We found the providers available for Sending Money from the USA to Kenya. If you are looking for ways to send money to Kenya from abroad, we have you covered. The best way to send and receive money in Kenya is through mobile payment method called Mpesa. The transaction is instant.
To send US dollars to a bank account in Kenya shillings in Kenya, Remitly is the provider giving you the most Kenya shillings for your money with zero transfer fees and a good USD-KES exchange rate (their current rate is 1 USD = 115.01 KES).
In comparison, you would pay a total cost of 14.61 USD (which is roughly -3x as much) if you selected to use Xendpay to make the same transaction.
Two other options for your Money Transfer to Kenya could also be good alternatives to Remitly:
- Small World and
- Wise.
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If the recipient of your money transfer doesn’t have a bank account In Kenya? We currently list several money transfer companies able to send Kenya shillings for cash pick-up in Kenya.
The most competitive option currently is Remitly, with zero transfer fees and a good USD-KES conversion rate (current rate: 1 USD = 115.01 KES).
In comparison, you would pay a total cost of 17.5 USD if you were to use MoneyGram to make the same transaction.
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Find The Best Way To Send Money To Kenya From USA
If you’re looking for the best way to send money to Kenya from the United States, use our list to find the cheapest, fastest way to transfer money online.
It can be time consuming researching money transfer companies and comparing the best rate of foreign exchange.
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Our guide shows you which service has transparent fees, mobile apps and different delivery options to make your international money transfers easier.
Here are the Best Money Transfer Services to Send Money From The USA to Kenya:
- OFX: Fee Free
- WISE: Best Exchange Rates
- Xoom: powered by PayPal: Best Big Brand
- Remitly: Sending Money to Family and Friends
- WorldRemit: Sending Cash, Airtime or Mobile Money
1. WorldRemit
WorldRemit specializes in remittances and smaller transfers. They’re perfect for personal money transfers from the US of up to US$10,000 to Kenya.
Their rates are usually better than your local bank’s and they offer more flexible delivery options than companies like:
How much does it cost to Transfer Funds to Kenya through WorldRemit?
Transfer Fee: 0.99 USD.
Exchange Rate: WorldRemit add a margin to the exchange rate. Click here to get an indicative exchange rate to send money from the USA to Kenya.
Maximum transfer amount: US$4,971 depending on bank payout network
How to transfer money with WorldRemit?
- Create an online account and login.
- Tap in how much, how you want to transfer (cash pickup, bank deposit, Mobile Money or Airtime top-up) and where to. Enter your recipients details
- Make local US payment to WorldRemit, using a bank transfer or your debit or credit card.
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How Long Does it Take?
Depends on your delivery choice. For a wire transfer they will get Kenyan shilling in the same day. Cash delivery is ready instantly with valid photo ID and transaction reference number.
Is WorldRemit Safe?
Yes they are. Learn more about how trustworthy WorldRemit are.
Best Features:
- 24/7 customer support
- Easy online platform and cell phone app
- Transparent costs with accurate calculator tool
- Offers cash pick-up, bank deposits, Mobile Money and Airtime top-up
Service Details:
2. Xoom Powered by PayPal
Xoom is convenient for money transfers, but costly compared to other money transfer specialists.
How much does it cost to Transfer Funds to Kenya by Xoom?
Transfer Fee: Differs depending on amount and how you pay them. Paying them by bank transfer is free, but if you pay by card the fee is percentage based.
Exchange Rate: A margin is added to the exchange rate when you convert your US dollars (USD) into Kenyan shilling (KES).
Get a quote: Click here to find out the cost to transfer money to Kenya with Xoom.
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How to transfer money with Xoom to Kenya? How do I start Sending money to Kenya with Xoom?
Xoom makes it quick and easy to start sending money today.
- Step 1: You can log in with your PayPal credentials or easily create a Xoom account, starting with your name and email address.
- 2: Simply enter how much money to send, who it’s going to, and where they’ll receive it in Kenya.
