I still remember the first time I decided to sign up for Netflix. I had heard all the buzz about the shows, the movies, and the original content. But as I browsed through the subscription options, a thought crossed my mind: “How am I going to pay for this?” Not everyone has access to credit cards or international payment options, but in Kenya, there’s an easy and secure way to do it: M-Pesa.
As someone who has always relied on M-Pesa for daily transactions—whether it’s sending money to family or paying for groceries—being able to use it for my Netflix subscription was a game-changer. It felt like a natural next step in the evolution of mobile money. With M-Pesa’s widespread reach and convenience, paying for Netflix couldn’t get any easier.
In this article, I’ll take you through the entire process of paying for Netflix via M-Pesa, step by step, ensuring you can set up your payment method with ease. You’ll learn how to activate M-Pesa Global Pay, choose your Netflix plan, and troubleshoot any issues that might come your way. Plus, I’ll share why M-Pesa is such a great payment option for Netflix in Kenya.
Let’s dive in!
Why M-Pesa is the Perfect Solution for Netflix Payments in Kenya
Before we jump into the steps, let’s talk about why M-Pesa is such a great option for paying for Netflix subscriptions. M-Pesa has become a household name in Kenya, known for revolutionizing the way we handle financial transactions. And when it comes to online payments, it’s no different. Here are a few reasons why paying for Netflix via M-Pesa makes sense:
1. Convenience at Your Fingertips
M-Pesa doesn’t require a credit card, bank account, or any other complicated setup. All you need is your phone and your M-Pesa account. With over 31 million active M-Pesa users in Kenya, the platform has proven itself to be reliable and trusted for various types of payments, including Netflix.
2. Instant Payments
Unlike traditional bank transactions that can take time to process, M-Pesa payments are instant. Once you complete your Netflix payment through M-Pesa Global Pay, the transaction is processed immediately, and your Netflix subscription is activated.
3. Advanced Security
M-Pesa offers top-tier encryption to protect your transactions, giving you peace of mind while making online payments. It’s as secure as using a traditional credit or debit card, but without the need for a physical card.
4. Wide Accessibility
One of the greatest strengths of M-Pesa is its widespread availability. Even people in rural areas, where traditional banking services might be scarce, can easily make payments online. This accessibility makes M-Pesa the ideal payment solution for millions of Kenyans looking to enjoy Netflix.
Step 1: Activate M-Pesa Global Pay
The first thing you need to do is activate M-Pesa Global Pay. This service gives you access to a virtual Visa card linked to your M-Pesa account, which you’ll use to pay for your Netflix subscription.
Here’s how to activate M-Pesa Global Pay:
- *Dial 840# on your Safaricom line.
- Select “Activate M-Pesa Global Pay”.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to set up your virtual Visa card.
- Make a note of your card number, expiry date, and CVV. These details are crucial for the payment process.
Alternatively, you can activate M-Pesa Global Pay using the mySafaricom app for a more seamless experience.
Step 2: Choose Your Netflix Plan
Now that your M-Pesa Global Pay card is activated, it’s time to choose the Netflix plan that suits your needs. Netflix offers several plans to cater to different viewing preferences and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of the current options available for Kenyan subscribers:
| Plan | Price (KES) | Screens | Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile | 200 | 1 | SD |
| Basic | 300 | 1 | SD |
| Standard | 600 | 2 | HD |
| Premium | 900 | 4 | Ultra HD |
- Mobile Plan: This plan is perfect if you primarily watch Netflix on your phone. It offers 1 screen in standard definition (SD) for only KES 200.
- Basic Plan: With 1 screen in SD, the Basic plan costs KES 300 and is ideal for a solo viewing experience.
- Standard Plan: For KES 600, you get 2 screens in high definition (HD)—a great choice for small families or couples.
- Premium Plan: The most expensive option at KES 900, the Premium plan allows you to stream on 4 screens in ultra HD.
Pick a plan that aligns with your viewing habits. You can always switch plans later, so don’t worry about making a permanent decision.
