaper than the UK.

You can do low-cost shopping in local bazaars, markets, and stores. Fresh fruits, vegetables, organic cheese, yogurt, olives, and fish are easily accessible.

House prices in North Cyprus are lower than the worldwide average too. Moreover, there are property financing options for foreigners, allowing them to buy luxurious properties at lower prices.

Suitable for Every Lifestyle

North Cyprus meets all lifestyle expectations, offering a colorful retirement season. It has both a vibrant nightlife and a tranquil ambiance. Some of the things to do in North Cyprus include hiking, paragliding, diving, and golfing.

You can spend your summers doing water sports, hiking, and enjoying the beach. You can explore festivals and cultural activities during the winter months. You can also visit historical places like Girne (Kyrenia) Castle and Salamis Ruins.

Accessible Healthcare

The healthcare services in North Cyprus are accessible to all citizens and foreigners. The government funds public healthcare, making it free for individuals with public health insurance. Both public and private hospitals offer exclusive services with a well-trained team.

You can get private healthcare if you prefer a more comprehensive health service. Private healthcare costs in North Cyprus are much more affordable than in Europe, making it a popular health tourism destination.

School System

If you have children of school age, they can get a comprehensive education in North Cyprus. Private and international schools are available for expat students. There are 5 international universities that follow the American or British curriculum.

Easy Transportation

If you are a UK, US, Turkey, or Schengen citizen, you don't need to apply for a visa in advance to enter North Cyprus. A tourist visa (typically valid for up to 90 days) is granted upon arrival. You can reach North Cyprus via a plane or ferry from Turkey, or choose direct flights to South Cyprus and cross the border with a valid passport.

Best Places to Retire in North Cyprus

North Cyprus is home to marvelous cities that offer unique benefits for retirees. Here are the top 4 places to live in North Cyprus as a foreign retiree:

İskele

İskele is considered to be the best place to retire in North Cyprus. It boasts a tranquil and peaceful environment. The city has a marvelous nature and a turquoise Mediterranean Sea. It features large housing options, including luxurious apartments and villas.

Lefkoşa

Lefkoşa, the capital city of North Cyprus, boasts a vibrant atmosphere. It offers a well-developed transportation system and numerous cultural activities. Lefkoşa features a rich real estate selection while apartments are the most popular type.

Girne

Girne, the tourism center of North Cyprus, is a beautiful port city that blends a traditional atmosphere with modern amenities. Girne is home to fine-sanded beaches and luxurious hotels. It has diverse real estate options, including fully detached villas and stylish apartments.

Gazimağusa

Gazimağusa is home to important historical landmarks. It offers a colorful holiday ambiance, famous beaches, and numerous social amenities. The city includes seaside properties with luxurious amenities, perfect for retirees who seek a laidback lifestyle.

Ready to Start Your Retirement Season?

North Cyprus is home to marvelous cities that welcome foreigners in a heartbeat. It offers a peaceful lifestyle, vibrant streets, a cosmopolitan environment, and modern amenities. If you are ready to start your retirement season in North Cyprus, browse our listings.

Our team is ready to assist you in finding and buying your dream property for sale in North Cyprus. Call us now and claim your dream retirement!

FAQ

Here is everything else you need to know before retiring in North Cyprus:

How can I obtain a permanent residence permit in North Cyprus after retirement?There are several ways to obtain a residence permit in North Cyprus. These include studying, working, and making real estate investments. For retirees, purchasing a residential property is generally considered the best option.
Upon entering North Cyprus, visitors are granted a 90-day tourist visa. During this period, you can search the real estate market. Any residential property, regardless of price, qualifies you for a residence permit. This permit can be renewed annually, allowing you to reside on the island permanently.

Is there a retirement visa in North Cyprus?No there is no visa program for retirees. However, foreign retirees above the age of 60 can get a 3-year residence visa. For this, they must own a property in North Cyprus and a guaranteed income.