How to Pay for Netflix With M-Pesa in Kenya (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)
Adekiya Joscor · 30 October 2026
M-Pesa is how most Kenyans pay for almost everything, so it is natural to want to pay for Netflix the same way. Netflix does not use a traditional Paybill number in Kenya, but you can still pay with your M-Pesa money in a few minutes.
This guide shows you exactly how to pay for Netflix with M-Pesa in Kenya, step by step, along with current Netflix prices in shillings and fixes for the most common payment problems.
Key takeaways
- Netflix Kenya prices are KES 200 (Mobile), KES 300 (Basic), KES 700 (Standard) and KES 1,100 (Premium) per month.
- Netflix does not use a Paybill number. The main M-Pesa route is the M-Pesa GlobalPay virtual Visa card.
- You can activate GlobalPay by dialling *840# or through the M-Pesa app, then use the card details on Netflix.
- PayPal funded through M-Pesa is another option, but involves more steps and fees.
- Keep enough balance on renewal day, or Netflix will put your account on hold.
Netflix prices in Kenya (2026)
According to Netflix's Kenya help centre:
| Plan | Price per month | Quality | Screens |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile | KES 200 | 480p, phone/tablet only | 1 |
| Basic | KES 300 | 720p | 1 |
| Standard | KES 700 | 1080p | 2 |
| Premium | KES 1,100 | 4K + HDR | 4 |
The free mobile plan Netflix once offered in Kenya ended on November 1, 2023.
Option 1: Pay with the M-Pesa GlobalPay virtual Visa card
M-Pesa GlobalPay gives you a virtual Visa card linked to your M-Pesa wallet. Netflix sees it as a normal Visa card, while the money comes from your M-Pesa balance.
Step 1: Activate GlobalPay
- USSD: Dial *840#, follow the prompts and accept the terms.
- M-Pesa app: Open the app, go to Pay, then select GlobalPay.
You will receive a virtual Visa card number, expiry date and CVV.
Step 2: Subscribe on Netflix
- Go to netflix.com in your browser.
- Enter your email and create a password.
- Choose your plan.
- Select Credit or Debit Card.
- Enter your GlobalPay card number, expiry date and CVV.
- Confirm. Netflix charges your M-Pesa wallet through the virtual card.
Step 3: Keep your wallet funded
Netflix renews automatically each month. Make sure your M-Pesa balance covers the plan price on your billing date. Check the GlobalPay terms for any transaction or conversion charges.
Option 2: PayPal funded by M-Pesa
- Create a PayPal account with the same name as your M-Pesa registration.
- Link your PayPal account to M-Pesa and top up via the M-Pesa PayPal service.
- On Netflix, choose PayPal as the payment method, if offered, and log in.
This works, but involves extra setup and fees, so most people find GlobalPay simpler.
Option 3: Bank card
Kenyan Visa and Mastercard debit or credit cards work on Netflix if they are enabled for online and recurring payments. Many banks let you top up your card from M-Pesa, which is another indirect way to use M-Pesa money.
Option 4: Trusted marketplaces
If you would rather not manage cards at all, the DiscountZAR streaming marketplace lists streaming subscriptions from verified sellers. Always read the listing details carefully.
Comparison of payment methods
| Method | Uses M-Pesa money | Setup | Auto-renewal | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M-Pesa GlobalPay | Yes, directly | Quick (*840#) | Yes | Check GlobalPay terms |
| PayPal via M-Pesa | Yes, via top-up | Longer | Yes | PayPal and conversion fees |
| Bank card | Indirectly | Depends on bank | Yes | Bank fees |
| Marketplace | Depends on seller | Quick | Depends on listing | Included in price |
Why your Netflix payment failed (and fixes)
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Insufficient M-Pesa balance | Top up before your billing date |
| GlobalPay card not activated | Complete activation via *840# or the M-Pesa app |
| Wrong card details | Re-enter number, expiry and CVV carefully |
| Card limit reached | Check GlobalPay or bank limits |
| Too many failed attempts | Wait a few hours and try again |
If a renewal fails, update your payment method under Account → Manage payment info on netflix.com.
Tips to save on Netflix in Kenya
- Start with Mobile (KES 200) if you watch mostly on your phone.
- Choose Standard (KES 700) for a couple sharing an HD TV, instead of two separate plans.
- Download on Wi-Fi to avoid burning Safaricom bundles.
- Cancel during busy months and rejoin later. Netflix keeps your profiles for a while.
- Avoid "lifetime" Netflix offers on social media; they are usually stolen accounts.
Safety tips when paying with M-Pesa
- Never share your M-Pesa PIN with anyone, including people claiming to be from Netflix or Safaricom.
- Always type netflix.com yourself instead of clicking links in SMS or WhatsApp messages.
- Check your M-Pesa statements for unexpected charges.
- Netflix will never ask you to send money to a phone number or till number.
How much does Netflix cost per year in Kenya?
| Plan | Monthly | Yearly |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile | KES 200 | KES 2,400 |
| Basic | KES 300 | KES 3,600 |
| Standard | KES 700 | KES 8,400 |
| Premium | KES 1,100 | KES 13,200 |
Netflix does not offer an annual discount in Kenya, so these are twelve monthly payments.
Which Netflix plan is right for you?
- Mobile (KES 200): students and commuters watching on a phone.
- Basic (KES 300): one person who wants to watch on a TV or laptop.
- Standard (KES 700): couples or small households with an HD smart TV.
- Premium (KES 1,100): larger households with a 4K TV and fast internet.
Saving data while streaming in Kenya
- In the Netflix app, choose Mobile data usage → Save data or Wi-Fi only.
- Set your profile's data usage per screen to Low or Auto.
- Turn on Downloads for You to automatically download shows on Wi-Fi.
- Watch downloads offline during your matatu commute.
Streaming in HD can use 1 to 3 GB an hour, so downloading on home Wi-Fi can save a lot on Safaricom or Airtel bundles.
Frequently asked questions
Can I pay for Netflix with M-Pesa directly?
Netflix does not use a Paybill. You pay with M-Pesa money through the M-Pesa GlobalPay virtual Visa card, or via PayPal funded by M-Pesa.
How much is Netflix in Kenya?
KES 200 for Mobile, KES 300 for Basic, KES 700 for Standard and KES 1,100 for Premium per month.
Is there a free Netflix plan in Kenya?
No. The free mobile plan ended on November 1, 2023.
Can I use Airtel Money?
Netflix accepts cards. If your mobile money provider offers a virtual Visa or Mastercard, you may be able to use it on Netflix. Check with your provider.
Does Netflix renew automatically with GlobalPay?
Yes. Netflix charges your virtual card every month, so keep your M-Pesa balance topped up.
Can I cancel Netflix anytime?
Yes. Go to Account → Cancel membership. You keep access until the end of your paid period, and you can rejoin later.
What if my GlobalPay card expires?
Generate or update the card details in the M-Pesa app, then update your payment information on netflix.com under Manage payment info.
Can two people in different homes share my Netflix?
Netflix plans are for one household. Sharing with someone outside your home may require Netflix's extra member option where it is offered.
Summary
The easiest way to pay for Netflix with M-Pesa in Kenya is the M-Pesa GlobalPay virtual Visa card: activate it with *840#, add the card on netflix.com, and keep your wallet funded. Plans start at KES 200 a month for Mobile.
Paying for music too? Read our guide to Spotify Premium prices in Kenya, and browse the DiscountZAR streaming marketplace.