Not every buyer can fly to Cyprus to sign the contract in person and go through every stage of the process. The good news: you can buy property in North Cyprus remotely. The key tool for this is a power of attorney.
In this article, we explain how buying property in North Cyprus by power of attorney works, which documents you will need and how to protect yourself in a remote transaction.
Can you buy property in North Cyprus without travelling to the island
Yes. The transaction can be completed by power of attorney: a lawyer acts on your behalf and goes through the stages of the process for you. Many buyers from the UK and Europe complete their purchase without a second trip to North Cyprus.
Why you need a power of attorney
Buying property in North Cyprus involves two main stages, and at both of them the lawyer needs your power of attorney:
- Signing the sales contract on your behalf.
- Transferring the title deed into your name.
Where to arrange a power of attorney
| Option | Features |
| In North Cyprus, at a lawyer’s office | The simplest option. Arranging a power of attorney for a property purchase here is usually free of charge |
| In your home country | The power of attorney must be certified by a notary and apostilled. This option is more complicated and more expensive |
If you have already been to Cyprus, for example for property viewings, it is more convenient to arrange the power of attorney with a lawyer right away, and you can use it in the future too.
How a remote purchase works: step by step
- Choosing a property. Shortlist options together with the agency. You can watch property videos on the VELES Property YouTube channel and get further details from a manager.
- Choosing a lawyer. The lawyer will represent your interests in the transaction. Before the contract is signed, they should check the property documents, above all the title deed.
- Arranging the power of attorney. If you are not in Cyprus, the power of attorney is certified by a notary in your country, apostilled and then sent to the lawyer.
- Preparing documents. You will need a valid passport and a criminal record certificate from your country of citizenship, which also needs to be apostilled.
- Signing and registering the contract. The lawyer signs the sales contract on your behalf and registers it with the Land Registry.
- Applying for purchase permission. A foreigner needs permission from the TRNC Council of Ministers to buy property.
- Paying taxes. Land Registry fees for foreigners are currently 4% for the first property, 5.5% for the second and 6% for the third. These rates apply until 5 January 2027 inclusive.
- Transferring the title deed. At the final stage, the lawyer uses the power of attorney to transfer the title deed into your name.
How to make a remote purchase safe
A remote transaction requires particular attention to documents. Here is what matters:
- Check the title deed before buying. First check the property documents, and only then decide whether to buy.
- Work with an independent lawyer who is not connected to the seller.
- Limit the power of attorney. Specify the exact property and the exact actions your representative may carry out.
- Start the apostille process early. It may take time, so it is better to start before you choose a property.
- Keep copies of all documents and proof of every payment.
Frequently asked questions
Can you buy property in North Cyprus without travelling to the island?
Yes. A lawyer can complete the transaction by power of attorney: sign the sales contract and transfer the title deed into your name.
Where can I arrange a power of attorney if I am abroad?
With a notary in your country. The power of attorney must be apostilled.
Which documents will I need?
A valid passport, an apostilled criminal record certificate from your country of citizenship and a power of attorney for the lawyer.
How much tax does a foreigner pay when buying?
4% for the first property, 5.5% for the second and 6% for the third. These rates apply until 5 January 2027 inclusive.
We will help you buy property remotely
VELES Property specialists will help you choose a property, arrange an apostilled power of attorney and support the transaction until you receive the title deed. We can also help you obtain a residence permit and open a bank account in North Cyprus.
