News & Updates

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 […]

 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 […]

Being a trailblazer in the investment landscape, Mercan Group has consistently demonstrated its commitment to international collaboration and strengthening its leadership position. In a remarkable demonstration of global synergy and the establishment of robust connections worldwide, Mercan Group continues to showcase its leadership and dedication to the investment and hospitality sectors through active participation in […]

April marked several anniversaries for Mercan Portugal, and today we commemorate the inaugural year of operations at the Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel. Situated in the heart of Porto, the Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel stands as a beacon of sustainability and innovative design, marking its first anniversary. As a proud addition to Mercan Portugal’s portfolio, this […]

Mercan Group is strengthening its investment in the Algarve region by acquiring the Hotel Califórnia Urban Beach, situated at Praia dos Pescadores in Albufeira. Under the management of AHM – Ace Hospitality Management, a company within the Mercan Group responsible for managing and developing hotel assets since April, this acquisition bolsters the group’s presence in […]

It’s been an incredible year for Mercan Group’s Sé Catedral Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, now recognized with two prestigious awards for the year of 2023 – the Hilton Excellence Award 2023 and the Tapestry Collection Brighter Award. The awards distinguished the Sé Catedral as the best of the Tapestry Collection and as one of […]

Portugal remains at the top of the global rankings for residence-by-investment programs, despite the introduction of new limitations. The picturesque country offers a blend of affordability and high-quality living, alongside seamless access to other European nations and a straightforward pathway to EU citizenship, as highlighted by a recent index from consultancy Henley & Partners. Austria […]

For US-based clients contemplating residency in Portugal, the golden visa still emerges as a highly attractive avenue. Portugal Golden Visa presents minimal residency prerequisites, requiring permit holders to spend an average of seven days annually in Portugal to uphold residency status. Such flexibility is particularly advantageous for those engaged in professional activities or who are […]

Mercan Group is delighted to announce compelling news regarding the political landscape in Portugal. Following recent elections, a new right-wing government has taken office, heralding a promising shift in policy direction, particularly concerning foreign investment initiatives such as the Golden Visa and Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) programs. The newly elected government has publicly endorsed both the […]

A momentous development has unfolded as the European Parliament greenlights fresh regulations designed to simplify legal migration within the European Union (EU). These regulations entail strict timelines for processing residence permit applications, slashing waiting periods to a maximum of 90 days. Such a streamlined approach is poised to compel EU member states to accelerate decision-making […]

In 2023, the Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel made its debut as the premier luxury business hotel in the country, a distinction that has now been recognized at the World Travel Awards during this year’s ceremony in Berlin, Germany. This accolade underscores Porto’s rising prominence in the hospitality and tourism sector, an industry that the region […]

Discover Porto and its timeless allure, with the Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel as your exquisite sanctuary. Perched gracefully atop the scenic Lapa hill, this Mercan Group gem offers 163 opulent rooms and suites, each enveloping guests in luxury and comfort, while providing sweeping vistas of the city below. Selecting the perfect destination for Easter can […]