A Title Deed, known locally as a “Koçan,” is the official ownership document for Real Estate in North Cyprus. It is issued by the Tapu ve Kadastro Dairesi, the state authority responsible for the registration and administration of land and Real Estate.

The Title Deed confirms who is legally recognised as the owner and forms the legal basis for the transfer of ownership.

Under the current legal framework in North Cyprus, three main Title Deed categories are recognised:

1. Türk Koçanı (Pre-1974 Turkish Title Deed)
   This category refers to properties that were registered in the name of Turkish Cypriot or foreign owners prior to 1974. These properties were not subject to post-1974 administrative redistribution and therefore represent a distinct historical ownership structure. They are legally recognised under the current system of North Cyprus.
2. Eşdeğer Koçan (Exchange Title Deed)
   “Eşdeğer” means “equivalent” or “exchange.” After 1974, certain properties in the North were allocated to Turkish Cypriots who had left property in the South. This allocation formed the basis of the Exchange Title system. Exchange Titles are widely used in modern residential developments and are recognised under the current legal framework of North Cyprus.
3. Tahsis Koçan (Allocation Title Deed)
   The Allocation Title was issued by the state following 1974 to individuals under specific administrative policies. These titles were granted in accordance with the legal provisions in place at the time and remain valid under the laws of North Cyprus.

The Title Deed establishes legal ownership and provides the formal basis for transfer, resale, rental or inheritance of real estate. Clear documentation of ownership is an essential element of any property transaction and forms part of the overall legal framework governing real estate in North Cyprus.

Independent legal review forms part of the standard purchasing procedure.