- 3: Conveniently pay with with PayPal, bank account, credit card, or debit card and you’re done! Sign up now to get started
How Long Does it Take To Transfer Money to Kenya by Xoom?
It will take 1-2 business days. Transfers submitted by 11 am EST on a bank business day will be delivered by 5 pm EST the next business day.
Choose cash pickup and your money is typically available in minutes at convenient locations throughout Kenya.
Transfers to M-Pesa mobile wallets are typically completed in minutes. Select bank deposit and your money will typically arrive in minutes to Equity Bank accounts.
Is Xoom (PayPal) Safe?
Yes they are. They are powered by PayPal, which is one of the oldest online payment platforms trusted for secure online money transfers.
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Best Features:
- Regular status updates via text or email
- Pay recipients bills or phone reloads via app
- Safe, trustworthy, fully licensed and authorized company
Service Details:
Send to cash pickup locations, M-Pesa, and bank accounts in Kenya
Send money to the top cash pickup locations and banks throughout Kenya, such as Kenya Commercial Bank, Kenya Post Office Savings Bank, and SBM Bank. Transfer money directly to M-Pesa mobile wallets. Make bank deposits to Equity Bank.
How to send From Xoom to M-Pesa Mobile Wallets in Kenya
- Step 1: Simply enter the amount.
- 2: Choose Mobile Wallet as the receiving option.
- 3: Provide your recipient’s M-Pesa mobile number.
- 4: Conveniently pay with a Paypal account, bank account, credit card, or debit card.
The power of PayPal at the speed of Xoom
Xoom is a PayPal service. We’re part of something bigger, something that empowers over 250 million customers around the world to make secure online transactions every day.
That’s a strength in numbers you can trust. And the best part is, if you have an account with PayPal you can start sending money to Kenya right now with your PayPal payment options right at your fingertips.
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How to Send Money for Cash pickup to Kenya
- Step 1: Simply enter an amount.
- 2: Provide your recipient’s name, address, and phone number.
- 3: Select a convenient location for easy cash pickup, including Kenya Commercial Bank, Kenya Post Office Savings Bank and SBM Bank.
- 4: Easily pay with Paypal, bank account, credit card, or debit card. View all cash pickup locations
How to Send Bank Deposits To Kenya
- Step 1: Just tell us how much to deposit.
- 2: Send to any Equity Bank account.
- 3: Enter your recipient’s account information on our secure page.
- 4: Conveniently pay with Paypal, bank account, credit card, or debit card. View all banks
3. Remitly
Money can be sent within minutes with Remitly’s Express option using credit and debit cards. Remitly Pakistan have no minimum limit so it can be handy when sending small amounts to family or friends overseas.
What we like about Remitly Kenya is they are cheaper than Xoom/PayPal or Western Union for money transfers within minutes. It’s also easy to make payments on the Remitly website or mobile app.
How much does it cost to Transfer Funds to Kenya?
Transfer Fee: $0 for Express
Exchange Rate: The exchange rate you receive depends on the amount of your transfer and which country your money is being sent.
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How to pay with my debit or credit card with Remitly Australia?
- Log into the Remitly website
- When you’re ready for payment, just type your name, card number, expiry date and card verification details
- Bank transfers or SWIFT payments are also available to send money from the US
How long does it take?
Within minutes for international money transfers.
Is Remitly safe?
Yes they are. They are fully licensed and authorized. Click here to see full review of Remitly.
Best features:
- The person can receive their money transfer by bank deposit, cash pick up, mobile money or home delivery.
- Money back guarantee – if your money doesn’t arrive on time.
- Same-day cancellation requests are possible.
- Easy to sign up and quick to transfer money on mobiles or laptops.
4. OFX
OFX is one of the oldest money transfer companies and have a good track record for security. Recently, OFX stopped charging a flat transfer fee to customers in the USA.
They are a good option for online users who still want strong customer service over the phone.
