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  • Quebec Sets Limit on Family Sponsorship Applications

    Quebec’s Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration has imposed a cap on family sponsorship applications from June 26, 2024, to June 25, 2026.

    The cap limits applications to 13,000:

    • 10,400 for spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children aged 18+.
    • 2,600 for parents, grandparents, and other eligible relatives.

    Exemptions apply to:

    • Dependent minor children.
    • Minor children for adoption.
    • Orphaned minor children of siblings or grandchildren.
    • Dependent adult children with disabilities.

    Once the cap is reached, no further applications will be accepted, and non-exempt applications will be returned.

    Stay informed and plan ahead to sponsor your family for Canadian immigration!

  • Mercan Group Announcement: Extension of Residency Titles Validity in Portugal

    We are pleased to inform you that the Portuguese Government has extended the validity of all residency titles until June 30th, 2025. This decision, made after the Council of Ministers’ meeting, is part of a broader Public Administration Reform and Migration Action Plan.

    Public Administration Reform

    This reform, set to be implemented over the next four years, focuses on:

    • Enhancing unity and effectiveness of administrative actions;
    • Promoting cost-efficiency through shared resources;
    • Encouraging innovation and specialization;
    • Improving organizational and operational models.

     Migration Action Plan

    The Migration Action Plan includes three key pillars:

    • Proactive Immigration Attraction: The Agency for Integration, Migrations, and Asylum (AIMA) will proactively attract immigrants.
    • Migration Observatory: Establishing the Migration Observatory to value migration data and insights.
    • Extension of Documents and Visas: Extending the validity of documents and visas related to staying in Portugal until June 30th, 2025.

    Additionally, a Task Force for the Recovery of Pending Processes at AIMA has been created. This task force, operating until June 2, 2025, will focus on analyzing and deciding on pending processes for the regularization of foreigners, with up to 300 personnel dedicated to administrative processing and applicant assistance.

    At Mercan Group, we consider this extension very positive news for our investors. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to the rights and expectations of all individuals who have chosen Portugal for their residency.

    We understand the significance of this development for our clients and remain committed to providing continuous support throughout the process. Please rest assured that we are closely monitoring the situation and will provide timely updates as new information becomes available.

  • Mercan Group’s Landmark Seminar in London: Elevating Portugal’s Tourism and Hospitality

    On June 19th, Mercan Group, in collaboration with the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK and IAS, hosted its first special seminar in London! 🎉

    The event showcased Mercan Group’s significant contributions to Portugal’s tourism and hospitality sectors, attracting a diverse audience of partners and business leaders.

    Jordi Vilanova, President of Mercan Portugal, led the seminar, highlighting Mercan’s impact on these sectors and its collaboration with internationally awarded brands that have elevated Portugal’s global tourism appeal.

    The seminar also unveiled Mercan Group’s future strategies, including the Investment Fund Program, aimed at fostering sustainable growth and innovation in Portugal’s hospitality sector. 

    Stay tuned for more updates on our journey to drive investment and development in Portugal!

  • Funding Your Golden Visa in Portugal with Mercan Group and IAS

    A Trusted Partnership for Your European Gateway

    In today’s dynamic global landscape of investment and immigration, Mercan Group and IAS are forging a pioneering path for investors pursuing residency in Portugal through the Golden Visa (GV) program. This strategic alliance merges Mercan Group’ extensive experience in hospitality investments with IAS’s legal proficiency, presenting an innovative alternative funding avenue that makes European residency more attainable than ever before.

    Mercan Group: A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

    Established in Canada in 1989, Mercan Group has emerged as a leader in consultancy, education, and immigration through investment. With over three decades of expertise, Mercan Group has chosen Portugal as its European headquarters since 2015, drawn by the nation’s security, stability, and vibrant prospects in urban revitalization for tourism.

