How to Write a TRNC-Focused CV: A Complete Guide for Northern Cyprus Job Seekers

If you are applying for work in Northern Cyprus, submitting a standard UK or EU CV can significantly reduce your chances of success. Employers in the TRNC (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) have very specific expectations, particularly around residency, work permits, and practical experience.

This guide explains exactly what should be included in a TRNC-focused CV, how it differs from international formats, and how to structure it to meet local hiring requirements.

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Why a TRNC-Focused CV Matters

Northern Cyprus has a small, relationship-driven job market. Employers often hire quickly and need immediate clarity on:

• Whether you are legally able to work

• Your residency status

• Your language ability

• Your practical, hands-on experience

A CV that does not clearly address these points is often rejected without further discussion.

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Personal Information to Include

Unlike many European CV standards, TRNC employers expect more personal detail.

Your CV should include:

• Full name

• Nationality

• Current location (e.g. Girne, Lefkoşa, Famagusta)

• Phone number (local number preferred)

• Email address

• Date of birth

• Marital status (optional)

• Driving licence status

• Languages spoken

Avoid including your full home address or passport number.

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Professional Profile (Summary Section)

This should be a short paragraph (3–4 lines) explaining:

• Your professional background

• Your core strengths

• Your value to a Northern Cyprus employer

Keep this practical and direct. Overly corporate language is discouraged.

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Work Status – A Critical Section

This is one of the most important sections in a TRNC CV and is often missing.

Clearly state:

• Residency status (temporary, permanent, property owner)

• Work permit status (required, in progress, not required)

• Eligibility for employer-sponsored work permit

This immediately removes uncertainty for employers.

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Key Skills Employers Value in the TRNC

Focus on practical abilities, not theory.

Commonly valued skills include:

• Customer service and client relations

• Sales, property, hospitality, tourism, or retail experience

• Staff supervision

• Cash handling and POS systems

• Office software and website management

• Languages (especially English and Turkish)

Local employers prefer demonstrated competence over formal titles.

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Employment History: What to Emphasise

List your roles in reverse chronological order.

For each position include:

• Job title

• Company name and location

• Dates of employment

• 2–4 bullet points covering responsibilities and results

Highlight experience that shows independence, reliability, and adaptability—qualities highly valued in Northern Cyprus.

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Education and Qualifications

Include:

• Degrees and diplomas

• Trade or vocational qualifications

• Professional training courses

• Any sector-specific certifications

Formal education is important, but practical experience often carries more weight.

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Language Skills: Be Honest

Language ability is critical in the TRNC.

Clearly state your level:

• English – Native / Fluent

• Turkish – Basic / Conversational / Fluent

• Any additional languages

Do not exaggerate. Language ability is usually tested informally during interviews.

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Local Knowledge and Experience

This optional section can strongly differentiate you.

Examples include:

• Experience working with local suppliers

• Familiarity with residency or permit procedures

• Understanding of TRNC business culture

This reassures employers that you are not new to the local environment.

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References

Either state:

• “References available on request”

Or include one or two referees. A TRNC-based reference is a strong advantage.

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Recommended CV Format for Northern Cyprus

• Length: 2–3 pages is acceptable

• File format: PDF

• Font: Simple and professional

• Style: Clear, factual, conservative

Photographs should only be included if specifically requested.

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Final Thoughts

A TRNC-focused CV is not about embellishment—it is about clarity, legality, and local relevance. Candidates who clearly communicate their work status, language skills, and practical experience stand a far greater chance of securing interviews and job offers in Northern Cyprus.