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  • New Portugal Golden Visa Rules To Take Effect Within Days – Latest Update

    Following the reconfirmed vote by the Parliament, and the delivery of the document to the President’s office, we can say today that the “Mais Habitação” law was already ratified by the President of the Republic. The next step is the publishment of the new law which can take up to 8 days. According to the diploma, it should enter into force one day after the publication.

    From our side, we will now work to conclude all pending cases, by entering the respective submissions.

    We will continue to monitor the situation as closely as possible, keeping investors and partners informed of any developments while remaining available for any clarifications needed.

  • Mercan Group joined the Portuguese Diaspora Council in Canada!

    Mercan Group joined the Portuguese Head of State for a prestigious event in Toronto, celebrating 70 years of Portuguese emigration to Canada.

    The Portuguese Diaspora Council hosted a corporate gala that marked the beginning of Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa’s visit to the emigrant communities of this dynamic nation. The gathering brought together an eclectic committee of Portuguese and Canadian identities, representatives, and partners, in celebration of a shared heritage and a promising future.

    Among the distinguished guests, Mercan Group joined the Portuguese Committee, promoting solid relations between Portugal and Canada. Mr. Jerome Morgan, President and CEO of Mercan Group, and Jordi Vilanova – President of Mercan Properties – had the honor of accompanying the Portuguese Head of State, who highlighted Canada’s profound influence as a powerful political and economic partner, calling for greater participation to increase strength both in Portugal and Canada.

    President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa eloquently emphasized the importance of the immigrant community’s contribution, acknowledging the invaluable presence of immigrants who invest and call Portugal their new home: “Portugal is united in thanking this community for years and decades of dedication,” without neglecting political participation: “You must participate, your participation gives more strength in Portugal and here,” he stressed.

    This prestigious event not only celebrated the enduring bond between the two nations but also represented a significant milestone for Portugal’s immigration and investment scene. With a remarkable portfolio of 30 projects across Portugal, Mercan Group offers an unparalleled diversity of hotel units, from luxury segments to the highest quality standards. Our commitment to Portugal’s growth continues to shine brightly.

    This celebration, served as a testament to the long-lasting links between Portugal and Canada, with Mercan Group at the forefront of creating a brighter future.

  • Latest Update on Portugal Golden Visa on September 22, 2023

    As per initially scheduled following the Conferência de Líderes, we would like to inform you, that the Parliament has just reconfirmed the “Mais Habitação” law with the votes in favor of 119 deputies from PS (Government party) and against 87 deputies, which means all opposition – both left and right-wing. Following this approval, the law is expected to be sent to the President within the next 5 to 7 business days. Upon receiving the law, the President has an 8-day deadline to ask for it to be published. However, given that the law is quite controversial, this deadline may not be complied with.

    Our advice to all our clients is to move forward as soon as possible with their investments. The current average time to conclude the investment, with IAS, is currently under a week and will be reduced to 2/3 business days – which provides enough time to invest and be part of the Portuguese investment program under the current regime.

    We will continue to monitor the situation as closely as possible, keeping investors and partners informed of any developments while remaining available for any clarifications needed.

  • Mercan Group Renaissance Hotel Embraces the Coastal City of Porto

    Renaissance Hotels, a prominent member of Marriott Bonvoy’s extensive portfolio of 31 exceptional hotel brands, has made its debut in Portugal with the grand opening of the Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel.

    Nestled in the enchanting Lapa neighborhood, renowned for its rich history and lively ambiance in Porto, this new hotel presents an enticing urban retreat for spontaneous explorers. It’s a haven of sleek sophistication, just moments away from iconic landmarks like the Lapa Church, Casa da Música, and the Clérigos Tower.

    “Porto is an enchanting destination, known for its flourishing wine and culinary scene, captivating attractions, and a treasure trove of history and culture around every corner. This sets the stage for an exciting debut for Renaissance Hotels,” commented Jennifer Connell, Global Brand Leader of Renaissance Hotels and Vice President of Distinctive Premium Brands at Marriott International. “With the brand’s signature theatrical design, engaging Evening programming, and expert Navigators, Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel is poised to captivate both guests and locals with unexpected discoveries that will surprise and delight.”

    Perched atop the hills of Lapa, the hotel boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. Drawing inspiration from this beloved city, the Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel was brought to life as an ‘Art House in The Park’ through the collaborative efforts of the local architectural firm, Visioarq Arquitectos, and interior designers from Broadway Malyan. Anchored by the brand’s theatrical design concept, the hotel’s decor harmoniously blends pastel pinks and champagne golds, with a surprising touch of petrol blue paying homage to the iconic Douro River that winds its way through Porto and Gaia. The interiors showcase vintage Portuguese tiles, cherished adornments used in local buildings and pavements for centuries.

