PayPal is a global giant when it comes to online payments. Just like how MPESA is a household name for local transactions in Kenya, PayPal is the go-to option when dealing with international merchants. Whether you’re paying for a Netflix subscription, shopping on eBay or running an online business, having a PayPal account is a must.
But here’s the twist—you can’t link your regular KCB bank account directly to PayPal. If you’re a KCB customer in Kenya wondering how to use PayPal, there’s a simple workaround: use a KCB Prepaid Card.
Let’s break it down step by step.
Can You Link KCB to PayPal Directly?
No, you can’t link your regular KCB bank account to PayPal. This is a common misconception among Kenyans.
In Kenya, only Equity Bank has an official integration with PayPal that allows users to withdraw funds directly from their PayPal account to their bank account. KCB does not support this feature for standard accounts.
However, you can link a KCB Prepaid Card, like the MeCash card, to your PayPal account and use it for international payments.
Why Use a KCB Prepaid Card for PayPal?
A prepaid card gives you the freedom to:
Pay for global services (Netflix, Spotify, Amazon, etc.)
Shop online with security
Control your spending (you only use what you load)
Avoid linking your main bank account directly
What You Need to Know Before Linking
Here are a few things to keep in mind before linking your prepaid card to PayPal:
You must apply for a KCB Prepaid Card at a KCB branch.
Linking requires a small balance (PayPal charges about $1 or Ksh.100 to confirm the card).
You can’t withdraw PayPal funds to this card; it’s for payments only.
Don’t fall for scams—never use random routing numbers or unknown banks like “Academy Bank NA.” Many have lost money this way.
If you’re looking to withdraw PayPal funds, consider Equity Bank or MPESA as safer alternatives.
How to Apply for a KCB Prepaid (MeCash) Card
Here’s how to get your KCB MeCash card:
Visit your nearest KCB branch.
Ask for a KCB MeCash Prepaid Card.3. Fill in the application form (takes a few minutes).
Pay the Ksh. 500 issuance fee.
You’ll get your card immediately or within a short time.
The card has a 16-digit number—this is your “account number” when loading funds.
How to Load Money to Your KCB Prepaid Card via MPESA
Follow these easy steps to fund your card:
Go to your MPESA Menu.
Tap “Lipa na MPESA” and select “Pay Bill”.
Enter 522522.
Under Account Number, enter your 16-digit MeCash card number.
Enter the amount you want to load and press OK.
You’ll get a confirmation SMS from MPESA and KCB.
Now you’re done!
How to Link Your KCB Prepaid Card to PayPal
Once your card is funded, follow these steps:
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Log in to your PayPal account.
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Go to “Account Settings” > “Money, Banks and Cards.”
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Tap on “Link a new card.”
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Enter your KCB MeCash card details.
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Click “Link Card.”
PayPal will charge a small amount (around $1) to verify the card.
Confirm the Card with KCB’s Help
To complete the verification process:
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Call KCB Card Center (contact details are in the booklet provided with the card).
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Request the 4-digit PayPal confirmation code from them.
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Go back to your PayPal account and enter the code.
Once confirmed, your card is fully linked, and you can now start making global payments with ease!
What About Other Banks?
Equity Bank
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Fully integrated with PayPal.
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Allows withdrawals and deposits.
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Best option if you need to receive money from PayPal.
Co-op Bank
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You can link PayPal for payments and refunds.
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Not suitable for receiving funds directly into your bank account.
MPESA Integration
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Another reliable option for withdrawing PayPal funds.
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Fast processing—funds can reflect in as little as a few minutes.
Final Thoughts
While KCB doesn’t support direct PayPal withdrawals, using a KCB Prepaid Card is a secure and practical way to make payments to international merchants. It’s perfect for online subscriptions, shopping, or even business expenses.
Just follow the steps above, and you’ll be paying like a pro in no time!