This article will discuss some of the common uses of PayPal in Kenya and how individuals and businesses can benefit from this platform.
What is PayPal Kenya
PayPal Kenya is a popular service provided by PayPal, a global online payment system that allows individuals and businesses to send and receive money electronically. PayPal Kenya enables Kenyan users to create a PayPal account, link it to a local Kenyan bank account or credit card, and make online payments or receive payments from other PayPal users.
Kenyans can use PayPal to shop online, pay bills, book flights, and more. Freelancers in Kenya can receive payments from clients worldwide via PayPal, and businesses can use PayPal to pay for international goods and services.
Also, Paypal in Kenya users can withdraw funds to their local bank accounts like Equity Bank or mobile wallet (like PayPal-Mpesa).
How to Register or Join Paypal in Kenya
To use PayPal in Kenya, you need to follow these steps:
#1 Create a PayPal Account
Go to PayPal’s website and sign up for a personal or business account. You must provide your personal or business details, including your name, email address, and password.
#2 Link your PayPal Account
You need to link your PayPal account to either a local Kenyan bank account or a credit card that can be used for online transactions. You can also provide a phone number for mobile wallet transactions like PayPal-Mpesa.
#3 Verify Your PayPal Account
To start using PayPal in Kenya, you need to verify your account. PayPal will send you a verification code through your linked mobile number, bank account, or credit card statement. You must enter this code on PayPal’s website to confirm your account.
#4 Add Funds to Your PayPal Account
To use PayPal to make purchases, you need to add funds. You can transfer money from your Mpesa, linked bank account, or credit card.
#5 Start Using PayPal
Once your account is set up and verified, you can use it to make online purchases or receive payments from other users.
How to Use PayPal in Kenya
PayPal Kenya is a service that has gained popularity in Kenya due to its convenience and ease of use in making online transactions. Below are seven ways of using Paypal services in the country.
#1 Freelance Work
Freelancers in Kenya can receive payments from their clients worldwide via PayPal. Websites like Freelancer, Upwork and Task Rabbit pay using the platform.
#2 Online Shopping
Kenyan consumers can use PayPal to shop online at local and international e-commerce websites that accept PayPal payments.
#3 Sending and Receiving Money
PayPal allows Kenyan users to send and receive money locally and globally to and from other users.
#4 Online Payments
Kenyans can use PayPal to make online payments, such as paying bills, subscriptions, and booking flights.
#5 Fundraising
Kenyans can use PayPal to fundraise for a cause or support a charity by creating a donation button on their website or social media pages.
#6 Mobile Payments
PayPal’s mobile app allows Kenyan users to send and receive money, make payments, and manage their accounts from their smartphones or tablets.
#7 Cross-border Transactions
Kenyan businesses can use PayPal to pay for international goods and services, making it easier to do business with global partners.
How to Withdraw or Add Funds from PayPal
PayPal supports withdrawing funds to local bank accounts and mobile wallets like Equity Bank and Mpesa in Kenya. Here’s how to withdraw funds from PayPal to a local bank account or mobile wallet.
#1 PayPal to Equity Bank Account
You can withdraw funds from your PayPal account to your Equity Bank account. The transaction is processed within 24 hours, and the bank rates are very friendly. To do this, you must link the two accounts on the Equity bank mobile App.
#2 Paypal to Mpesa Wallet
The Paypal to Mpesa service by Safaricom and Thunes allows users to move funds between their M-PESA and PayPal accounts easily. You can withdraw funds to your M-PESA or top up your PayPal account. Check out the comprehensive guide on how PayPal-Mpesa works.
FAQs About PayPal in Kenya
Here are some frequently asked questions about PayPal Kenya:
#1 Is PayPal available in Kenya?
Yes, PayPal is available in Kenya. Kenyan users can create a PayPal account and use it for online transactions.
#2 What can I use PayPal for in Kenya?
You can use PayPal to shop online, pay for goods and services, receive payments, and transfer money to other PayPal users. Freelancers can also use PayPal to receive payments from clients worldwide.
#3 Can I link my Kenyan bank account to my PayPal account?
Yes, you can link your Kenyan bank account to your PayPal account. This allows you to withdraw funds from your PayPal account to your bank account.
#4 Can I withdraw funds from PayPal to Mpesa?
Yes, you can withdraw funds from your PayPal account to your Mpesa mobile wallet in Kenya.
#5 What fees are associated with PayPal in Kenya?
PayPal charges fees for some transactions, such as receiving payments, currency conversions, and withdrawals. It’s essential to check the fees beforehand to avoid any surprises.
#6 Is PayPal secure in Kenya?
Yes, PayPal uses advanced security measures to protect users’ personal and financial information. However, keeping your PayPal account secure is essential by using strong passwords and avoiding suspicious emails or links.
#7 Can I use PayPal to make international transactions?
You can use PayPal to make international transactions with merchants or other users worldwide.
Final Thoughts
With PayPal, Kenyans can shop online, pay bills, receive payments, and transfer money to other users. Freelancers can also use PayPal to receive payments from clients worldwide, while businesses can pay for international goods and services.
Moreover, PayPal supports the withdrawal of funds to local Kenyan bank accounts and mobile wallets, making it more accessible to Kenyan users. While some fees may be involved, PayPal offers a reliable and efficient way to manage online payments.