    Adorning the walls are original art pieces from Portuguese international artists, including a tile mosaic installation by Pedrita Studio, a painting by Isabel Mello, and a unique creation composed of corrugated iron and neon lights by Berlin-based artist Clemens Behr.

    The champagne color palette extends to the hotel’s 163 stylish guest rooms and suites, featuring neutral walnut wood furnishings, chic design elements, and floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe the space in natural light. All guest rooms are equipped with modern 55″ LCD flat-screen TVs, high-quality sound systems, work desks, and USB outlets. The four suites, most of which are located on higher floors, offer spacious living areas and private balconies, providing guests with a serene retreat and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

    The hotel’s culinary offerings include one restaurant and two bars, all dedicated to delivering a gastronomic experience rooted in Portuguese cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. On the ground floor, guests can savor all-day dining at the signature Restaurant and Bar, where the brand’s Ritual, featuring local flavors, marks the transition from day to night. Four nights a week, the bar concocts a locally infused ‘punch bowl’ featuring gins from Porto, fresh seasonal fruits, and handpicked herbs. After the Ritual, the space transforms into an elevated venue where guests and locals can mingle over cocktails and enjoy live music. For panoramic views and a serene atmosphere, the Sky Bar on the fifth floor offers locally inspired cocktails paired with Portuguese-style light bites.

  • Mercan’s Casa da Companhia is (one of) The Best Hotels and Extended Stays to Visit in 2023!

    Esquire Magazine has curated a list of 21 exceptional global hotels, ranging from luxurious resorts to charming hideaways that you absolutely must consider for your next travel adventure. Among these prestigious recommendations, Casa da Companhia, Vignette Collection in Porto, Portugal, stands out as a top choice.

    Porto, with its picturesque and slightly hilly streets, vibrant bars like Aduela where you can immerse yourself in the local scene, and rich cultural experiences such as the Serralves Foundation, which houses an impressive collection of Calder and Miró artworks, is an irresistible destination. Not to mention the stunning beaches and inviting azure swimming pools that add to its allure.

    When it comes to savoring all that Porto has to offer, Casa da Companhia, Vignette Collection, a luxurious 40-room hotel under the IHG Hotels & Resorts umbrella, provides the ultimate sanctuary. Situated on the charming and pedestrian-friendly Rua das Flores, one of Porto’s most beautiful streets, this hotel has a storied history as it once served as the headquarters of a prominent port company.

    Continuing its legacy, Casa da Companhia boasts a restaurant and bar that hosts bi-weekly port tastings and offers a carefully curated menu that pays homage to the region’s culinary traditions. Aside from the well-appointed rooms, it’s highly recommended to secure one with a balcony for an enhanced experience. However, the true gem of this establishment is the perfectly-sized, heated pool that offers sweeping views of the city’s Sé Cathedral. It’s undoubtedly the ideal spot for a leisurely siesta or an evening glass of wine, perhaps both.

    Should you find your legs weary from exploring the enchanting streets of Porto, you can rejuvenate at the hotel’s well-equipped spa and indulge in the opulent indoor pool. Another advantage of Porto’s location is its proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Douro Valley, famous for its wine production, and Lisbon, just a three-hour train journey away.

    Exciting news for travelers: The hotel group has recently unveiled a new destination in Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, set within a beautifully converted convent. The possibilities for unforgettable experiences in Portugal are endless.

  • Change of Law – Portugal Golden Visa

    Following the State Council that took place yesterday, with the attendance of the President of the Republic and the Prime Ministry, we were informed that the Government has scheduled, at the Parliament, the return of the discussion for the “Mais Habitação” law. According to the information received, the discussion will take place on September 21st, followed by the confirmation vote on September 22nd, 2023.

    As previously reported, is expected that the Government Party (PS – Partido Socialista), which holds the majority of seats in the parliament, reconfirms the “Mais Habitação” law. If so, and since only the majority of the votes are necessary for this matter, the next step in this process is to send the document to the President of the Republic.

    After the voting, the bill will be sent to the President within the next 5 to 7 business days. Upon receiving the law the President has the usual 20-day deadline to decide if he will publish it or not.

    Our advice to all our clients is to move forward as soon as possible with their investments. The current timelines will allow investors to start and submit their process before the potential end of the Golden Visa program.

    In this sense, it is essential that we make our investors aware that the current average time to conclude the investment, with IAS, is around one week, which – under current timing, provides enough time to invest still and be part of the Portuguese investment program.

    We will continue to monitor the situation as closely as possible, keeping investors and partners informed of any developments while remaining available for any clarifications needed.

  • Change of Law – Golden Visa | Recent News

    We would like to inform you that today the President of the Republic has vetoed the “Mais Habitação” law.

    The next step in this process is the return of the “Mais Habitação” law to the Parliament where it can be i) changed by the Parliament and sent again to the President or ii) confirmed by the majority of the deputies at the Parliament and in this case the President will need to accept it.

