The information below has been drawn up by and provided to the UM by two local banks. However, you may opt to seek to open an account with any other local bank.
The International Student Savings Account is specifically designed for foreign students following tertiary education at the University of Malta. It is a basic account used to:
To open an International Student Savings Account, visit APS Bank’s Sliema Branch at 226, Tower Road, Sliema, SLM1600. You need to present the following document to proceed with the profile opening process:
Following the submission of the above-mentioned documentation, the Bank will start its on-boarding process and any necessary due diligence procedures. After a few weeks, the Bank will invite you to visit its Sliema Branch again to finalise the opening of the International Student Savings Account.
During your second visit to the APS Sliema Branch, you will be asked to make an initial minimum deposit of EUR 25 to activate the new account.
Following the account activation, you will be able to make deposits and withdrawals using your Visa debit card at any ATMs.
You will also be able to carry out third-party payments and view transactions through the myAPS internet banking service.
View the information on the Internation Student Savings Accoung and its Terms and Conditions.
Terms and conditions may apply.
Eligibility criteria
If you require a bank account with BOV you must be a registered student and undertaking studies at the University of Malta for a minimum period of 6 months.
We provide assistance to start the application process but cannot intervene on behalf of the student or be part of any decision making process that is undertaken by the bank. BOV considers, on a case by case basis, all applications, including requests from individuals who are considered to be Politically Exposed Persons.
You may visit your preferred branch to open a bank account.
Proof of student status (Student Support Letter)
The International Office issues, upon request, a Student Support Letter which is proof of your student status. Please ensure that information on the online form (see below) corresponds to your personal details on your e-Sims portal. We will send the letter by email.
New students
Documentation you require for the opening of bank accounts is below. However, the Bank reserves the right to request further documentation it may deem necessary.
valid passport
proof of Student status - letter confirming registration at the University. (Fill in the Support Letter form)
a valid entry visa or in the case of nationals from a country where there is a visa waiver the passport stamp indicating the date of entry.
proof of submission of residence permit application
sponsored students and students on a scholarship are to provide evidence of the source of funds that will be received (i.e. letter from the sponsor/scholarship body)
self-funded are required to provide evidence of source of funds i.e.: a recent bank statement and basic personal details* of the person who will be funding them.
family-funded students are required to provide evidence of source of funds i.e.: a recent bank statement and basic personal details* of the person who will be funding them and a copy of the personal details page of the passport/identification document of the person who will provide funding is required.
New students who apply for a bank account before they are in possession of the e-Residence card are required to visit your BOV branch and have the Permit card scanned on the bank’s IT system once this has been issued.
Current Students:
Documentation you require for the opening of bank accounts. However, the Bank reserves the right to request further documentation it may deem necessary.
• Valid passport
• Proof of Student status - letter confirming registration at the University. (refer to Support Letter)
• Receipt of e-Residence Permit application
• Proof of Student status- letter confirming registration at the University.
Termination of studies
When opening a bank account, you will be informed by bank officials of your obligation to inform them about:
• closing the account in good time – you are to provide BOV with disposal instructions.
• Should you decide to terminate your studies before the stipulated period or upon completion of your study programme.
Extension of studies
Should you need to extend your studies, we can in this case provide proof of the extension of studies.
*Basic Personal Details
Name and surname
Permanent residential address
Date and place of birth
Father's name/mother's name and maiden surname, where applicable
Passport number, country of issue, date of issue, expiry date
Contact details i.e. telephone number, email address
Marital status
Occupation and occupation sector, where applicable
Should you need any further guidance on the above please contact the International Office.