Bill to reduce the military service fee to be reviewed urgently

The General Assembly of Northern Cyprus has approved the urgent discussion of a bill that includes significant changes related to paid military service in the relevant committee.

The proposed provision includes reducing the military service fee from 10 minimum wages to 5, and exempting those who pay the fee without performing any military service from further obligations.

The Military Service (Amendment) Bill, introduced by members of the Republican Turkish Party (CTP) and signed by several independent MPs, includes a provision that takes family budgets into account under current economic conditions.

Accordingly, the paid military service fee will be reduced to 5 gross minimum wages, and individuals will be able to pay the fee in foreign currency if they wish.

In addition, those who paid higher amounts for paid military service in previous periods will be able to receive refunds for their excess payments.

The bill also provides for exemption from military service for TRNC citizens who have resided in Turkey for a long time and have completed military service there.

It will also introduce an amnesty provision for those who have evaded conscription or have outstanding obligations. If these individuals apply within six months of the law’s enactment, they will be able to rectify their status.