Kenya is the global pioneer of mobile money and M-Pesa, operated by Safaricom, is the country’s most widely used platform for everyday payments, transfers and financial services. For foreigners visiting or relocating, getting set up on M-Pesa early will save time, reduce risk and help you pay like a local across taxis, supermarkets, utilities and even cross-border transfers. This guide compiles verified details from Safaricom and regulatory sources so you can get started confidently.
Why M-Pesa Matters and Where You’ll Use It
M-Pesa enables you to send and receive money, pay merchants through Lipa na M-Pesa, withdraw cash at agents or ATMs, buy airtime and data and access value-added services through USSD and the M-Pesa App. It is deeply integrated into Kenya’s economy and widely accepted by millions of customers and businesses, making it the default payment method.
What is USSD? – USSD is a way for your phone to talk to your service provider’s computer using simple text menus.
Eligibility and Registration for Foreigners
To use M-Pesa, you need a Safaricom SIM card and a valid passport. You must visit a Safaricom retail shop, not just an agent, because foreign passports require processing at official Safaricom outlets under Kenya’s KYC rules. Registration is free and after completing the process, you will receive a PIN by SMS and activate M-Pesa via the SIM Toolkit or the M-Pesa App. It is essential to ensure that the name on your SIM matches the name on your passport exactly to avoid future issues.
Using M-Pesa: USSD, SIM Toolkit and the App
You can access M-Pesa services by dialing *334#, which provides a consolidated menu for sending money, paying bills, accessing loans and savings and using M-Pesa Global. The M-Pesa App offers additional features, including biometric login, offline access, spend analytics and mini-apps for travel and utilities. You can also view mini statements via the SIM Toolkit or request full statements through the app or USSD.
Tariffs, Limits and Free Services
As of 2025, the maximum per transaction is KES 250,000, the daily transaction limit is KES 500,000 and the maximum account balance is KES 500,000. Sending money to registered users is free for amounts up to KES 100; thereafter, tiered fees apply, with the highest being KES 108 for transfers between KES 20,001 and 250,000. Withdrawals at agents incur fees ranging from KES 29 for small amounts to KES 309 for large withdrawals, while ATM withdrawals cost between KES 35 and 203. Deposits, registration, airtime purchases and balance inquiries are free.
Paying Businesses with Lipa na M-Pesa
Lipa na M-Pesa offers two options: Buy Goods/Till and PayBill. Buy Goods/Till is ideal for retail transactions and usually does not charge the customer, while PayBill is used for structured payments such as utilities and school fees and may involve a customer fee.
Withdrawing Cash and Handling Funds
You can withdraw cash from M-Pesa agents by presenting your phone number and ID and confirming the transaction with your PIN. ATMs also support M-Pesa withdrawals, and the same fee structure applies.
International Transfers and M-Pesa Global
M-Pesa Global lets you send and receive money internationally and shop online with the GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card. You can opt in via *334# or the app and access partners such as Western Union and MoneyGram. Western Union enables direct transfers to M-Pesa wallets, and PayPal integration is now available inside the M-Pesa App, replacing the old web portal.
Practical Setup for Foreigners
To get started, buy a Safaricom SIM and register at a Safaricom Shop with your passport. Activate M-Pesa via the SIM Toolkit or app, fund your wallet through cash deposits or international transfers, and use USSD or the app to send money, pay bills, and withdraw cash when needed.
Safety and Scam Awareness
Always keep your SIM secure, set a strong PIN and enable biometric login in the app. Use Hakikisha prompts to confirm recipient details before sending money, and monitor your transactions through statements.
Conclusion
For visitors and expats, M-Pesa offers unmatched convenience and security in Kenya’s cashless economy. By registering with your passport, learning the USSD menu and app features and understanding tariffs and limits, you can navigate payments like a local. With M-Pesa Global, Western Union, and PayPal integration, sending and receiving money in and out of Kenya is simple and secure, keeping your funds protected.
Written by Tatjana Singh, Branch & Immigration Manager, Kenya
