IPC Applications Now Subject to Strict Court Time Limits: A Major Legal Breakthrough
A very important and positive development has recently taken place regarding applications before the Immovable Property Commission (IPC) in Northern Cyprus.
With an amendment to the Civil Procedure Rules published in the Official Gazette of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus on 1 December 2025, the Supreme Court has introduced clear and binding time limits for how long courts can adjourn IPC-related proceedings.
What Has Changed?
Under the new 2025 Civil Procedure (Amendment No. 2) Rules, the court is now required to decide on petitions submitted under the relevant IPC procedures after a maximum of four adjournments.
Most importantly:
- Each adjournment cannot exceed 45 days
- The total number of adjournments is strictly limited to four
This means that unnecessary or prolonged delays are no longer permitted.
What Does This Mean in Practice?
In simple terms, once an IPC-related application or petition is filed:
- The court must move the case forward without indefinite postponements
- A decision must be reached within a clearly defined timeframe
When these limits are calculated together, applicants can now reasonably expect:
A response within approximately 6–7 months from the date of filing
This represents a significant improvement compared to previous practice, where cases could remain pending for much longer periods.
Why Is This Important for IPC Applicants?
This amendment is a major step forward because it:
- Increases legal certainty for applicants
- Reduces unnecessary delays and procedural stagnation
- Strengthens the effectiveness and credibility of the IPC system
- Aligns domestic procedures more closely with international standards of timely justice
For property owners and claimants, especially those applying from abroad, this change brings much-needed clarity and predictability.
Our View at Sertbay Law
At Sertbay Law, we consider this amendment a genuine breakthrough for IPC applications.
Clear procedural timelines are a significant step towards greater legal certainty. However, while the legislative change itself is highly positive, its practical implementation by the courts will be equally crucial in determining whether the intended efficiency and predictability are fully achieved in practice.
We closely monitor legislative and procedural developments affecting IPC claims and ensure that applications are prepared and pursued efficiently within the new framework.
If you would like to understand how this change may affect your IPC application, or if you are considering filing a claim, our team will be pleased to assist you.
For legal assistance and further information regarding applications to the Immovable Property Commission, you may contact our office.
Email: [[email protected]]
Tel: +90 392 2288001
Fax: +90 392 228009
Cyta: 99166237 TC: +905488802020
Web: www.sertbaylaw.com
