How To Choose a Credit Card in Malta

A credit card can be a helpful financial tool when used responsibly. It gives you more flexibility when managing everyday spending, shopping online, travelling, or dealing with unexpected expenses. For people with a steady income, a credit card in Malta can support financial independence by offering convenience, security and short-term breathing space when needed.

However, a credit card should not be seen as extra income. It is a payment tool that gives you access to an approved credit limit, which must be repaid. When managed well, it can help you stay in control of your finances, earn cashback and build good credit habits over time.

Credit card in Malta: Key takeaways

• A credit card gives you short-term financial flexibility.
• Paying your full balance by the due date means no interest is charged.
• Responsible use can help build a positive credit history.
• APS Credit Cards come with no annual fee, cashback and secure payments.
• The APS Classic Credit Card is ideal for everyday use, while the APS Gold Credit Card offers additional travel-related benefits.

What is a credit card?

A credit card lets you make purchases using an approved credit limit. This is the maximum amount you can spend, based on your income, credit history and risk profile.

Unlike a debit card, which uses money directly from your bank account, a credit card in Malta allows you to buy now and pay later. You then receive a monthly statement showing your transactions, your outstanding balance and the payment due date.

If you pay the full outstanding balance by the due date, no interest is charged. If you only pay the minimum amount, interest applies to the remaining balance.

Credit card vs debit card

A debit card is linked directly to your own funds. When you use it, money is taken from your account.

A credit card works differently. It gives you access to credit up to an approved limit. This can be useful for online purchases, travel bookings, emergencies and larger expenses, especially when you want more flexibility in how you manage payments.

Both cards are useful, but they serve different purposes. A debit card helps you spend what you already have, while a credit card gives you short-term financial flexibility that needs to be managed carefully.

Why having a credit card in Malta can be useful

Credit cards can help individuals who want to manage expenses more conveniently, earn cashback on purchases, finance larger short-term expenses or have a backup option in case of emergencies.

They can also be useful when travelling or shopping online, where a credit card may offer added security and protection. For example, APS Credit Cards allow secure online payments using 3DS, can be used locally and overseas, and include purchase protection insurance.

Using a credit card responsibly may also support your credit profile. Making payments on time and staying within your limit shows that you can manage credit well, which may be helpful when applying for other financial products in the future.

APS Classic Credit Card vs APS Gold Credit Card

APS Bank offers two main credit card options: the APS Classic Credit Card and the APS Gold Credit Card.

Here is the simplest way to compare them:

How to apply for an APS Credit Card

To apply, you must be over 18 years old and a myAPS mobile app user. You will need to complete the RL03 Credit Card Application Form and provide an identification document.

You can fill out the form below or send a secure message through myAPS to set an appointment. Visit this page to learn more.

Final thoughts

A credit card in Malta can support financial independence when used with care. It can help you manage spending, prepare for unexpected costs and access useful benefits such as cashback and purchase protection.

The key is to use it responsibly: stay within your limit, check your monthly statement and pay your full balance on time whenever possible.

Book an appointment to apply for your APS Credit Card or compare the APS Classic Credit Card and APS Gold Credit Card to find the option that suits your needs.

FAQs

What is the difference between the APS Classic Credit Card and the APS Gold Credit Card?

The APS Classic Credit Card offers cashback, purchase protection, and a credit limit of up to €6,000. The APS Gold Credit Card includes those same core benefits, but adds higher cashback, a higher limit of up to €10,000, travel insurance, vehicle hire excess protection, and life insurance.

Do APS Credit Cards charge an annual fee?

No. Both the APS Classic Credit Card and the APS Gold Credit Card come with no annual fee.

How much cashback do APS Credit Cards offer?

Classic cardholders earn €0.01 for every €10 spent, while Gold cardholders earn €0.02 for every €10 spent.

Will I pay interest every time I use my credit card?

No. If you pay your full outstanding balance by the payment due date, no interest is charged. Interest applies only when you carry a balance beyond the due date.

What is the APR on APS Credit Cards?

The APR on both the APS Classic Credit Card and the APS Gold Credit Card is 7.8% per annum.

Can I use APS Credit Cards abroad and online?

Yes. APS Credit Cards can be used locally and overseas, and they support secure online payments with 3DS.

Who can apply for an APS Credit Card in Malta?

Applicants must be over 18 years old and be myAPS mobile app users.

Approved and issued by APS Bank plc, APS Centre, Tower Street, B’Kara BKR 4012. APS Bank plc is regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority as a Credit Institution under the Banking Act 1994. Applications are subject to the Bank’s lending criteria. Terms and conditions apply and are available on apsbank.com.mt/terms-and-conditions.