PayPal is a global online payment system that allows users to make and receive payments securely and easily over the internet.
It is an essential tool for anyone looking to conduct online transactions, whether you are an online merchant or an individual buyer.
However, for individuals living in Kenya, setting up a PayPal account can be a daunting task.
This article aims to provide a step-by-step guide on how to create a PayPal account in Kenya, including the requirements and necessary documentation needed for the process.
With this guide, you can set up your PayPal account with ease and start enjoying the benefits of online transactions.
How does PayPal work?
PayPal is an online payment system that allows individuals and businesses to send and receive money securely over the internet. It was founded in December 1998 and is headquartered in San Jose, California.
To use PayPal, a person needs to create an account on the PayPal website or app, providing basic personal and financial information.
Once the account is set up, the user can link their PayPal account to their bank account, credit card, or debit card.
When a user wants to make a payment or send money to another user, they can do so by logging into their PayPal account, selecting the recipient, and entering the amount they want to send.
PayPal will then transfer the funds from the user’s linked account to the recipient’s linked account.
One of the advantages of using PayPal is that it provides an additional layer of security for online transactions.
Instead of providing sensitive financial information like credit card numbers or bank account details to multiple online merchants, a user can simply use their PayPal account to make payments.
This can help protect against identity theft and fraud.
PayPal also offers other features such as the ability to receive payments for goods and services, create and send invoices, and purchase goods and services from online merchants that accept PayPal payments.
PayPal charges a fee for certain transactions, but it depends on the type of transaction and the country the user is in.
Type of PayPal accounts
PayPal offers several types of accounts, each with its own set of features and benefits.
1. Personal Account
This is a basic account for individuals who want to shop online, send and receive money from friends and family, or sell occasionally on eBay.
With a Personal Account, you can send and receive money in over 200 markets around the world, and you can link your PayPal account to your credit card or bank account for easy payment transactions.
2. Business Account
This account is designed for businesses and organizations of all sizes.
With a Business Account, you can accept payments from customers, send invoices, and manage your business finances all in one place.
You can also integrate your PayPal account with your e-commerce website, use PayPal Here to accept payments in person, and get access to additional tools and features for managing your business.
How to create a PayPal account in Kenya
- Visit PayPal.com on computer.
- Choose account type (Personal or Business)
- Enter your personal information
- Activate the account via Email
- Link your debit card or credit card
- Use PayPal to send and receive the money within Kenya or anywhere around the world.
How to link PayPal to M-PESA
To link PayPal to M-PESA, you’ll need to follow these steps;
- Visit PayPal’s M-Pesa page; https://www.paypal-mobilemoney.com/m-pesa.
- Log into PayPal using your PayPal username and password
- Agree to PayPal’s terms and conditions for the service.
- Add the M-PESA number you want to link with PayPal
- PayPal will send an SMS verification code to your M-PESA number
- Key in the verification code PayPal sent you on your M-PESA account and complete the linking process.
- You have completed the process of linking PayPal to M-PESA.
How to withdraw money from PayPal to M-PESA?
To withdraw from PayPal to M-PESA, you’ll need to follow these steps;
- Go to https://www.paypal-mobilemoney.com/m-pesa
- Log in with your PayPal user details.
- Select Withdraw from PayPal
- The next screen will show you the available PayPal balance in your account.
- Enter the amount you would like to withdraw and click. Continue to Withdraw.
- They will send the money to your M-Pesa account in a few minutes.
FAQ
What is PayPal?
PayPal is a payment platform that allows individuals and businesses to send and receive money online. It is widely used around the world for both personal and commercial transactions.
Can Kenyans create a PayPal account?
Yes, Kenyans can create a PayPal account. However, there are some limitations on the services available to Kenyan PayPal users.
What do I need to create a PayPal account in Kenya?
To create a PayPal account in Kenya, you will need a valid email address, a Kenyan national ID or passport, and a debit or credit card that is accepted by PayPal.
How do I create a PayPal account in Kenya?
To create a PayPal account in Kenya, go to the PayPal website, click on “Sign Up”, and select “Kenya” as your country.
Fill in the required personal and contact information, including your email address and national ID or passport number. Then link your debit or credit card to your PayPal account.
What are the fees for using PayPal in Kenya?
PayPal charges fees for certain transactions, such as receiving payments from buyers outside Kenya or converting currency.
The fees vary depending on the type of transaction and the amount of money involved. You can check the PayPal website for a complete list of fees.
Can I use PayPal for business purposes in Kenya?
Yes, you can use PayPal for business purposes in Kenya. However, you will need to upgrade your account to a business account and provide additional information about your business.
Are there any limitations on PayPal services in Kenya?
Yes, there are some limitations on PayPal services in Kenya.
For example, Kenyan PayPal users cannot send money to other PayPal users in Kenya, and they cannot use PayPal to withdraw funds to their bank accounts in Kenya.
However, Kenyan PayPal users can still receive payments from buyers outside Kenya and use their PayPal balances to make purchases online.
Conclusion
Creating a PayPal account in Kenya is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few simple steps.
It is an essential tool for individuals who want to transact online and receive payments from international clients.
By following the guidelines outlined in this article, Kenyans can create a PayPal account, link it to their bank accounts, and start transacting online seamlessly.
However, it is crucial to note that PayPal charges a fee for certain transactions, and users must take this into account when using the platform.