Step 3: Sign Up for Netflix
If you’re new to Netflix, signing up is quick and straightforward. Here’s how to create your account:
- Go to www.netflix.com.
- Click on “Sign Up” and enter your email address.
- Create a secure password.
- Choose your preferred Netflix plan.
When prompted for payment, select the “Credit or Debit Card” option.
Step 4: Enter Your M-Pesa Global Pay Details
Now comes the most important part: entering your M-Pesa Global Pay virtual Visa card details. Instead of entering a traditional credit card, you’ll use the card details from your M-Pesa Global Pay account.
Here’s what to do:
- Enter the 16-digit card number from your M-Pesa Global Pay.
- Input the expiry date and 3-digit CVV code.
- For the name on the card, use your M-Pesa registered name.
Be sure to double-check all the details to avoid payment issues.
Step 5: Confirm Your Payment
Once you’ve entered the card details, follow these final steps:
- Review your plan selection and total cost.
- Click on “Start Membership” to confirm your subscription.
- You’ll receive an M-Pesa confirmation message showing that the payment has been successful.
- Netflix will send a welcome email to confirm that your account is ready.
And just like that, you’re all set! You can now enjoy Netflix streaming in Kenya with M-Pesa.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, you might encounter issues during the payment process. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Insufficient Funds:
Ensure you have enough money in your M-Pesa account to cover the subscription cost. If not, top up your account and try again.
Incorrect Card Details:
Double-check your M-Pesa Global Pay card number, expiry date, and CVV to make sure everything is entered correctly.
Payment Not Going Through:
If the payment isn’t going through, try refreshing the page or contact Safaricom support at 100 for assistance.
Renewing Your Netflix Subscription
The best part? Once you’ve set up your payment method, Netflix will automatically renew your subscription every month. You don’t need to worry about manually renewing your account, and payments will be processed through your M-Pesa Global Pay card each time.
If you ever want to cancel or change your plan, simply log into your Netflix account, go to the “Account” section, and make your adjustments.
Why Kenyans Love Netflix
Netflix has exploded in popularity across Kenya, and it’s no wonder why. The platform offers a wide range of local and international content, catering to all tastes. Here are some reasons why Netflix is so beloved in Kenya:
- Local Content: Netflix is investing heavily in Kenyan shows and movies, giving Kenyans a platform to tell their own stories.
- Affordable Plans: With plans starting at KES 200, Netflix is more accessible than ever before.
- Offline Viewing: You can download shows and movies to watch later, even without an internet connection.
- Multiple Profiles: Share your account with family members, without paying extra.
According to recent statistics, Netflix now has over 500,000 subscribers in Kenya, and this number is growing rapidly!
Why Paying for Netflix via M-Pesa Is a Smart Choice
Paying for Netflix via M-Pesa is a seamless, convenient, and secure way for Kenyans to enjoy the best in entertainment. Whether you’re a first-time subscriber or a seasoned Netflix binge-watcher, M-Pesa’s simplicity makes managing your subscription easier than ever.
Ready to start streaming? Follow the steps we’ve outlined, grab your popcorn, and enjoy everything Netflix has to offer—right at your fingertips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use regular M-Pesa to pay for Netflix? No, you need M-Pesa Global Pay, which gives you a virtual Visa card linked to your M-Pesa account.
- Is it safe to use M-Pesa Global Pay for Netflix payments? Yes, M-Pesa Global Pay uses advanced security measures to protect your payments.
- What if I don’t have enough money in my M-Pesa account? Ensure your M-Pesa account has enough funds before making a payment. You won’t be able to complete the transaction if your balance is insufficient.
- Can I share my Netflix account with others? Yes, depending on your plan, you can share your account with others. The Standard and Premium plans allow multiple screens.
- What happens if I want to cancel my Netflix subscription? You can cancel anytime by going to your Netflix Account settings. Your subscription will remain active until the end of the current billing cycle.
