PayPal has long been a lifeline for Kenyan online writers, freelancers, and small business owners who rely on fast, secure international money transfers. But recent changes—especially PayPal’s move to cut ties with academic writing services—have left many searching for reliable alternatives.
Luckily, Kenya has several global and local platforms that allow you to send and receive funds quickly, safely, and conveniently.
From borderless accounts to prepaid cards and mobile money transfers, these PayPal alternatives in Kenya provide flexible solutions to keep your online business or freelance work running smoothly.
Top PayPal Alternatives In Kenya
With PayPal restrictions looming, exploring other options is crucial. Below is a detailed look at the best PayPal alternatives in Kenya, highlighting their features, speed, and accessibility.
Payoneer
Payoneer is a trusted financial company offering global money transfers and digital payment solutions. Its services include:
- Bank transfers: Receive funds directly into your Kenyan bank account.
- Prepaid MasterCard: Spend your funds globally at ATMs or online.
- Payoneer e-wallet: Hold funds online and send them internationally.
Transfer speed: 2–5 working days for global bank transfers.
Why it works for Kenyans: Payoneer is widely used by freelance writers, e-commerce sellers, and remote workers due to its reliability and multi-currency support.
TransferWise (Now Wise)
Founded in 2010, TransferWise focuses on cheap and transparent international money transfers. Its key features include:
- Borderless account: Hold over 40 currencies at once.
- Debit Mastercard: Spend funds anywhere in the world at real exchange rates.
- Low fees: Save on transfer costs compared to traditional banks.
TransferWise is ideal for Kenyans working with clients abroad, as it provides flexibility to convert and spend money in multiple currencies without hidden charges.
Skrill
Skrill, formerly Moneybookers, allows secure online payments and international transfers. Key highlights:
- Easy payments: Send and receive money using only an email address and password.
- Bank linking: Connect local bank accounts for faster withdrawals.
- Low-cost transfers: Particularly suitable for cross-border freelance payments.
Skrill is simple, fast, and especially useful for freelancers who need a PayPal-like service but without the restrictions on academic-related transactions.
WorldRemit
WorldRemit provides global remittance services to over 145 countries. Key features include:
- Flexible transfer options: Bank deposits, cash pickups, mobile money, or airtime top-ups.
- Mobile-friendly: Send money directly from your phone.
- Reliable: Trusted for quick delivery of international remittances.
For Kenyan users, WorldRemit is a convenient choice for receiving payments from overseas clients, with multiple payout options for flexibility.
MoneyGram
MoneyGram operates in 200 countries, offering innovative money transfer and payment services. Its advantages include:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Global reach | 200+ countries |
| Transfer methods | Bank, cash, mobile money |
| Business services | Supports individuals and companies |
MoneyGram is excellent for both personal and business payments, especially if you need a traditional money transfer option with a wide global network.
Western Union
Western Union is a household name for worldwide money transfers. Highlights for Kenyan users:
- Multiple services: Person-to-person transfers, money orders, business payments.
- Secure transfers: Money sent to Kenya includes a test question for verification.
- Transfer limit: Up to $10,000 per transaction from Kenya.
Western Union works best for those who prefer in-person cash pickups or need a reliable way to send larger sums internationally.
Choosing The Right PayPal Alternative In Kenya
When selecting a PayPal alternative, consider:
- Transfer speed: How quickly you need the money.
- Fees: Check for hidden or high transaction costs.
- Payment options: Bank account, mobile money, prepaid card, or e-wallet.
- Currency flexibility: Ability to receive and spend multiple currencies.
Each of these platforms has unique strengths. Freelancers may prefer Payoneer or TransferWise for smooth bank transfers and global cards. Mobile-focused users may find WorldRemit or Western Union more convenient.