    Mercan’s dedication to Portugal is palpable through its €1.2 billion investment across 31 hospitality projects nationwide. These initiatives not only stimulate economic growth and job creation but also significantly bolster the tourism sector, perfectly aligning with the objectives of the Golden Visa program.

    Golden Visa Program: Your Gateway to European Residency

    The Portuguese Golden Visa program remains a premier choice for international investors seeking residency within the European Union. Despite recent legislative adjustments that have refined the program, it continues to offer compelling opportunities, particularly through investment funds.

    To qualify for the Golden Visa, investors must meet three essential criteria:

    • Spend a minimum of seven days annually in Portugal.
    • Maintain a clean criminal record.
    • Fulfill the required investment, starting from €250,000 for donations and €500,000 for investment funds.

    The Portuguese passport extends numerous advantages, including visa-free access to over 185 countries, facilitating global mobility. It grants rights to reside, work, and study in any of the 27 European Union nations, offering diverse avenues for personal and professional advancement. Moreover, it provides access to Portugal’s renowned healthcare and education systems, celebrated for their excellence and affordability. Additionally, Portuguese citizenship can be passed down to family members, ensuring future generations enjoy these privileges. Expatriates benefit from favorable tax conditions, notably the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime, offering substantial tax incentives for the initial decade of residency. Portugal’s political and economic stability, safety, and high living standards further enhance its appeal.

    Furthermore, the transition to the new Immigration and Borders Service (AIMA) promises streamlined application processing. AIMA’s expansion of its workforce and collaboration with legal experts underscore its commitment to efficiency and accessibility.

    Introducing the Mercan Fund: A Pathway to Investment

    The Mercan Fund represents a tailored private equity investment vehicle crafted to align seamlessly with the Portuguese Golden Visa program. Focused on low-risk opportunities within Portugal’s hospitality sector, this fund offers investors a diversified portfolio comprising hotel projects. With a minimum investment of €500,000, the Mercan Fund not only ensures stable returns but also features a buyback option for added security, making it an astute choice for discerning investors.

    Innovative Funding Solutions: Leveraging Retirement Funds for Your Golden Visa

    In partnership with IAS, Mercan Group proudly introduces an innovative solution for US investors: leveraging retirement funds, such as IRAs and 401(k)s, to finance their Golden Visa investment. This pioneering approach diversifies investors’ portfolios and provides a tax-efficient pathway to residency within the European Union.

    By utilizing retirement funds, investors secure Portuguese residency without disrupting their savings strategy, ensuring both financial growth and personal security. This method opens new avenues for US investors to capitalize on Portugal’s favorable conditions and the manifold benefits of the Golden Visa program.

    The collaboration between Mercan Group and IAS represents a significant advancement in the Golden Visa landscape. By offering innovative funding solutions and leveraging their combined expertise, they provide a streamlined, secure, and efficient pathway to European residency.

    Don’t miss this opportunity to diversify your investment portfolio and secure a foothold in Europe. Take the next step in your Portuguese residency journey today with Mercan and IAS and unlock the myriad benefits of the Golden Visa program.

    Contact Us

    For more information, please visit our websites or contact our expert team today. Your European dream is within reach—let us help you make it a reality!

  • Mercan Portugal Celebrates Milestones at Four Iconic Hotels

    Mercan Portugal is thrilled to celebrate two years of operation at Sé Catedral Hotel, a Tapestry Collection by Hilton, Four Points by Sheraton Matosinhos, and Fontinha Hotel, a Trademark Collection by Wyndham, along with the very first anniversary of Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel.

    Congratulations to our outstanding projects, esteemed guests, and dedicated team for making this possible！

  • Golden Visa 2024: where to get the best one

    For those with enough money, purchasing residency in another country becomes possible. Several countries offer “golden visas,” and some even provide full citizenship through “golden passports.” The cost varies significantly; some visas cater exclusively to the wealthy, while others come at more affordable rates.

    What’s a golden visa?

