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Category: News

  • Fresh regulations aimed at modernizing and streamlining immigration procedures

    The Portuguese Government has set forth a plan for 2024 to expedite and streamline immigration proceedings in Portugal. This initiative is evident in the revised regulatory decree altering the legal framework for Foreign Law in Portugal (Law no. 23/2007).

    Recent amendments to the law, integrated within the “Mais Habitação” program, have notably led to the restructuring of SEF – Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras, culminating in the establishment of the new agency AIMA – Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo, I. P. Consequently, it has become imperative to consolidate these recent changes in the legislation.

    The primary objective is to modernize and simplify the administrative processes currently overseen by immigration authorities. This overhaul aims to equip the new agency, AIMA, with the necessary tools to assess and expedite cases more efficiently, reducing bureaucratic hurdles while upholding heightened security standards.

    These measures align with the Government’s stated objective for the new agency to address the prevailing backlog and delays in application reviews.

  • Mercan Properties Invests Three Million in the “Last Urban Park” in the Center of Porto

    In August 2024, the development of “the final urban park within Porto’s city center” will encompass 1.7 hectares, representing a substantial investment of three million euros, spearheaded by the Canadian conglomerate Mercan Properties.

    During the commencement ceremony for the Lapa Urban Park, the Mayor of Porto emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “This marks the culmination of our efforts in establishing urban parks within the city center. There are no remaining spaces comparable to this expansive 1.7-hectare haven.” This project, facilitated by a three-million-euro investment from Mercan Properties, owners of the Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel, is anticipated to be unveiled by August 2024, with Mayor Rui Moreira relinquishing one million euros in taxes to materialize this verdant space.

    This endeavor is the outcome of a collaborative venture between the municipal authorities and the Canadian group, intertwined with the licensing procedures for the new hotel. It encompasses the group’s involvement in the redevelopment of streets like Cervantes and Alves Redol, now accessible to traffic since March, without fee exemptions but through a land transfer as part of the Urban Development Plan, as elucidated by Urban Planning Councillor Pedro Baganha.

    Jordi Vilanova, President of Mercan Properties, envisions this as the group’s commitment to sustainable progress and city life enhancement, forging a green legacy for forthcoming generations in Porto.

    Over recent years, Porto’s municipality has seen an increase in green spaces, reaching 76 hectares through enhancements and expansions, with 22 hectares devoted to novel areas, such as Oriental Park, City Park’s western precinct, São Roque Park expansion, Asprela Park construction, and the verdant roof of the Campanhã Intermodal Terminal.

  • Casa das Lérias featured in the travel column of Le Figaro Newspaper

    Casa das Lérias was recently featured in the travel column of Le Figaro Newspaper, where it was highlighted as an excellent choice for a fall getaway in Porto. The article, titled “What to Visit in Porto? Our Top 5 Getaways in the North of Portugal,” recommends extending a weekend in Porto with an exploration of the surrounding areas accessible by train, car, or bus.

    Among the recommended destinations, Amarante stands out for its timeless charm and traditional pastries. Situated halfway between bustling Porto and the scenic Douro, Amarante remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. The city, nestled on both sides of the River Tâmega, invites leisurely exploration. Visitors are encouraged to begin their journey at Confeitaria da Ponte, the city’s oldest confectionery, renowned for its delectable convent sweets like “Brisas do Tâmega” or “Toucinhos do Céu.”

    The next stop on the itinerary is a museum dedicated to the acclaimed artist Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, a native of Amarante and a trailblazer in modern art during the early 20th century. For those seeking outdoor activities, a hike in the Serra de Marão or a cycling adventure along the converted railway line (Ecopista do Tâmega, 40 km) from Amarante to Cabeceiras de Basto are recommended, offering picturesque views of villages, vineyards, forests, and natural parks.

    When planning a stay in Amarante, Casa das Lérias emerges as an ideal accommodation choice. Situated in the heart of the city, this charming hotel offers rooms with delightful views overlooking the River Tâmega. It captures hearts with its allure and provides exceptional value starting from €58 for a double room. Casa das Lérias, located at R. Cândido dos Reis 1, 4600-758 Amarante, serves as an excellent home base for exploring the wonders of Amarante.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Portugal Golden Visa Program: the latest update July 20

    After the voting that took place today at the Parliament, we can announce that we have just received the final version of the “Mais Habitação” law, approved by the Parliament.

    As already announced in our last communication, the Portuguese Golden Visa program will continue. Moreover, the bill’s final version does not contemplate the continuity of the ARI regime under the investment-related categories of real estate for residential purposes and rehabilitation, as well as bank deposits.

    Despite the end of the program for these categories, it is made clear in the final version that all applications submitted until the entering into force of the new law will be fully processed according to the existing rules and regulations, and renewal rights will be fully assured for investors and family members.

    The next step in this process is to send the “Mais Habitação” law to the President of the Republic. Here three scenarios may take place:

    i) Direct ratification, and in this case, the proposal will come into force on the day after the publication;

    ii) The President of the Republic does not accept the proposal as it is and returns it to the Parliament for revision; or

    iii) The President of the Republic does not issue an opinion on the document but requests its evaluation by the Constitutional Court.

    In any case, it is unreasonable to expect that, even if option i) takes place – direct ratification, the law comes into force before the middle/end of September. Our assumption is based on the package’s complexity – which will require extensive analysis- and the current holiday period, which will certainly add time to the current process.

    For further clarity, below you can find the detailed timeline of the process moving forward.

    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, we must 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 Golden Visa Latest Update

    On Portugal local time July 6, 2023, the special commission created for the analysis and preparation of the final draft of the “Mais Habitação” law approved the bill to be presented to Parliament.

    Despite the proposals presented by all parties to keep some options of investment, including the one initially presented by the government itself, the final draft does not contemplate the continuity of the ARI regime. Therefore, the present draft states that no applications will be admitted following the entering into force of the new law.

    Notwithstanding, there is relevant good news:

    • it was made clear that all applications submitted until the entering into force of the new law will be fully processed, and renewal rights will be fully assured;
    • The analysis of all files submitted up until the entering into force of any amends will follow all existing rules and regulations;
    • No changes will be implemented to the law regarding the adding of family members, which means that family reunification will still be possible after the changes are implemented
    • No changes were added regarding the access to citizenship and permanent residency were included.

    Regarding the timeline, we believe that the Parliament will vote on the current law up until July 19th, 2023.

    The final step of the process, if the current document is approved by the Parliament, will be sending the proposed shall be proposed bill to the President of the Republic.

    There is no way to determine how the President of the Republic will respond to the diploma, but three scenarios may take place:

    1.  Direct ratification and in this case, the proposal will come into force on the date set forth in the proposal.
    2. The President of the Republic does not accept the proposal as it is, and returns it to the Parliament for revision; or
    3. The President of the Republic does not issue an opinion on the document but requests its evaluation by the Constitutional Court.

    In any case, it is not reasonable to expect that, even if option i) takes place – direct ratification, the law comes into force before the middle/end of September. Our assumption is based both on the complexity of the package – which will require extensive analysis, and the current holiday period, which will for sure add time to the current process.

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

    In this sense, we must 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 still 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.