Can foreigners open a bank account in Malta?

Yes. Both EU and non-EU nationals can open a bank account in Malta as legal residents. The main requirement is proof of legal residence (permit, lease, eResidence card) and standard identity documentation. Some banks are more welcoming to new arrivals than others. Digital banking and e-money accounts (Revolut, Wise) are a practical interim solution while waiting for a traditional account.

What documents are needed to open a bank account in Malta?

Typical requirements: valid passport, Maltese residence permit or eResidence card, proof of address in Malta (signed lease, utility bill, or Housing Authority lease registration), proof of income or employment contract. Some banks also ask for a reference letter from your employer and may request proof of source of funds for larger opening balances.

How long does it take to open a bank account in Malta?

This varies by bank. HSBC Malta and BOV (Bank of Valletta) are the two main banks and both have a formal onboarding process that can take 1–4 weeks. APS Bank is a smaller bank that some expats find more accessible. Digital banks and e-money accounts (Revolut, N26, Wise) can be opened from abroad in minutes, which is useful for the transition period.

Opening a Bank Account in Malta as a Foreigner: 2026 Guide

Malta's banks can be slow and documentation-heavy for new arrivals. This guide explains which banks are most accessible, what documents you need, and how to manage before your account is open.

Official SourceLast updated 9 June 2026

Malta’s main banks

Bank	Character	Ease for new arrivals
HSBC Malta	International bank, wider brand recognition. English-language service throughout.	Moderate — formal onboarding process, 2–4 weeks
BOV (Bank of Valletta)	Malta's largest local bank. Most ATMs and branches. Full service.	Moderate — documentation-heavy, 2–4 weeks
APS Bank	Smaller local bank. Some expats find the process more flexible.	Moderate — worth trying if the others are slow
MeDirect	Digital-first bank. More focused on savings and investment products.	Easier process for some profiles

Documents typically required

Valid passport — all main ID pages, plus the biometric data page.
Maltese residence permit — eResidence card, Single Permit, or other valid permit.
Proof of address in Malta — registered lease (Housing Authority confirmation), utility bill in your name, or employer letter confirming your address.
Employment contract or proof of income — recent payslips, or employer confirmation letter.
Tax identification number — Maltese TIN or foreign equivalent (depending on the bank).

Use a digital bank for the transition period

Revolut, Wise, and N26 can be opened online before you arrive in Malta. They provide an IBAN for receiving salary payments and a debit card for day-to-day spending. This covers the 2–4 week gap while your Maltese bank account application is processed.

Tips for a smoother application

Make your appointment at a branch rather than walking in — some banks prefer this for account-opening queries.
Bring certified translations of any documents that are not in English or Maltese.
If your employer is Maltese, ask HR for a standard employer reference letter — most Maltese banks accept these.
Some banks will not open an account until you have a registered lease. If you are staying in temporary accommodation, confirm with the bank whether a hotel or temporary address is acceptable.

Non-resident accounts

Non-resident accounts are technically available at some Maltese banks but are subject to more scrutiny and may have restrictions on the services available. If you are on a valid residence permit, applying as a resident is the standard path.

Online banking and mobile apps

Both BOV and HSBC Malta offer mobile apps and online banking. The apps are functional but not as polished as pure digital banks. BOV’s online banking is widely used for utility bill payments, which are commonly paid through the BOV eBanking platform in Malta.

Stay updated on Malta policy changes

Get notified when immigration rules, fees, or deadlines change. No spam — only policy updates.

Unsubscribe anytime. We never share your email.

Author and editorial standard

Maintained by MaltaPathway

This guide is written from public official sources and labelled limitations. MaltaPathway is independent, not a law firm or government agency. Founder proof, source policy, correction policy, and monetization disclosure live on the About and trust page.

Sources

Official SourceMoving to MaltaVerified 9 Jun 2026

Was this page helpful?

Found this useful? Share it:

ShareWhatsApp Facebook

MaltaPathway is not a law firm, immigration consultancy, or government agency. The information on this page is based on publicly available official sources and is provided for informational purposes only. Immigration rules change — always verify with the relevant authority before making decisions. If your case is complex, consult a licensed immigration lawyer.