Why So Many Foreign Prisoners Are in Northern Cyprus Foreign prisoners in Northern Cyprus make up a significant portion of the total prison population. At times, foreign nationals have accounted for more than half of all inmates. This distinctive characteristic marks the Northern Cyprus prison system. To understand the high number of foreign prisoners, we must examine immigration patterns, legal enforcement, and the demographics of the country’s population. This article will

Crime and Punishment in Northern Cyprus – Part 2 What Crimes Are Most Common in Northern Cyprus? Northern Cyprus is widely considered one of the safest places to live in the Mediterranean, with relatively low levels of serious violent crime. However, like every country, criminal offences do occur, and understanding the most common types of crime provides valuable insight into how the legal system operates. This guide explains the most common crimes in Northern Cyprus, who com

Crime and Punishment in Northern Cyprus – Part 1 The Prison System in Northern Cyprus: Complete Guide Northern Cyprus is widely regarded as one of the safest places in the Mediterranean, with relatively low levels of serious violent crime. However, like every country, it operates a structured criminal justice system, and at the centre of that system is its prison infrastructure. This guide explains everything you need to know about the prison system in Northern Cyprus, includ

Northern Cyprus continues to present a complex employment landscape. While headline unemployment figures appear relatively low, deeper analysis — particularly among young people and women — reveals structural imbalances that warrant attention. Below is a breakdown of the current labour market position and what it may signal for the coming years. ---------------------------------------- Labour Market Overview ·         Employment rate:  48.4% ·         Labour force participati

Flights to Northern Cyprus High airfares to Northern Cyprus continue to create frustration across the tourism sector, with industry leaders warning that current prices are damaging demand and limiting growth. The Cyprus Turkish Tourism and Travel Agencies Association (KITSAB)  has now formally called for the introduction of a price cap on flights to make travel more affordable and predictable. ---------------------------------------- Proposal for a Maximum Ticket Price Syste

North Cyprus has become a hotspot for property buyers and investors looking for beautiful landscapes, affordable prices, and a relaxed lifestyle. Whether you are searching for a holiday home, a permanent residence, or an investment opportunity, working with the right estate agent is crucial. This guide will help you navigate the market by explaining what to look for, and offering practical tips to make your property journey smooth and successful. -----------------------------

$60 Million Solar Power Plant Planned for Northern Cyprus Northern Cyprus is set to take a major step toward energy independence with plans for a large-scale solar power plant worth approximately $60 million . The project, backed by a Turkey-based company, will involve the construction of a 50-megawatt solar power facility designed to significantly strengthen the country’s renewable energy capacity. The investment is widely viewed as a strategic response to long-standing ele

South Cyprus Preparing AI Camera Enforcement for Phone and Seatbelt Offences Authorities in South Cyprus are preparing legislative changes that would allow mobile traffic cameras to automatically record drivers using mobile phones or failing to wear seatbelts while driving. The proposal was presented during a meeting of the Road Safety Council and forms part of a broader effort to reduce preventable road deaths linked to distracted or careless driving. -----------------------

WhatsOnInTRNC is pleased to announce the launch of its official YouTube channel, now featuring dedicated Northern Cyprus property videos  showcasing homes, developments, and investment opportunities across the region. The new channel — available at:👉  https://www.youtube.com/@WOITRNC/videos — expands the Whatsonintrnc.com platform by offering visual walkthroughs, area comparisons, investment insights, and regular property updates. With over 240,000 monthly Google impression

Northern Cyprus is set to welcome its largest-ever extreme sports and motorsport complex  with the launch of Heyecan Park , a landmark project announced by the Değirmenlik–Akıncılar Municipality . Planned as a world-class facility, Heyecan Park will be built entirely with municipal funding and will span an impressive 303,000 square metres of land along the road connecting the villages of Akıncılar and Kırklar. Once completed, it will become the most comprehensive technical a

