More than 5,000 foreigners denied entry into north Cyprus in 2024 says minister of Interior: Iranians, Pakistanis and Turkish citizens most affected

In 2024, a total of 5,512 individuals who traveled to north Cyprus on various visas were denied entry at the Ercan Airport said the Minister of Interior Dursun Oğuz.

Dursun made the revelation last week when responding to claims that "The state was allowing everyone into the country" and adding that such claim do not reflect the truth. 

Speaking as a guest on "Sabah Postası" with Gökhan Altıner on Kıbrıs Postası TV, Oğuz addressed various questions about immigration policies and public concerns.

Oğuz provided a breakdown of the individuals denied entry, including 760 from Iran, 580 from Pakistan, 504 from Turkey, 441 from Iraq, 334 from Somalia, 336 from Turkmenistan, 273 from Afghanistan, 179 from Uzbekistan, 143 from Sudan, 120 from China, 120 from Nigeria, 114 from Georgia, and 102 from Kyrgyzstan. He emphasized that, in addition to these figures, people from various other countries were also turned away.

Oğuz clarified that the individuals denied entry were those who had legally purchased tickets and arrived at Ercan Airport. He stressed that not all foreigners are criminals, saying, "We cannot deport everyone who comes here; not all of them commit crimes."

He highlighted that many foreigners contribute positively to the economy, stating, "Some people come here, fall in love with Northern Cyprus, buy property, and start living here."

Addressing a recent incident where a vehicle blocked traffic on the Lefkosia-Famagusta main road, with the driver and passenger found unconscious, Oğuz said he had no information on the cause but assured that the police were investigating. He reiterated the government's commitment to minimizing such incidents through strict deterrent penalties.

"Maintaining public order is crucial. When there is internal stability, both residents and tourists can feel at ease," Oğuz added.

Responding to claims that car dealerships in Northern Cyprus are involved in money laundering, Oğuz challenged those making the allegations to present evidence:

"If anyone has information or documents, please make them public. They should report them to us or the police. If there is indeed money laundering happening, the necessary legal actions will be taken."