Guide to buying a car in North Cyprus
One of the issues that arise after immigrating to North Cyprus is whether or not it is necessary to buy a car. Due to the weak public transportation system in this country, buying a car in North Cyprus is very popular among expats. On the other hand, the reasonable price of cars in this area also makes this option more attractive. All kinds of modern cars can be found in North Cyprus and their prices are much lower than in Iran. For example, to buy a 2018 Toyota in North Cyprus, you only need to spend about 11 thousand pounds. These factors have made buying a car in this country a favorable option for immigrants.
In this article, we will review zero to one hundred buying a car in North Cyprus. First, we will examine the reasons and benefits of buying a car in this area, and then we will explain the different stages of buying a car. Also, important points about choosing the right car, legal processes related to car purchase and registration, and insurance and tax issues will be discussed.
Guide to buying a car in North Cyprus
By reading this guide, expats can more confidently enter the North Cyprus car market and choose a car that fits their needs and budget. Our goal is to provide practical and comprehensive information to make the car buying process easier and more enjoyable for you.
Guide to buying a car in North Cyprus
Advantages of buying a car from North Cyprus
One: reasonable price
Car prices in North Cyprus are significantly cheaper than in Iran. The main reasons for this price difference include the absence of economic sanctions and heavy taxes on car imports in Northern Cyprus. While in Iran due to economic restrictions and sanctions, the prices of foreign cars are very high and there are limited options for buyers, in North Cyprus you can easily buy all kinds of modern cars at prices close to world rates. For example, a 2018 Toyota in North Cyprus costs about 11,000 pounds.
Two: high variety of cars
The car market in North Cyprus offers a very high variety of different brands and models of cars. This variety includes European, Japanese, Korean, American and even Chinese cars. Some of the most popular brands in North Cyprus include Mercedes Benz, BMW, Audi, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Ford, Chevrolet and Chinese brands such as Chery and Geely. This variety allows buyers to make the best choice according to their taste and needs.
Three: easy conditions for buying a car
Buying a car in North Cyprus is very easy for expats. To buy a car, immigrants only need a passport and do not even need to have a residence permit. This ease in the purchase process allows immigrants to buy their desired car without worrying about complicated documents and permits.
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Four: Fast and easy document transfer process
One of the great advantages of buying a car in North Cyprus is the quick and easy process of transferring the car ownership document. This simple and low-cost process allows buyers to register the car ownership in their name without legal and administrative problems. It is recommended to use an experienced lawyer in this process to avoid any possible problems.
Five: light and smooth traffic
Traffic in Northern Cyprus is very light and smooth. This issue is considered a great advantage especially for those who have migrated to this country from the heavy traffic and crowding of the big cities of Iran. In North Cyprus, driving on the streets rarely encounters heavy traffic and drivers can drive comfortably and stress-free.
Six: Low maintenance costs
Car maintenance costs in North Cyprus are much lower than in Iran. These costs include the price of gasoline, repairs and spare parts. Due to the easier access to spare parts and the absence of economic sanctions, the prices of these services and products are much more reasonable in North Cyprus.
Seven: Simpler driving rules
Driving rules in North Cyprus are simpler and less complicated than in Iran. This issue makes drivers to drive on the streets with less stress and more comfort. Also, regulations and requirements related to driver’s license are simpler and more accessible in this country.
Buying a car in North Cyprus can be a very attractive and logical option for expats due to its many advantages. Reasonable price, high variety of models, easy purchase terms, fast document transfer process, light traffic, low maintenance costs and simpler driving rules are among the reasons that justify this choice. With these advantages in mind, expats can more confidently enter the North Cyprus car market and choose a car that fits their needs and budget.
Disadvantages of buying a car from North Cyprus
A: the steering wheel of the car on the right side
One of the most important disadvantages of buying a car in North Cyprus is that the steering wheel of the cars is on the right side. This is because Northern Cyprus follows the British driving system, which may be challenging for many expats, especially those who are used to driving on the left. Adapting to this change requires time and practice and may cause discomfort and problems in driving at first.
the steering wheel of the car on the right side
Two: the necessity of third party insurance
In Northern Cyprus, third party insurance is mandatory for all vehicles. Although this requirement is intended to increase safety and cover potential damages, it can impose an additional cost on car owners. These costs can be different depending on the type of car, driver’s age and driving history and It should be considered in the budget of car purchase.
