Key takeaways
- M-Pesa Global lets you send money from your phone to many countries and to PayPal.
- Remittance apps such as Wise, WorldRemit, Remitly and Sendwave often beat banks on fees and exchange rates.
- Freelancers commonly receive money via PayPal, Payoneer or bank transfer, then withdraw to M-Pesa or a bank.
- Always compare the total cost: transfer fee plus the exchange rate margin.
In this guide
Whether you are paying an overseas supplier, getting paid by a foreign client, or receiving money from family abroad, you have more options than ever. Here is how to send and receive money globally while in Kenya, and how to choose the cheapest and safest option.
1. M-Pesa Global
Available on the M-Pesa menu and the M-PESA app, M-Pesa Global lets you send money to mobile wallets and bank accounts in many countries, and receive money from abroad straight to your phone. It is ideal for quick personal transfers.
2. PayPal linked to M-Pesa
You can top up PayPal from M-Pesa to pay for things online, and withdraw PayPal balances to M-Pesa. Many freelancers and online sellers use this route.
3. Payoneer
Popular with freelancers and marketplace sellers (Upwork, Fiverr, Amazon). Payoneer gives you receiving account details in major currencies, and you withdraw to a Kenyan bank account.
4. Remittance apps
Apps such as Wise, WorldRemit, Remitly, Sendwave and Western Union let family and clients abroad send money that lands on your M-Pesa or bank account, often within minutes and with better rates than traditional banks.
5. Bank transfers (SWIFT)
Best for large business payments, imports and school fees abroad. Fees and exchange margins can be higher, but limits are larger and documentation is clear. Ask your bank about a dollar or euro account if you trade internationally.
6. Virtual dollar cards
Several Kenyan banks and fintechs offer virtual cards for paying online in foreign currency, useful for Google and Meta ads, software subscriptions and hosting.
How to choose the best option
- Compare total cost: fee plus the exchange rate margin. A “zero fee” transfer with a poor rate can cost more.
- Speed: mobile wallets are usually fastest; SWIFT can take days.
- Limits: check daily and monthly limits on M-Pesa and apps.
- Safety: use licensed providers only and never share your PIN or OTP.
- Records: keep receipts for KRA if the money is business income.
For businesses: accept international payments on your website
If you sell to customers abroad, such as tourists, diaspora buyers or global clients, your website can accept cards, PayPal and M-Pesa on one checkout. See how M-Pesa website integration works.
Selling to customers outside Kenya?
Fees, limits and supported countries change often. Check each provider’s latest terms before you transfer.
Ways to move money in and out of Kenya
| Method | Send | Receive | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| M-Pesa Global | Yes | Yes | Quick personal transfers from your phone |
| PayPal (via M-Pesa) | Yes | Yes | Online purchases and freelance clients |
| Payoneer | Limited | Yes | Freelancers and marketplace sellers |
| Wise / WorldRemit / Remitly / Sendwave | Varies | Yes | Diaspora remittances with good rates |
| Bank SWIFT transfer | Yes | Yes | Large business payments and imports |
| Western Union / MoneyGram | Yes | Yes | Cash pick-up where apps are not available |
| Virtual dollar cards | Yes (online payments) | No | Paying for ads, software and subscriptions |
Fees, limits and supported countries change often. Check each provider's current terms before sending.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to send money abroad from Kenya?
It depends on the country and amount. Compare M-Pesa Global, remittance apps and your bank on the total cost, including the exchange rate, not just the fee.
How do Kenyan freelancers get paid by foreign clients?
Most use PayPal, Payoneer, Wise or direct bank transfer, then withdraw to M-Pesa or a local bank account.
Can my business website accept payments from abroad?
Yes. A website can accept card payments, PayPal and M-Pesa together, so local and international customers can pay.
Do I pay tax on money received from abroad?
Business or freelance income is taxable in Kenya and should be declared to KRA. Gifts from family are treated differently; ask a tax advisor about your case.
A Nairobi IT company helping Kenyan businesses grow with websites, software, marketing, networking and security. Our guides are written from real client projects.
