Source: The Portugal News. 

Introduction: A Trusted Partnership for Your European Gateway

In the dynamic landscape of global investment and immigration, Mercan Properties and IAS are charting a new course for investors seeking residency in Portugal through the Golden Visa (GV) program. This innovative partnership combines Mercan Properties' vast experience in hospitality investments with IAS's legal expertise to offer a groundbreaking alternative funding method, making the dream of European residency more accessible than ever.

Mercan Properties: A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

Founded in Canada in 1989, Mercan Group has established itself as a leader in consultancy, education, and immigration through investment. With over three decades of expertise, Mercan has chosen Portugal as its European hub since 2015, attracted by the country's safety, stability, and vibrant opportunities in urban rehabilitation for tourism. Mercan's commitment to Portugal is evident through its €1.2 billion investment in 31 hospitality projects nationwide. These initiatives not only fuel economic growth and job creation but also significantly boost the tourism sector, aligning perfectly with the objectives of the Golden Visa program.

Golden Visa Program: Your Gateway to European Residency

The Portuguese Golden Visa program remains one of the most attractive options for foreign investors aiming to secure residency in the European Union. Despite recent legislative changes that have refined the program, it continues to offer compelling opportunities, particularly through investment funds.

To qualify for the Golden Visa, investors need to meet three key requirements:

1. Spend at least seven days per year in Portugal.
2. Maintain a clean criminal record.
3. Make the required investment, with options starting at €250,000 for donations and €500,000 for investment funds.

The Portuguese passport offers numerous benefits, including access to over 185 countries without the need for a visa, allowing for global mobility. It also provides the right to live, work, and study in any of the 27 European Union countries, offering a wide range of opportunities for personal and professional growth. Additionally, it grants access to Portugal's high-quality healthcare and education systems, known for their excellence and affordability. Moreover, it allows for the passing on of Portuguese citizenship to family members, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same benefits.

Expatriates also benefit from favorable tax conditions, including the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime, offering significant tax advantages for the first ten years of residency. Furthermore, living in Portugal provides the advantage of residing in a country known for its political and economic stability, safety, and high standard of living. In addition, with the transition to the new Immigration and Borders Service (AIMA), application processing is expected to improve. AIMA's initiative to expand its workforce and collaborate with legal professionals underscores its commitment to efficiency and accessibility.

Introducing the Mercan Fund: A Pathway to Investment

Mercan’s Fund is a private equity investment vehicle specifically designed to align with the Portuguese Golden Visa program. This fund focuses on low-risk opportunities within Portugal's hospitality sector, offering investors a diversified portfolio of hotel projects. With a minimum investment of €500,000, the Mercan Fund not only promises stable returns but also includes a buyback option for added security, making it a prudent choice for investors.

Innovative Funding Solutions: Leveraging Retirement Funds for Your Golden Visa

In collaboration with IAS, Mercan Properties is proud to introduce an innovative solution for US investors: the ability to use retirement funds, such as IRAs and 401(k)s, to finance their Golden Visa investment. This pioneering approach diversifies your portfolio and provides a tax-efficient route to residency in the European Union. By leveraging retirement funds, investors can secure Portuguese residency without disrupting their savings strategy, ensuring both financial growth and personal security. This method opens new doors for US investors, allowing them to take full advantage of Portugal's favorable conditions and the numerous benefits of the Golden Visa program. 

The collaboration between Mercan Properties 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 Properties and IAS and unlock the myriad benefits of the Golden Visa program.

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