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Interesting, we were offered an od facility when we opened our account with HSBC Malta. Seems to depend upon who you speak to?

it may also depend on whether your balance or savings can support/justify the offer of one. we have had one from day one for the last 5 years. am not so sure with the new EU rules on banking  within the EU that they can legally refuse or make the offer subject to 2 years residency. I know some people have asked for credit cards here and were asked to deposit the same level of funds equal to the required credit limit.

The HSBC is obviously looking at the credit side of this and without you being in a position in Malta for a longer period then they cannot offer this to you at the moment, you would obviously have to put yourself in their shoes.

Julian

I worked in a bank. They are not forced to do it this way, it is a decision. I'm pretty sure it's different with other banks on the island but I don't know for certain, which is why I am asking for other experiences.

The simple fact is, its a lending facility, and theirs a whole list of criteria that need to be met, for them to accept the application for credit.

There is too little competition in banking in Malta. No major continental banks have branches here. That allows the existing banks to care little about the customer. It's not that he has much choice.

Look at the mess the continental banks have made. Also not worth their investment.

a necessary evil from my point of view

Its jsut the way it is here, if you dont need the overdraft then why bother, wait until you have been here a while longer then apply for it when you need it.

J