Citizenship of North Cyprus Turks: Eligibility, Rights, and Process

The complex political situation on the island of Cyprus has led to a unique citizenship status for North Cyprus Turks, which is the Turkish Cypriot population residing in the northern part of the country. This article provides an in-depth look at the eligibility for citizenship, the rights and benefits afforded to North Cyprus Turks, and the process involved.

Historical Context

The island of Cyprus has undergone significant changes since 1974, when it was divided into two distinct regions. The northern part declared itself as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) in 1983, which remains recognized only by Turkey. This division has greatly influenced the citizenship status of North Cyprus Turks.

Citizenship of the Republic of Cyprus

Before the division, Turkish Cypriots were citizens of the Republic of Cyprus (RoC). Despite the creation of the TRNC, the RoC continues to recognize these individuals as its citizens, granting them certain rights and benefits.

Eligibility for Citizenship

Practically speaking, Turkish Cypriots can apply for RoC citizenship. As an EU member state, RoC citizens have the right to full EU citizenship upon acquiring RoC citizenship. This dual citizenship provides significant advantages, such as visa-free travel and access to EU-resident benefits.

Current Situation

Residing North Cyprus Turks enjoy a range of rights and benefits, including:

Access to services and rights in the RoC-controlled areas: They can travel freely into the areas controlled by the RoC, benefiting from RoC-provided services such as free medical care and government-sponsored pensions. Right to work and study in EU member states: About 12,000 Turkish Cypriots work in areas controlled by the RoC and can enjoy RoC-provided benefits, such as employment and education, in the EU member states. Trade benefits: Turkish Cypriot businesses can freely trade through the RoC with other EU countries and any other country the RoC has trade agreements with. Voting rights in EU elections: Turkish Cypriots have the constitutional right to participate in elections within the EU, either as candidates or voters. For instance, in the last European Parliament election, a Turkish Cypriot was elected as an MEP representing RoC. Suffrage in RoC elections: About 7,000 Turkish Cypriots have crossed the dividing line to cast their votes in RoC elections, highlighting their active participation in RoC politics.

Legal Framework

The legal framework allows for the recognition of Turkish Cypriots as citizens of the RoC. However, bureaucratic challenges and varying interpretations of the law can impact the ease of the citizenship process.

Conclusion

In summary, North Cyprus Turks are eligible for citizenship in the Republic of Cyprus. While the process can be influenced by political and administrative factors, they enjoy significant rights and benefits within the RoC-controlled areas, including trade benefits, educational opportunities, and involvement in electoral processes.