Three: Mandatory technical examination
All cars in North Cyprus must undergo periodic technical inspection. This technical examination includes checking the technical condition of the car, its safety and the amount of pollution. Although this is done to increase road safety and reduce air pollution, it can be expensive and time-consuming for some car owners, especially older cars.
Four: Payment of value added tax
When buying a car in Northern Cyprus, you must pay value added tax (VAT). This tax can be a significant amount and should be factored into the cost of buying a car. In addition, there is an annual vehicle tax that must be paid by the vehicle owner.
Five: Restrictions on driving between the northern and southern regions
One of the important restrictions for car buyers in Northern Cyprus is the inability to drive cars registered in the North to the Southern areas of Cyprus. This is due to the political differences between North and South Cyprus and can be problematic for those who plan to travel or stay in both parts of the island.
Six: limited second-hand market
The used car market in Northern Cyprus is smaller and less diverse than in Iran. This restriction can limit buyers’ options and may make it more difficult to find the right used car at a good price. Also, you are likely to face problems in the second-hand market such as less availability of spare parts and after-sales service.
Seven: The high price of gasoline
One of the disadvantages of driving in North Cyprus is the high price of gasoline. This cost can create a significant financial burden for car owners, especially those who travel long distances. Therefore, the cost of fuel should be considered as one of the influential factors in deciding to buy a car.
Buying a car in North Cyprus, despite its many advantages, also has disadvantages that should be carefully considered. Right-hand drive cars, mandatory third-party insurance, need for periodic technical examination, payment of value-added tax, restrictions on driving between northern and southern regions, limited second-hand market and high price of gasoline are among the most important disadvantages of buying a car in this country. Knowing these disadvantages helps buyers to make a more realistic and informed decision and consider all aspects before buying a car.
Procedures for buying a car from North Cyprus
Buying a car in North Cyprus has specific steps that are explained in detail below:
1. car selection
The first step in buying a car is choosing the right car. For this, you can visit car showrooms or online sales websites. At this point, you need to determine your needs and budget and check out the cars that fit your criteria. Make sure to check the desired cars in terms of technical aspects, model, year of production and other features.
2. Car test drive
After choosing a car, it is very important to test drive it. By driving the car, you can ensure its technical health. Pay attention to the operation of the engine, brake system, gearbox, suspension system and other car components. Also, ask the seller to show all the documents related to the car’s past services and repairs.
3. Negotiating the price
In Northern Cyprus, car prices are somewhat negotiable. After choosing the car and ensuring its health, you can negotiate the price with the seller. You can usually get a discount with a little haggling. Remember that market conditions and demand also affect your negotiating power.
4. signing agreement
After agreeing on the price, it is time to close the contract. At this stage, it is suggested to seek the help of an experienced lawyer so that the contract is drawn up correctly and all legal aspects of the transaction are considered. The contract should include details of the vehicle, the agreed price, payment terms and any warranties or obligations of the seller.
the steering wheel of the car on the right side
5. Document transfer
After signing the contract and paying the purchase price, you must go to the registry office so that the car ownership document is transferred to your name. For this, you will need documents such as passport, purchase contract and car documents. The document transfer process is usually quick and uncomplicated.
Important points in buying a car in North Cyprus
Check the car documents: Before buying, carefully check all the documents related to the car, including the ownership document, service and repair records and technical inspection.
Using a lawyer: In the process of signing the contract and transferring the document, it is better to get the help of an experienced lawyer to ensure the correctness and legality of the transaction.
Test drive: Before buying, be sure to test drive the car to make sure it works properly and is healthy.
Gasoline prices: Due to the high price of gasoline in Northern Cyprus, you should factor fuel costs into your financial planning.
Driving in South Cyprus: Due to political restrictions, vehicles registered in North Cyprus cannot enter the southern areas of the island. Consider this point in travel and car use plans.
final word
Buying a car in North Cyprus can be a positive and satisfying experience, taking into account important points such as right-hand drive, the requirement of an insurance policy, the need for a technical examination and the payment of value-added tax. By following these tips and consulting with local experts, you can choose a suitable car and ensure your purchase.
