Insider tips for a smooth relocation from the UK to North Cyprus

So your dream home by the sea is ready to move into, all your utilities are connected, and it’s time to relocate.

And whether you’re retiring to enjoy your time in a warmer climate, relocating your whole family for a fresh new start, or moving here for work, insider tips will really help you make a smooth transition from the UK to your exciting new life in North Cyprus.

Organising passport, visa and removalists

Because you are coming from the UK, which is an EU country, you can enter North Cyprus without a visa and remain here for 90 days, regardless of whether you are just visiting or intending to relocate. Just make sure you begin the process of applying for residency before your 90 days are up, and then it should take approximately three to four weeks from start to finish to become a legal resident of Northern Cyprus.

If you have decided to bring your household contents with you to North Cyprus then you will find most companies will offer either a complete ‘home to home’ service, or a partial ‘door to dock’ service. Obviously the first option is less stressful, but you will still have to deal with customs paperwork and liaising with the shipping company, regardless of which option you chose.

And just remember that customs duty is liable on all imported goods, although it is usually waived on used household effects for those retiring to North Cyprus, provided that you import your household contents within 6 months of arrival.

There are a many companies who deal specifically with shipping to North Cyprus, and if you would like some recommendations just contact our North Cove office and we will be more than happy to assist.

Bringing your Pet to North Cyprus

Naturally you don’t want to leave your beloved family pet behind when you leave the UK and the good news is that yes, you can bring your pet with you to North Cyprus.

Defra’s website, www.defra.gov.uk, provides information on the process of getting your pet ready before you leave the UK as well as companies who will relocate your pet.

If you do decide to bring your pet to North Cyprus then your costs will include: vet’s bills, airline freight charges, entry fee when your pet arrives, transportation fee to quarantine, and then a daily quarantine charge.

Your pet will also need an EU pet passport organised at least four months before you move to North Cyprus. And you will also need to apply for an Import Licence via the Kyrenia Animal Rescue website (www.kyreniaanimalrescue.org) and supply details of your pet, including name, breed, sex, age and colour, as well as your details.

You will need to ensure that your pet:

• is micro chipped for identification purposes
• is vaccinated against rabies (6-12 months before travel)
• has a blood test done one month after the rabies vaccination
• has a transportation box for their flight that will fit into the plane

Then once your pet arrives in North Cyprus it will need to remain in the government quarantine kennels at North Lefkoşa for approximately 3-4 weeks, where you will need to:

• provide food
• exercise and feed it
• clean out its kennel and pay any vet bills

And finally, you will be reunited with your pet as your start your new life together in North Cyprus.

Buying or bringing your own Car to North Cyprus

When you relocate to Northern Cyprus you’ll want to look around and enjoy the independence that is afforded by owning your own vehicle. But is it cheaper to bring your own car with you or buy one here?

If you are thinking of bringing your UK car with you, it must:

• be less than 5 years old
• must have valid road tax
• have an up to date MOT certificate

The cost of importing your car from the UK will depend on your type of vehicle, the value of the vehicle based on the price of the used car, and its engine capacity.

All vehicle relocation costs need to be paid within your first year and you will be liable to approx 40% tax on the value of your car, as well as one-off charges that will depend on your engine capacity. And don’t forget that when you move to North Cyprus you will be driving on the right-hand side of the road.

If you decide to buy a car in North Cyprus, there are plenty of options but be aware that cars here are expensive due to import taxes and trade restrictions. The Alım Satım Magazine (Buying & Selling) advertises hundreds of cars will give you a good idea of what you can expect to pay. It really pays to shop around because the dealerships in Kyrenia and Famagusta are more expensive than those in Lefkoşa.

So whether you decide to import your UK car with you, or buy a new or second-hand car here, it really makes sense to do your homework ahead of time so you can make a considered decision and potentially save yourself hundreds of pounds.

Our friendly local staff are here to help you

Whatever your reason for moving to North Cyprus, at North Cove Estate we are here to help ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible for you. And whether you have questions about moving yourself, your pets, your furniture or your car, we are far more than just a real estate agency.

Our friendly local staff at North Cove Estates are here to assist you in any way we can, ready to assist with local tips and insider knowledge about moving to and living in North Cyprus, so you can really enjoy your beautiful new home in the sun.

Contact us now if you have any questions about the relocation process.