    In any case, it is unreasonable to expect that the Parliament makes any decision before the end of September 2023, since at the moment the Parliament is closed for the summer break.

    Our advice to all our clients is to move forward as soon as possible with their investments. The current timelines will allow investors to start and submit their process before the potential end of the Golden Visa program.

    In this sense, it is essential that we make our investors aware that the current average time to conclude the investment, with IAS, is around one week, which – under current timing, provides enough time to invest and be part of the Portuguese investment program.

    We will continue to monitor the situation as closely as possible, keeping investors and partners informed of any developments while remaining available for any clarifications needed.

  • Portugal among the favorite destinations of American Tourists

    According to the European Travel Commission, there was a 79% increase in tourist arrivals from the United States of America.

    In the first quarter of 2023, according to data from Turismo de Portugal, North American passengers registered an increase of 64.7%. In overnight stays in tourist accommodation, there was an increase of about 107% over the same period last year.

    The most recent study by the European Travel Commission points to Portugal as one of the European countries of choice for North American tourists, due to the direct flights, low prices, and the discovery of a fascinating country.

    The European Travel Commission says that the signs of a new wave of tourists from the United States have been instrumental in the recovery of European tourism, which has already reached 95% of pre-pandemic levels, and that the pace should continue in the second half of the year.

  • Portugal is the 7th Most Peaceful Country in the World!

    Source: Vision of Humanity

    The conclusion comes from the Australia-based Institute for Economics and Peace, which has published the latest update of the Global Peace Index.

    In this report, Portugal moves up one position compared to last year but remains far from the third place reached in 2020. In the Global Peace Index analysis, Portugal is also the fourth country in a table that addresses the field of militarization.

    In recent years, Portugal has emerged as one of the top climbers in the Global Peace Index, moving from 18th place in 2014 to the top 10. Ranking above the average for industrialized nations in terms of housing, work-life balance, personal safety, and environmental quality, Portugal is also considered a top destination for its overall quality of life.

    The ranking of the Institute for Economics and Peace ranking is once again topped by Iceland. In second place, Ireland gave way to Denmark and dropped one position, while New Zealand climbed four places to fourth.

    The world’s leading measure of global peace covers 163 independent states and territories home to 99.7% of the world’s population. The ranking, which is based on 23 indicators grouped into three criteria (societal safety and security; extent of ongoing domestic and international conflict; and degree of militarization), shows 84 countries recording improvement and 79 showing deterioration.

  • Hard Rock International and Mercan Properties Announce Plans for New Hard Rock Hotel Algarve in Portugal

    Hard Rock International announced development plans to open a new Hard Rock Hotel Algarve in Portugal. The new development will be located near the gorgeous sands in Praia do Vau, Portimão, further expanding the iconic brand’s global reach. The property, set to begin construction in early 2024 and open in Summer 2026, will have around 275 luxurious rooms and suites and an additional 150 branded serviced apartments.

    Along with direct access to the beach while on the property, guests will enjoy a wide range of amenities including the beloved Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club™, three restaurants, three bars, three exterior pools, a Rock Spa, a Gym, a Rock Shop, a Sports Area and Beach Club.

    “We’re delighted to expand Hard Rock Hotel’s unparalleled offerings to the beautiful country of Portugal in 2026,” said Todd Hricko, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Hotel Development for Hard Rock International. “This new development will further extend the enhanced entertainment experience our guests know and love to yet another part of the world, while incorporating the country’s amazing culture.”

    An ideal vacation area, the town of Portimão hosts historic ports, a lively marina and is globally known for the Algarve International Autodrome, where the Portuguese Grand Prix was held in 2020 and 2021. The town has some of the best beaches in the Algarve region with extensive sandy coastline paired with calm, warm and clear waters. Vau Beach, where the property will be located, borders coppery cliffs, turquoise waters and a large selection of restaurants offering fresh fish.

    “The Hard Rock brand is consistently elevating and expanding its luxury offerings and it’s a pleasure to be a part of this amazing evolution,” said Jordi Vilanova, President of Mercan Properties. “We’re excited to create a unique asset on the shores of Praia do Vau that reflects the Portuguese culture and attracts visitors from around the globe. We believe that this collaboration between Mercan Properties and Hard Rock International will be a great success in Algarve and a very positive contribution to the country. Algarve continues to be of great interest and attention from Mercan, illustrated by our investment in the region in the form of four projects. Portugal is undoubtedly a tourist destination of excellence at the world level.”

    The new development is expected to create over 400 jobs in the area throughout the construction and operations of the property starting in 2024. The hotel is also anticipated to increase the potential of the tourism experience in the country.

    For more information on Hard Rock Hotel Algarve, visit HardRockHotels.com.