How much does it cost to Transfer Funds to Kenya?
Transfer Fee: OFX no longer charge a flat transfer fee for customers in the USA.
Exchange Rate: OFX add a margin to the exchange rate when you convert your US dollars into Kenyan shilling.
Minimum Transfer Amount: US$150 for single transfer; US$250 for recurring transfers.
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OFX has a currency exchange calculator, but it shows the interbank rate. This is the rate BEFORE they apply their margin.
To get an accurate quote, you need to set up an account with OFX. Alternatively, use exchange rate comparison engine. You’ll see OFX’s actual exchange rates and fees and comparison with other services.
How to transfer money with OFX?
- Create a free online account and login to get a live quote for your transfer.
- Enter your recipients details including bank account, financial institution number, account number and branch transit number.
- ‘Finalize transaction’ and pay using a bank or wire transfer. Business customers can use direct debit.
How long does it take?
Your recipient will get the money in Kenyan shilling into their account in 1 business day.
Is OFX safe?
Yes they are. See full review of OFX for more information.
Best features:
- Easy online set-up
- Good exchange rates and lock-in rate for larger amounts
- 24/7 phone support
- Cell phone app
Service details:
5. Wise (Previously Known as TransferWise)
If you prefer to transfer money online, Wise is the easiest way to do it. It’s incredibly simple to set up an account or make a transfer using their app.
They also have the best exchange rates, because they offer the same market rate you see on XE or Google and don’t add any hidden exchange rate mark ups.
How Much Does it cost to Transfer Funds to Kenya through WISE?
Transfer Fee: 3.4 USD + 0.86% of your amount.
Exchange Rate: Wise gives you the best possible rate (google rate). They do not use a margin.
Additional Fees: Bank debit (ACH) is the cheapest; then bank wire transfer; followed by debit card and credit card.
How to Transfer Money with Wise?
- Create an online account and login.
- Tap in how much and where to. Enter your recipients details.
- Make local US payment to Wise, using a bank transfer, SWIFT, or your debit or credit card.
How long does it take?
Your recipient will get the money in Kenyan shilling from Wise’s local account within 0-1 business days.
Is Wise safe?
Yes they are. See full review of Wise.
Best features:
- Quick online set-up
- Simple cell phone app
- Very fast transfers to a bank account
- Transparent fees and offer the best rates online
Service details
Best Ways To Send Money To Kenya From Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is one of the Middle East countries with a significant number of Kenyan immigrants. Kenyans have been relocating to this nation in search of better living standards for themselves and their loved ones back home.
Kenyans in Saudi Arabia need reliable and affordable ways to send money to their friends, business partners, and family members in Kenya.
I will highlight some of the best ways to send money to Kenya from Saudi Arabia.
6. Western Union – How To Send Money To Kenya from Abroad
If you are in Saudi Arabia and wish to send funds to a recipient in Kenya, you are probably interested in knowing, does Western Union work in Saudi Arabia?
Well, the answer is a resounding YES. There are three ways that you can use to send money from Saudi Arabia to Kenya via Western Union.
To begin with, you can visit one of the agents in the country and present the cash, applicable fees, and the recipient’s details.
Alternatively, you can choose to download the Western Union app on Google Play or App Store. It is also possible to head on to their website and click on ‘Send Now’.
When sending money to Kenya from Saudi Arabia at one of the agent locations, you can present the funds in the form of cash. However, when sending online, you will need a Mada card.
On the other end of the transaction, the recipient in Kenya can access the funds on his/her bank account or visit a nearby cash pickup location.
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With the agent option, the receiver has to know the tracking number, the sender’s location, and the sent amount.
For a bank transfer, the funds will arrive within 1-2 working days. As for the cash pickup option, the recipient will get the cash within minutes.
As for discounts, sign up for My WU to get rewards. In addition, Western Union has competitive exchange rates and reasonable fees. The fees depend on the amount you intend to send as well as the selected receiving method.
