I am a non-EU resident who has just moved to Malta and have acquired proper papers to live here with the possibility or opening my own business with friends who are Maltese.

I went to HSBC to inquire about opening a bank account in Malta. Among the things I asked about was credit cards and the limits I could have on a credit card. The lady who was serving me said I could only have a debit card.

I asked why and whether there was a possibility of having a credit card facility after six months or so when they have seen my account’s status. She said no.

Digging deeper I was told by her that as a foreigner I cannot have a credit card facility with HSBC.

I stood up, thanked her for her time and walked away horrified at what I had learnt.

Now I regret not asking her for the statement in writing as I am sure I would have sued them. I can’t believe Malta is part of the EU.

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