AirTM in Kenya: The Complete Guide to Using the Global Digital Wallet
Introduction
Kenya is internationally recognized as a leader in mobile money and digital finance, thanks to M-Pesa and a growing community of tech-savvy users. However, many Kenyans still face barriers when trying to:
- Receive international freelance payments.
- Send money abroad at low cost.
- Protect their money from inflation and currency fluctuations.
- Access global platforms like PayPal, Skrill, or crypto exchanges.
Thatβs where AirTM comes in. AirTM is a global digital wallet and peer-to-peer exchange that allows users in Kenya to hold money in digital dollars (AirUSD), connect with international payment systems, and use local cash-in and cash-out options such as M-Pesa and bank transfers.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about AirTM in Kenya, including how it works, why itβs useful, step-by-step setup, fees, security, comparisons with other services, and tips for freelancers and entrepreneurs.
What is AirTM?
AirTM is a digital wallet and peer-to-peer (P2P) platform based in Mexico but used worldwide, especially in regions with limited access to global financial services.
With AirTM, you can:
- Store money in AirUSD, a stable digital dollar.
- Deposit and withdraw funds using local payment methods (like M-Pesa in Kenya).
- Exchange between fiat money, cryptocurrencies, and e-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Uphold, Neteller, etc.).
- Send and receive money across borders instantly.
In other words, AirTM acts as a financial bridge between Kenyaβs strong mobile money ecosystem and the rest of the global economy.
Why Kenyans Use AirTM
- Protecting against inflation and currency volatility
The Kenyan Shilling (KES) can fluctuate against the US Dollar. By holding AirUSD, Kenyans can protect their savings in a stable digital dollar.
- Freelance and remote work payments
Kenyan freelancers working with international clients can easily get paid in AirTM, avoiding PayPalβs restrictions or high fees.
- Remittances
Families in Kenya can receive money from abroad faster and often cheaper than through traditional remittance companies like Western Union.
- Access to global platforms
AirTM connects Kenyans with e-wallets and payment methods not commonly supported in Kenya, such as Skrill or Uphold.
- Crypto-friendly
AirTM allows Kenyans to move between fiat and crypto smoothly, making it easier to participate in the global digital economy.
How to Open an AirTM Account in Kenya
Step 1: Sign Up
- Go to AirTM.com
- Register with your email and create a password.
- Confirm your email address.
Step 2: Verify Your Identity (KYC)
AirTM requires Know Your Customer (KYC) verification to keep transactions safe.
- Upload a government-issued ID (National ID, Passport, or Driving License).
- Take a selfie for verification.
- Provide basic personal information.
Verification usually takes a few minutes to 24 hours.
Step 3: Fund Your Account
In Kenya, you can fund your account through:
- M-Pesa transfers (via P2P marketplace).
- Bank transfers.
- Cryptocurrency deposits (Bitcoin, USDT, Ethereum, etc.).
Step 4: Start Using AirTM
- Convert your funds to AirUSD for stability.
- Send money abroad instantly.
- Withdraw to M-Pesa or your Kenyan bank when needed.
Deposits and Withdrawals in Kenya
Deposits
To deposit Kenyan Shillings (KES):
- Log in to AirTM.
- Select Deposit.
- Choose M-Pesa or Bank Transfer.
- AirTM will match you with a peer exchanger (cajero).
- Transfer money to the peer, and once confirmed, your balance will appear in AirUSD.
Withdrawals
To withdraw AirUSD into M-Pesa:
- Select Withdraw.
- Choose M-Pesa.
- Enter the amount you want to withdraw.
- AirTM will assign a peer who will send you the funds via M-Pesa.
AirTM Fees in Kenya
| Transaction Type |
Typical Fee |
Notes |
| Account creation |
Free |
No setup cost |
| Deposits |
~1% |
Peer-to-peer fee varies |
| Withdrawals |
~1% |
Peer-to-peer fee varies |
| Crypto transfers |
Blockchain fees apply |
Depends on network |
| Sending AirUSD to another AirTM user |
Free |
Instant & no cost |
π‘ Tip: Always check the final rate before confirming a transaction, as peer exchange rates may vary depending on demand.
AirTM vs Other Options in Kenya
| Feature |
AirTM

|
M-Pesa |
PayPal |
Binance

|
Western Union |
| Local payments |
β
M-Pesa, bank |
β
|
Limited |
β
via P2P |
β
|
| Global reach |
β
Wide |
β Local only |
β
Limited in Kenya |
β
Crypto-based |
β
|
| Stable currency (USD) |
β
AirUSD |
β |
β |
β
(USDT, BUSD) |
β
|
| Fees |
~1% |
Low local |
High |
0.1β0.75% |
High |
| Crypto access |
β
|
β |
β |
β
|
β |
π Conclusion: M-Pesa is unbeatable for local daily payments, but AirTM is better for global transactions, freelance work, and storing stable money.
AirTM for Freelancers in Kenya
Freelancers in Nairobi, Mombasa, and beyond often face issues with PayPal limitations and delayed bank transfers. With AirTM, they can:
- Receive payments from clients worldwide.
- Hold earnings in AirUSD to avoid inflation.
- Convert easily to KES via M-Pesa when needed.
- Send funds to PayPal or Skrill if required by clients.
Security: Is AirTM Safe in Kenya?
Yes, AirTM is generally safe. It uses:
- Escrow protection β money is held until both sides confirm.
- KYC verification β ensures real identities.
- Peer ratings β you can see a peerβs reputation before transacting.
- Encryption β protects your personal data.
β οΈ However, since AirTM is peer-to-peer, always:
- Check the peerβs reputation.
- Avoid large single transactions with unverified peers.
- Confirm payments within the platform.
Regulatory and Tax Aspects in Kenya
- Legal status: AirTM itself is not regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya, but using it is not illegal.
- Crypto and digital wallets: Kenya has a large unregulated crypto market. Users should comply with general tax laws.
- Taxes: Freelancers and entrepreneurs must report earnings in AirTM as income when filing taxes in Kenya.
Tips for Using AirTM in Kenya
- Use AirUSD for stability β donβt keep large amounts in volatile KES.
- Check peer reviews β only transact with high-rated exchangers.
- Avoid peak times β fees may rise when demand is high.
- Leverage crypto β if you already use Binance or Coinbase, you can move USDT or BTC into AirTM for liquidity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use AirTM with M-Pesa in Kenya?
Yes, M-Pesa is one of the most common deposit and withdrawal methods on AirTM in Kenya.
2. How long do AirTM transactions take in Kenya?
Most deposits and withdrawals via M-Pesa take 5β30 minutes.
3. Is AirTM better than PayPal in Kenya?
For receiving international freelance payments, AirTM is often cheaper and more flexible than PayPal.
4. Do I need a bank account to use AirTM?
No. You can use AirTM entirely with M-Pesa if you donβt have a bank account.
5. Can I buy crypto with AirTM in Kenya?
Yes. You can exchange AirUSD for Bitcoin, Ethereum, or stablecoins like USDT directly in AirTM.
Conclusion
AirTM is one of the most powerful financial tools for Kenyans who need access to global money. Whether you are a freelancer, entrepreneur, or someone receiving remittances, AirTM allows you to:
- Store funds safely in digital dollars.
- Connect with M-Pesa and Kenyan banks for easy local access.
- Send and receive money across borders without excessive fees.
- Access cryptocurrencies and global payment platforms.
In a country where M-Pesa dominates local finance, AirTM provides the missing link to the global digital economy. For Kenyans looking for stability, speed, and flexibility, AirTM is a smart choice.