For instance, the screenshot below shows the applicable fees and the resultant amount to be received when sending SAR 1,000 to be received at an agent in Kenya.
7. Skrill – How To Send Money To Kenya from Abroad
If you are looking for a cheap way to send money from Saudi Arabia to Kenya, Skrill is one of the available options. It offers competitive exchange rates. Besides, it does not charge the sender or the recipient for the transfer.
To complete the money transfer process, head on to its website and click on ‘Register’. Alternatively, you can download the Skrill app on Google Play/App Store and sign up.
You can either pay for the transaction via your credit or debit card. You have the option of either sending the amount to the receiver’s M-Pesa account or their bank account.
If you send the money to a M-Pesa account or bank account, the amount will reach instantly and within 2 days respectively. If you do not have the recipient’s bank account details, it is possible to send money to their email address.
They will be able to use the money to pay bills or can transfer it to their bank account for retrieval.
8. Moneygram
You can send money from Saudi Arabia to Kenya via MoneyGram by either visiting an agent near you or doing so online. For the agent option, you will need to present the cash to be sent, the applicable fees, your ID, and the receiver’s details.
Alternatively, you can send the funds online. To do so, head on to MoneyGram’s website and click on ‘Sign Up’. It is also possible to download the MoneyGram app on Google Play or App Store and sign up from there. The available payment methods are a bank transfer, debit card, and credit card.
9. Transfas– How To Send Money To Kenya from Abroad
Transfast is another convenient way to send money to Kenya from Saudi Arabia. To make the transaction, you will need to visit a Tranfast agent near you. All Tahweel Al Rajhi and Enjaz branches offer the service.
Next, present your government-issued ID, the amount, and the recipient’s details.
You can also transfer the funds by downloading the Transfast app on App Store or Google Play. Subsequently, sign in, have your account verified, and start the transfer process.
Alternatively, you can sign up and transfer the funds online via its website. The available payment methods are a debit or credit card.
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On the other end of the transaction, you can choose on whether the recipient in Kenya will access the funds via his/her bank account, mobile wallet, or at a cash pickup location.
For the latter two options, the cash will arrive within minutes. As for the bank account receiving method, the transfer speed is usually 1 working day.
As for the fees, this money transfer platform has competitive rates and relatively low rates. The resultant charges depend on the chosen receiving method and the amount to be sent.
You will be able to see the applicable fees and the conversion rate during the transfer process.
Questions and Answers: How To Send Money To Kenya
What’s the cheapest way to send money to Kenya?
How do I send money to Kenya via Mpesa?
- When in TZ simply dial *150*00# and then “Send money to MPESA Kenya” on your Vodacom line.
- When in Rwanda; dial *830# to send money to Kenya from your MTN line.
- When in Uganda; dial *165# to send money to Kenya from your MTN line.
Can someone send money from UK to Kenya via Mpesa?
Can I use TransferWise in Kenya?
Can PayPal send money to Mpesa?
Does Alipay work in Kenya?
Which is the best way to send money from UK to Kenya?
How do I send money to Kenya from Worldremit to mpesa?
- Select M-PESA menu, then select Activate.
- Enter the M-PESA PIN received via SMS.
- Create your own secret PIN (4-digit number) and confirm it.
- Enter ID number – same one used during registration.
- On successful activation, you’ll receive a confirmation message with your balance.
How much does it cost to transfer money from PayPal to Mpesa?
- For Paypal to Mpesa we charge 6.5% + 2USD.
- For Mpesa to paypal we place a small mark-up on the exchange rates.
- You will also get a calculator on the same on the respective service pages.
- Bank Transfer. Bank transfers are usually the cheapest option when it comes to funding your international money transfer with Wise.
- Debit Card. Paying for your transfer with a debit card is easy and fast.
- Credit Card.
- PISP.
- Swift.
Which is cheaper Western Union or MoneyGram?
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