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.