Prime Minister Ünal Üstel announced revisions to the Foreigners and Immigration (Amendment) Law, which reduces penalties for those sentenced to immigration, addressing concerns that arose after the law was implemented.
The law, initially enacted on July 11, 2024, aimed to reduce penalties for individuals with various immigration statuses. However, new issues emerged in practice, prompting the government to introduce further adjustments to address grievances.
Highlights of the Revised Law:
* Support for Vulnerable Groups: The amendment specifically addresses the concerns of vulnerable groups, such as residents of SOS Children’s Village, individuals under state protection, and people with disabilities. Üstel explained that these individuals can now apply for penalty reductions in line with the guidelines set out in the Foreigners and Immigration (Amendment) Law No. 61/2024, during the amnesty period, ensuring the state does not lose revenue.
* Exemptions and Penalty Reductions:
* Children and Individuals Under State Protection: Minors under 18 residing in SOS Children’s Village or under state protection, as well as those over 18 who have left such protection but remain in the country and have been penalized, will be exempt from paying the remaining fines. They will only be required to pay 10% of the current 1-month gross minimum wage.
* People with Disabilities: Individuals with disabilities, as outlined in the Residence Permits and Visas Regulation, will also benefit from this exemption.
* Family Members Abroad: Individuals with family ties in North Cyprus (spouse, parent, sibling, child) who are currently abroad and have been banned from entering the the country due to previous unauthorized entry will be exempt from the remainder of their fine if they pay one minimum wage.
The revised regulation was officially published in the Official Gazette on August 27, 2024, and has now come into force.