Drafting contracts in two languages
Why Draft a Bilingual Contract in Northern Cyprus?
A sale agreement is the foundation of transaction security. However, in Northern Cyprus, foreign investors face a dilemma: the law requires the use of the official language, which the buyer often does not understand. The solution is to draft the contract in two languages (e.g., Turkish + Russian or Turkish + English). This approach ensures compliance with the law and full transparency of terms for the client.
Mandatory Use of Turkish
According to TRNC legislation, administrative processes and transaction registration in government bodies (Land Registry, Tax Office) are conducted exclusively in the official language.
Important: A contract drafted only in a foreign language (Russian or English) will not be accepted for registration by District Land Committees. The Turkish version is mandatory.
We prepare bilingual contracts where the text is divided into two columns. This allows the client to personally read and understand each clause they sign, without relying on oral translation.
Structure and Key Clauses
To minimize risks and protect assets, the contract must include detailed regulation of all stages of the transaction. Instead of the general term “goods,” in real estate transactions we specify the following parameters:
- Party Information. Full identification of the seller and buyer (passport data, addresses).
- Property Description (Subject of Transaction). Precise characteristics: plot registration number, area, layout, specification of finishing materials.
- Price and Payment Terms. Recording of cost, currency, payment schedule, and penalties for delays.
- Transfer Terms and Possession. Clear date for handing over keys and conditions under which possession occurs.
- Rights and Obligations. Rules of conduct of the parties until the title is received.
- Quality Guarantees. Developer’s liability for hidden defects and structural integrity of the building.
- Force Majeure. Circumstances beyond control that release parties from liability.
- Dispute Resolution. Procedure for pre-trial settlement and jurisdiction of TRNC courts.
- Additional Conditions. Individual arrangements (furnishings, appliances, air conditioners).
Legal Force of Versions
When drafting bilingual contracts, it is critical to determine which version has priority in case of discrepancies.
- Usually, the prevailing version is Turkish, as it will be reviewed by the court in case of dispute.
- Our task as lawyers is to ensure maximum accuracy of legal translation so that the meaning of the Russian/English version fully corresponds to the Turkish original.
The company DeJure Consulting guarantees professional linguistic and legal adaptation of contracts, protecting your interests within the legal framework of Northern Cyprus.
Book a call
Leave a request and receive expert assistance from our specialist.
SERVICES
Drafting Sales Contracts in Northern Cyprus
Consultation with a licensed lawyer in North Cyprus
Drafting contracts in one language
Drafting contracts in two languages
Property Check (Search) in Northern Cyprus: Encumbrances
Legalization of a power of attorney issued abroad
Drafting a will in two languages, registration in the local court
Inheritance Processing in Northern Cyprus
Establishment of a local company in Northern Cyprus
Company Registration (Free Port / Offshore)
Representation in Court in Northern Cyprus: Legal Services
Conducting transactions for the purchase/acquisition of residential real estate or a plot of land
Registration of the sales contract at Tax Office and Land District Office
De-registration of the sales contract at the tax office and land district office
Title transfer in Northern Cyprus
Application to the council of ministers for purchase permit
Signing of documents as legal representative (power of attorney)
Assistance with water connection
Assistance with electricity connection