If you are trying to learn how to link PayPal with Mpesa in Kenya, the steps are simple and only take a few minutes. Many people link both accounts so they can receive payments online, pay for services, or move money between PayPal and Mpesa without delays.
The setup works on both phone and laptop, and you only need an active Mpesa number and a verified PayPal account. Once the link is complete, you can withdraw and top up instantly through the PayPal Mobile Money service.
Quick Glance
- Use the official PayPal Mobile Money (Mpesa) website
- Log in with your PayPal account details
- Enter your Mpesa number and verify the SMS code
- Approve the link request sent to your phone
- Start withdrawing and depositing instantly
These steps work on all devices, and the process remains the same whether you are on your phone or laptop. The key part is making sure your details match on both sides.
What You Need Before Linking PayPal With Mpesa
You only need a few simple things to complete the setup. Since the system checks your identity automatically, make sure everything matches before you begin.
Here is what you must have:
- A verified PayPal account with the correct name
- An active Mpesa number registered under your ID
- Internet access on your phone or laptop
- Access to the phone number that will receive the SMS code
- Matching names on PayPal and Mpesa (very important)
Once these are in place, the link takes only a few minutes to complete. Most users in Kenya finish the entire process without any issues.
How to Link PayPal With Mpesa in Kenya (Fastest Method)
Step 1 — Visit the PayPal Mobile Money Website
Open your browser and go to the official PayPal Mobile Money service. This is where all linking, withdrawals, and top-ups happen. Many people search for how to link PayPal with Mpesa online, and this is the correct platform.
Step 2 — Log In to Your PayPal Kenya Account
Enter your PayPal email and password. This confirms the connection request and prepares your account for Mpesa registration. This step also applies if you are looking for how to link my PayPal account with Mpesa.
Step 3 — Enter Your Mpesa Mobile Number
Type your Mpesa number in the required field. Make sure it is the same number registered under your ID. This helps avoid linking issues and failed verification attempts.
Step 4 — Confirm the SMS Code
You will receive a verification code from Mpesa. Enter the code on the website to complete this step. Many users ask how to link PayPal with Mpesa app, and this process works the same way, even if you are using your phone’s browser.
Step 5 — Approve the Connection
Once the details match, the system automatically links both accounts. You can now withdraw from PayPal to Mpesa or top up your PayPal balance whenever needed. The link remains active unless you choose to remove it later.
Are There Fees for Linking PayPal and Mpesa?
There are no charges for linking your PayPal and Mpesa accounts. However, normal withdrawal and top-up fees apply when you start transferring money. These fees depend on exchange rates and the PayPal Mpesa service provider.
How Long Does the PayPal to Mpesa Link Take?
The linking process is instant once your details match. If everything is correct, you can start withdrawing immediately. Transfers usually take a short time, depending on the amount.
Common Issues When Linking PayPal With Mpesa
Sometimes the link may fail due to small details that do not match. These issues are common and can be fixed quickly once you know what is causing them.
Common problems include:
- PayPal name does not match the Mpesa registration name
- The Mpesa number entered is not registered under your ID
- PayPal account is not fully verified with email or phone
- Browser caching issues on older devices
- Temporary Thunes or PayPal Mpesa link error
- Trying to use a different phone number from the one on PayPal
Most errors disappear once your details match and verification is complete. If the problem continues, logging out and repeating the process usually helps.
FAQs
Can I receive money on PayPal without linking Mpesa?
Yes, but you cannot withdraw to Mpesa until you link both accounts.
Do I need the Mpesa app to link PayPal?
No. The process works through the PayPal Mobile Money website.
How to link PayPal with Mpesa with more than one number?
You cannot link Mpesa and PayPal with multiple numbers. Only one Mpesa number can be linked at a time.
Can I unlink PayPal from Mpesa later?
Yes. You can remove the connection any time by visiting the PayPal Mobile Money website and selecting the unlink option.
If you ever need the full picture beyond linking, the main PayPal Mpesa guide on Smart Africa Guide walks through every step from setup to withdrawals and fees.
Tarun Asrani is the founder and editor-in-chief of SmartAfricaGuide. With extensive experience in digital publishing and content strategy, he leads the platform’s focus on finance, scholarships, e-learning, and career opportunities shaping Africa today. Tarun visits Africa twice a year, gaining first-hand exposure to local education systems, job markets, and emerging technologies. He also closely follows African news, university updates, and government initiatives to ensure SmartAfricaGuide delivers timely, accurate, and practical insights grounded in real regional experience.
