How to Pay for Apps Without a Card in Kenya

Discover how to pay for apps without a card in Kenya using M-PESA, mobile wallets, and other easy methods. A complete guide for Android and iPhone users.

Summary

Paying for apps in Kenya doesn’t require a credit or debit card anymore. Thanks to mobile money platforms like M-PESA, Airtel Money, and alternative payment services like PayPal and Google Play gift cards, Kenyan users can conveniently access premium apps and subscriptions without the need for traditional banking.

Introduction

If you’re in Kenya and want to download a premium app or subscribe to a streaming service like Netflix or Spotify, you might think you need a Visa or MasterCard. But what if you don’t have a bank card? You’re not alone. Millions of Kenyans face this hurdle daily — especially students, young professionals, or unbanked individuals.

Fortunately, Kenya’s mobile money ecosystem has revolutionized digital payments. In this guide, we’ll explore how to pay for apps without a card in Kenya, using locally available, secure, and user-friendly options.

Why You May Want to Avoid Card Payments

Before diving into the alternatives, here are a few reasons many people in Kenya seek card-free payment options:

• Lack of access to banking services

• High card fees or maintenance charges

• Concerns over online fraud and data security

• Preference for mobile-first solutions like M-PESA

1. Using M-PESA to Pay for Google Play Apps

What Is M-PESA?

M-PESA is Kenya’s most widely used mobile money platform, allowing users to send and receive money, pay bills, and even shop online. Safaricom, Kenya’s largest telecom provider, integrated M-PESA directly into Google Play, allowing Android users to purchase apps and subscriptions seamlessly.

How to Set Up M-PESA on Google Play

1. Open Google Play Store on your Android device.

2. Go to Payment methods under your account.

3. Tap on “Add Safaricom M-PESA” as your payment method.

4. Follow the prompts to verify your phone number.

5. Once verified, M-PESA will now appear as a payment option.

What Can You Buy?

• Paid apps and games

• In-app purchases

• Subscriptions like YouTube Premium or Google One

Benefits

✅ No need for a bank
✅ Secure, verified by Safaricom
✅ Fast and automatic

2. Using Airtel Money on Google Play

For Airtel subscribers, Google Play also supports Airtel Money. The process is similar:

1. Go to Google Play > Payments & Subscriptions > Payment methods

2. Choose Airtel Money

3. Follow the verification steps

Note: Availability may vary depending on your region or device compatibility.

3. Using Google Play Gift Cards

Google Play Gift Cards are another convenient option.

Where to Buy Gift Cards in Kenya

• Online resellers (e.g., GiftPesa, Dignoti, MyGiftCardSupply)

• Retail stores partnered with card vendors

• E-commerce platforms like Jumia or Kilimall

How to Redeem

1. Open Google Play Store

2. Tap Menu > Redeem

3. Enter the gift card code

4. The value is added to your account balance

Best Use Cases

• Parents buying for kids

• Gifting apps or games

• Avoiding M-PESA transaction limits

4. PayPal with Virtual Cards or Gift Cards

If you have a PayPal account but no local card, you can still buy apps indirectly.

Steps:

1. Buy a Google Play gift card from a vendor that accepts PayPal.

2. Redeem it on your account.

3. Use it for app purchases as needed.

This is especially handy for freelancers who get paid via PayPal but don’t want to withdraw funds to a Kenyan bank.

5. Using Telkom T-Kash (Emerging Option)

Though not as popular as M-PESA, Telkom’s T-Kash is growing. Currently, it supports online payments via T-Kash Paybill or Merchant codes, and Google is exploring partnerships for direct app store payments.

If you’re a Telkom user, keep an eye on your app store settings for future T-Kash integration.

6. iPhone Users: Paying on Apple App Store Without a Card

Unlike Android, Apple doesn’t officially support M-PESA yet. But here are workarounds:

Option 1: Apple Gift Cards

• Buy a US or UK Apple Gift Card online

• Redeem via your iPhone’s App Store

• Change your Apple ID region to match the card

Option 2: Family Sharing with Someone Who Has a Card

• Join a Family Sharing group

• Use the group organizer’s card

• Reimburse via M-PESA or cash

7. Using Local App Marketplaces (Huawei AppGallery, PalmStore)

If you’re using a Huawei or Transsion phone (like Tecno, Infinix), you might be using AppGallery or PalmStore.

These platforms often offer:

• M-PESA integration

• Promo credits

• Pay-per-download or wallet top-up options

Always ensure the app is legitimate to avoid malware.

8. Paybill and Till Numbers for App Developers

Some Kenyan developers allow users to pay for premium app access via Paybill or Till Numbers and then activate features manually.

For example:

• Send Ksh 100 to a Paybill

• Receive an activation code via SMS or email

• Enter the code in the app

Useful for local apps like:

• Educational platforms

• Betting apps

• Niche tools made by Kenyan developers

Pros and Cons of Paying Without a Card

Warranty and Customer Support for Mobile Payments

Most mobile money platforms offer:

• Reversal options (e.g., M-PESA’s Hakikisha confirmation)

• Customer care hotlines

• In-app support on Play Store

Tip: Always double-check the recipient or Paybill number before confirming.

User Experiences and Reviews

What Users Say:

• “Buying apps with M-PESA is a game-changer. I no longer need to borrow my cousin’s debit card.” — Peter, Nairobi

• “I use gift cards when I need to control how much I spend. No surprises!” — Linda, Kisumu

• “Wish Apple had direct M-PESA support, but using PayPal gift cards works for now.” — Brian, Eldoret

Community Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Easy setup

• Widely available options

• Works on budget phones

Cons:

• Some fake gift card sellers online

• iOS still lags in local integration

Final Verdict

If you’ve been wondering how to pay for apps without a card in Kenya, rest assured — there are multiple reliable and convenient options. Whether you prefer M-PESA, Airtel Money, or gift cards, you can enjoy all your favorite apps and services without needing a traditional credit or debit card.

This card-free approach is especially ideal for:

• Students

• Unbanked users

• Parents managing kids’ devices

• Anyone seeking more secure and local payment options

FAQs on How to Pay for Apps Without a Card in Kenya

Q: Can I pay for Netflix in Kenya without a card?
A: Yes, using M-PESA via third-party services like Dignoti or Safaricom’s Paybill for Netflix resellers.

Q: Is M-PESA safe for app payments?
A: Yes. M-PESA is highly secure, and you confirm all payments via your PIN.

Q: Are Google Play gift cards available in Kenya?
A: Yes, through online resellers or digital gift card platforms.

Q: Can I use PayPal without linking a bank card?
A: You can use PayPal to buy gift cards, but you’ll need a verified account.

Q: What about iPhone users without a card?
A: Use Apple gift cards or join a Family Sharing plan with someone who has a card.

Related: How to Get the M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card

Final Thoughts on How to Pay for Apps Without a Card in Kenya

In Kenya, not having a debit or credit card doesn’t mean missing out on premium apps or services. Thanks to innovative mobile money solutions and global gift card services, you can easily pay for apps without a card.

So whether you’re streaming, gaming, or learning, you’ve got flexible, safe, and local ways to get what you need — no card required.