    Often called a “residence by investment program,” a golden visa allows individuals to obtain temporary or permanent residency in a country, enabling them to live and work there. In some cases, buyers don’t even need to reside full-time in the country, making these visas a practical backup plan for those who want the option of traveling to these places without the intention of permanent relocation.

    Are golden visas new? Why are they popular?

    Some programs have existed for decades, providing a way for governments to raise funds and encourage foreign investment. For example, during the European debt crisis, golden visas gained popularity as several countries began selling residency to attract foreign money and address budget deficits. Countries like Portugal, Ireland, Greece, and Hungary adopted these programs after receiving bailouts from the European Union and International Monetary Fund.

    For instance, Portugal started offering golden visas in 2012 to non-EU nationals willing to invest at least €500,000 ($537,000) in property, a fund, or a company that creates jobs. Later, they reduced the property investment requirement to €350,000. In 2013, Greece, Spain, and Hungary launched their own golden visa programs, offering residence permits in exchange for real estate investments. These programs also grant the right to travel freely across many EU countries.

    How hard is it to get a golden visa now?

    While in Portugal, purchasing residential real estate no longer qualifies for a golden visa, some options remain. Investors can still qualify by investing in a qualified investment fund worth at least €500,000, participating in scientific research activities, or investing in the share capital of a company that creates five jobs or maintains ten jobs.

    Additionally, in March, Greece announced plans to increase the minimum investment amount for foreign property buyers to secure a golden visa to €400,000, thus remaining an option for those who can meet the higher threshold.

    Meanwhile, the cost of obtaining citizenship-by-investment is rising in the Caribbean, where such programs constitute more than half the national revenue for some small island nations. Some Caribbean passports allow visa-free travel to the UK and EU through bilateral agreements, which raises concerns among European regulators that these schemes might serve as a gateway for criminals. Consequently, European governments are pressuring Caribbean nations to restrict these programs.

  • Mercan Hotels Nominated for the 2024 Publituris Travel Awards

    We are excited to announce that Mercan Hotels has received prestigious nominations for the Publituris Travel Awards 2024!

    The Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel competes for ‘Best City Hotel’.  The Arts Hotel Porto, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, runs for ‘Best 4-Star Hotel’. At the same time,  the Hilton Garden Inn Évora also vies for ‘Best City Hotel.’

    These nominations, part of 22 award categories starting May 27th, reflect our relentless pursuit of excellence and dedication to creating memorable experiences for our guests. This recognition underscores our commitment to excellence and highlights our dedication to providing outstanding city experiences.

  • Mercan Group Shines at Spear’s 500 Event

    Mercan Group joins the prestigious Spear’s 500, an event that has become a must-attend for the ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) community.
     
    Spear’s is a multi-award-winning global wealth, business, and culture media brand, known for its insightful magazine that caters to UHNW individuals. Spear’s 500 events, particularly the one held in London, attract high-net-worth individuals and industry leaders from around the world to explore elite investment opportunities. These events are celebrated for their exclusive atmosphere, unparalleled networking opportunities, and deep insights into the latest trends in wealth management and investment.
     
    At this year’s Spear’s 500 event in London, Mercan Group participated as a key player, further enhancing the event’s prestige. The event brought together HNW individuals and industry leaders to discuss top-tier investment opportunities, focusing on the latest trends in global wealth management.
     
    Mercan Group used this platform to reaffirm its status as a leader in global investment and development within Portugal’s hospitality sector through its investment funds. The event featured stops in key financial hubs, offering in-depth insights into their investment and management practices. Financial advisers and service providers from various interrelated fields gathered, providing private client professionals with a comprehensive overview of current focus areas for UHNWIs.
     
    Panel discussions at the event were particularly insightful, addressing the main concerns and interests of UHNWIs. Since its launch in 2006, Spear’s has established itself as Europe’s leading authority on wealth management and a respected voice on arts, business, and lifestyle. By using events, awards, and research-based products and services, Spear’s connects financial and luxury brands with an exclusive audience. Mercan Group’s participation in this event underscores its influence and commitment to leading the investment and hospitality sectors in Portugal.

