1. M-Pesa GlobalPay (The Virtual Card Trick)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- On the App: Open the M-Pesa App – Tap the “Pay” button – Select “GlobalPay.”
OR
- On the Phone: Dial the USSD Code: *840# – Accept the terms and conditions.
- Receive Details: Safaricom will instantly generate a 16-digit card number, an expiry date, and a CVV code via SMS. This is your virtual card.
- Link the Card to Netflix
- Go to com/YourAccount on your browser (you cannot do this on the app).
- Navigate to “Membership & Billing” – “Update Payment Method.”
- Select the “Credit or Debit Card”
- Input the 16-digit number, expiry date, and CVV you received in the SMS.
- Click “Start Membership” or “Update.”
The result: Your Netflix bill will automatically be charged directly from your M-Pesa balance every month.
PesaSmart Pro Tip: M-Pesa GlobalPay is a virtual card, so you only load it with the amount you need. This makes it safer than linking your main bank debit card, protecting you from unauthorized large charges
2. The Alternative Method: Linking Via PayPal
If you already use PayPal for online work or international transfers, this method offers a good secondary option.
Why it Works: Netflix accepts PayPal payments, and PayPal can be linked directly to your M-Pesa wallet.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Link Your M-Pesa to PayPal
- Create a PayPal Account: Ensure the name on your PayPal account matches the name on your M-Pesa registration.
- Link Wallets: Use the official PayPal mobile money service to connect your PayPal account to your M-Pesa registered phone number.
- Fund Your PayPal: Deposit the required subscription amount into your PayPal account using the Pay Bill Number 800088 (Account Number is your phone number).
Set Up Payment on Netflix
- Go to com/YourAccount.
- Select “Update Payment Method.”
- Choose “PayPal” as your payment option.
- Netflix will redirect you to the PayPal login page to confirm the recurring payment.
- Confirm: Once confirmed, the monthly subscription will be deducted from your PayPal balance (which you have pre-funded from M-Pesa).
What is the Cheapest Way to Stream? Netflix Plans
After sorting out the payment, you need to choose the best value plan for your family. Netflix has localized its pricing to be much more affordable for the East African market.
| Plan | Best For | Price (Approx. KES) | Quality | Simultaneous Screens |
| Mobile | Solo viewing on a phone/tablet. | Ksh 200 / Month | Standard Definition (SD) | 1 Screen |
| Basic | Solo viewing on a TV or laptop. | Ksh 300 / Month | HD Ready (720p) | 1 Screen |
| Standard | Couples/Families with a Smart TV. | Ksh 700 / Month | Full HD (1080p) | 2 Screens |
| Premium | Large families/Friends sharing. | Ksh 1,100 / Month | Ultra HD (4K) | 4 Screens |
PesaSmart Note: The previous Free Mobile Plan was discontinued by Netflix in 2023. All users must now choose one of the paid subscription options.
The Final Verdict
If you want a set-it-and-forget-it solution that is simple and secure, M-Pesa GlobalPay is the winner. It uses your core mobile money wallet without needing a third-party account.
Don’t let a missing card stop your viewing pleasure. Follow the steps above, and enjoy the show!
