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How to send money to Kenya

Send money to Kenya using an international money transfer service and you could beat the bank's rates.

Adrienne Fuller
Adrienne Fuller

Updated

Fact checked
Kenya boasts the largest GDP in East and Central Africa, so sending money to Nairobi or Mombasa doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated. Whether making a bank transfer or online transaction, you’ll want to compare the transfer fees and exchange rates of the many options available to you to get the best deal.

Compare money transfer services to Kenya

Use our interactive table to compare transfer fees, exchange rates and other details for sending funds to Kenya with our money transfer partners.

Min. Transfer Amount Transfer Speed Online Transfer Fee Rate Amount Received Description CTA Details
CurrencyTransfer International Money Transfers
 GBP 5,000 1 - 2 days HKD 0.00 13.989 KES
139,892
 可匯款至20+個國家，無手續費。 CurrencyTransfer lets you shop around for the best exchange rate on its online marketplace. Go to site Show details
WorldRemit International Money Transfers
USD 1 Within an hour HKD 20.00 14.145 KES
141,171
 提供現金提取、銀行戶口之間轉賬與及Airtime匯款選擇的網上匯款服務，。 WorldRemit sends money to 110+ countries for bank-to-bank deposits, cash pick-ups or mobile top-ups. Go to site Show details
TransferWise International Money Transfers
USD 10 1 - 2 days HKD 310.00 14.202 KES
137,619
 以透明的匯率，低收費及低最低金額的網上服務作匯款。 TransferWise uses the mid-market rate and transparent fees to help you send money in 45+ currencies. Go to site Show details
Skrill International Money Transfers
 USD 60 1 day HKD 0.00 14.148 KES
141,483
 Skrill能令你輕鬆匯款至多個熱門目的地，可是要留意其加上的手續費。 Skrill offers easy transfers to many popular destinations, but keep an eye out for added fees. Go to site Show details

Compare up to 4 providers

Disclaimer: Exchange rates change often. Confirm the total cost with the provider before transferring money.

Banks vs. money transfer companies

Your major Hong Kong banks may offer the option to send funds to Kenya. But banks typically charge high transfer fees and offer exchange rates that are significantly lower than the mid-market rate — or the rate banks and transfer providers use when trading among themselves.

A reputable money transfer specialist can offer better exchange rates and also charge lower fees, saving you money and putting more Kenyan shillings into your recipient’s pocket. Some providers offer electronic transfers to bank accounts only, while others also provide cash pickups, mobile wallet payments and cash delivery services.

Foreign exchange rates explained

The exchange rate determines how much one country’s currency is worth in another currency. When a country’s currency is strong, it yields more money when exchanging it in a country with a weak currency. Most countries’ exchange rates are flexible, which means they can change from moment to moment. Factors that influence the exchange rate include interest rates, economic stability and inflation.

How to compare transfer companies when sending money to Kenya

  • Exchange rates. Nearly all providers skew exchange rates for a profit. Compare the rate you’re offered to the mid-market rate — the rate banks and transfer services use when they trade among themselves — and look for the smallest margin between them.
  • Transfer fees. Find out whether the provider charges a flat fee or a percentage of your transfer. If you’re sending a large amount, ask whether you qualify for a fee-free transfer.
  • Transfer methods. Common methods for placing transfers include online, through a mobile app, over the phone or at an agent location.
  • “Hedging” options. Ask whether you can schedule payments ahead of time or protect your transfer against market fluctuations with a limit order or forward contract.
  • Transfer speed. If it needs to be there fast, companies like Western Union and MoneyGram allow for quick cash pickups, often in minutes. If you’ve more time, you’ll get better rates and fees with an independent provider.
  • Transfer limits. Your best option might depend on how much you want to send. For large transfers, weigh the best exchange rate — especially since providers encourage large transfers by offering low fees. For smaller amounts, consider the fees you’ll pay on top of the exchange rate.
  • Customer service. Most companies offer customer service by Internet chat, phone, in person or by email. Make sure help will be available if you need it.
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How to send money to Kenya from Hong Kong

  • Bank transfers. Many major banks in Hong Kong will allow you to wire money to banks in Kenya.
  • Money transfer providers. It’s simple and convenient to send an online money transfer to Kenya from the comfort of your home.
  • Money transfer companies with cash pickup options. Companies like Western Union and MoneyGram offer the option of cash pickups from thousands of agent locations across Kenya.
  • M-Pesa. M-Pesa is a safe, secure way to send, receive and store money through your mobile phone or an app. Top up your account at one of more than 287,000 agent locations and then send money to loved ones, who can visit an agent to withdraw their funds.
  • Checks and money orders. Although not a quick option, you could send an international check overseas, obtained from your bank or postal service.
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Steps to send money to Kenya

  1. Register for an account with a provider, supplying your name, address, contact details, proof of ID and information about your selected payment method.
  2. Supply your recipient’s name, contact information and bank account details as required.
  3. Enter the amount of your transfer and complete the transaction.
  4. Keep track of any receipt you receive so you can monitor the progress of your transfer.

Emergency cash transfers in Kenya

You might need to send an emergency cash transfer to Kenya — for example, if a friend traveling through the country loses their wallet. When you need to transfer funds urgently, your fastest possible transfer will often be your most expensive option. Carefully review the exchange rate and transfer fee against your needs so that you understand exactly how much it will cost you.

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Tips for picking up cash in Kenya

Whether picking up funds in Kenya or anywhere else around the world, take a few simple safety precautions to prevent yourself becoming a target for thieves.

  • Call ahead. Learn the company’s business hours and choose a safe time to pick up your cash. Daylight hours are best.
  • Bring a friend. Carrying money when alone can be dangerous. Ask a friend to come along.
  • Deposit your money immediately. The likelihood of losing your money to theft or simple carelessness grows the longer you have it with you. Go straight to a bank and deposit your cash as soon as possible.
  • Keep your cash hidden. Place your money in your purse or wallet before leaving the office. Carrying cash out in the open could make you a target.
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