  •  Celebrating 35 Years of Global Excellence with Mercan Group! 

    2024 marks a monumental milestone for Mercan Group as we proudly celebrate 35 years of dedicated service and global impact!
     
    Since our humble beginnings in Montreal, Canada, over three decades ago, Mercan Group has expanded its reach far and wide, establishing a formidable presence in over 30 countries across the globe. From Canada to Portugal, the Philippines to China, Vietnam to the United Arab Emirates, and beyond, our journey has been remarkable.
     
    Over the years, Mercan Group has been at the forefront of facilitating investments, recruitment, and immigration services, helping individuals and families achieve their dreams of international mobility and prosperity.
     
    Until now, Mercan Group has helped more than 60,000 individuals of various origins settle worldwide. We’ve helped over 20,000 foreign workers come to Canada, the USA, the Middle East, and the Caribbean Islands.

     

     Some of our flagship projects include the prestigious Portugal Golden Visa Program, the Canadian Start-Up Visa Program, and our new Nanny and Caregiver Program. Additionally, we’ll be launching the Greece Golden Visa very soon!

     

    These initiatives, alongside various Canadian immigration programs, stand as a testament to our unwavering dedication to fostering growth, diversity, and opportunity on a global scale.

     
    As we reflect on our journey thus far, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our loyal followers, esteemed clients, and dedicated team members who have been instrumental in our success.
     
    Your trust and support fuel our drive to soar higher, and we pledge to deliver even more exceptional services in the future. Our steadfast dedication to excellence and integrity remains resolute as we serve our cherished clients and partners with unwavering dedication and fervor.
     
    Here’s to 35 years of excellence, innovation, and global impact with Mercan Group!
     
    The journey continues, and we are excited about the future. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and announcements as we embark on the next chapter of our remarkable journey！
     

  • Exploring Schengen Area Visa Requirements: A Detailed Overview

     The privilege of unrestricted movement within the Schengen area is a significant benefit for holders of European Union (EU) passports or residency. However, this right, established in the 1990s with the signing of the Schengen Treaty in Luxembourg, comes with complexities and limitations. In this guide, we delve into the intricacies of Schengen visa requirements and regulations essential for seamless travel within this exclusive zone.

    Origins and Development of the Schengen Treaty

    The Schengen Treaty, signed in 1985, initially involved Belgium, West Germany, France, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, with Portugal joining shortly after in 1990. However, full implementation occurred on March 26, 1995. While integrated into EU Regulations, participation remains voluntary for member states. The Schengen Area recently expanded with Bulgaria and Romania joining on March 31, 2024, leaving Ireland and Cyprus outside its scope. Additionally, non-EU nations like Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are part of the Schengen Area, highlighting its international significance. Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City, while not formal signatories, maintain open borders within the Schengen Zone.

    Understanding Schengen Visa Regulations

    Regulation (EU) 2018/1806 outlines the legal framework governing the Schengen Area, facilitating short-term stays for EU nationals, residents, and third-country nationals for various purposes. Third-country nationals typically apply for a Schengen visa in their country of residence. However, some nationals benefit from visa exemptions for tourist stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Nonetheless, possessing a visa does not guarantee entry, as border authorities retain discretion to refuse entry based on documentation and compliance with entry requirements.

    Key Considerations for Schengen Visa Holders and EU Residents

    The duration of stay within the Schengen Area depends on the visa’s stipulations, with exceeding permitted durations or violating entry conditions resulting in legal ramifications. Both visa-exempt citizens and legal residents must adhere to the 90/180-day rule. Moreover, an expired residence permit does not grant permission for movement within the Schengen Zone, emphasizing the need for valid documentation throughout one’s stay.

    In conclusion, the Schengen Area offers a welcoming and free travel space while ensuring safety and security. To preserve these features, visitors must be aware of all regulations, visa procedures, and permanency limits.