Ikigai Moonlight Garden North Cyprus  is a boutique, nature-focused retreat offering a peaceful escape in the unspoilt countryside near Yeni Erenkoy , in the İskele District . Designed for travellers seeking tranquillity, simplicity, and connection with nature, it stands apart from conventional hotels and resorts in Northern Cyprus. Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of ikigai —finding purpose, balance, and joy—this retreat blends thoughtful design, natural surroundings, and

Hidden in the rugged countryside near Avtepe , Elisis Kastros , also known locally as Gastro Mağarası , is one of North Cyprus’s most intriguing and least-understood ancient sites. Carved directly into the limestone cliffs, this rock-cut complex combines archaeology, legend, and dramatic scenery, making it a compelling destination for explorers interested in the island’s deeper past. ---------------------------------------- Where is Elisis Kastros? Elisis Kastros is located c

Northern Cyprus property listings The way people discover property opportunities in Northern Cyprus is evolving — and WhatsoninTRNC is leading that shift. We are pleased to announce the launch of our brand-new PROPERTIES  page, a dedicated space designed to showcase homes, investments, and development opportunities across Northern Cyprus. This major expansion transforms WhatsoninTRNC from being solely an events and lifestyle information hub into a powerful discovery platform

Metehan Checkpoint Expansion Cross-border travel between Northern and Southern Cyprus is set to become significantly smoother following confirmation that expansion works at the Metehan Checkpoint  on the Turkish Cypriot side have now been completed. Speaking on the issue, Tufan Erhürman  confirmed that once the Greek Cypriot authorities complete their corresponding works, the checkpoint will operate with seven booths and increased staffing on each side . This upgrade is expec

📌 Introduction Northern Cyprus (KKTC) has taken decisive environmental action by introducing a comprehensive single-use plastics ban  aimed at reducing plastic pollution and protecting natural ecosystems. This landmark regulation affects both consumers and businesses, with new rules phased in from 2023 through January 1, 2026 . ---------------------------------------- 🗓 Timeline of the Ban July 11, 2023:  The first phase of the ban came into force, restricting the distribut

Northern Cyprus Inflation January 2026 Hits 39.4% Annual Rate The Statistical Service has released its latest Consumer Price Index figures, showing inflation increased by 1.97% in January  compared with the previous month. The same rise was recorded compared with December of the previous year, bringing the annual inflation rate to 39.40% . The data reflects continued cost pressures across multiple sectors, with communications and health-related expenses seeing particularly sh

Meat prices in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) have risen to levels described as “unacceptable” by trade bodies, prompting renewed calls for urgent support for local producers and consumers. In a joint statement, the Cyprus Turkish Chamber of Craftsmen  and the Butchers’ Trade and Crafts Chamber warned that meat has become unaffordable for much of the population, with serious consequences for domestic consumption and food security. ---------------------------

The net minimum wage in Northern Cyprus is set to increase significantly in February, providing welcome financial relief for thousands of workers. The announcement was made on January 26 in parliament by Prime Minister Ünal Üstel , who confirmed that the new minimum wage will be tax-free  and supported by additional government contributions. ---------------------------------------- New Net Minimum Wage in Northern Cyprus Confirmed From February, the net minimum wage will ris

Taxi Fares in Northern Cyprus Taxi fares in Northern Cyprus have increased significantly at the start of the new year, leaving residents and visitors surprised by how expensive even short journeys have become. Following a 40% rise in public transport fares , taxi tariffs have now followed the same upward trend — with some airport taxi journeys costing more than an international flight . ---------------------------------------- Airport Taxi Fares Now Exceed Air Ticket Prices T

TRNC mandatory salary bank payments The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC)  is set to introduce a significant change to employment practices with new legislation requiring salary payments to be made via bank accounts  for enterprises employing five or more staff . The bill was presented to parliament on 26 January 2026  by Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu , Minister of Labour and Social Security, and is scheduled to come into force on 31 March 2026 . ________________________________