How to Withdraw Money from an ATM in Kenya
Mar 10, 2025
How to Withdraw Money from an ATM in Kenya: A Complete Guide (2025)
Have you ever stood in front of an ATM in Kenya, card in hand, suddenly unsure about what to do next? Or perhaps you're planning a trip to Kenya and wondering how the ATM system works here?
You're not alone. Despite ATMs being a common sight across Kenya's urban landscapes, many people—both locals and visitors—sometimes find themselves confused by the various options, fees, and security measures.
In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk you through everything you need to know about withdrawing money from ATMs in Kenya, from the basic steps to insider tips that will save you time and money.
ATM Availability in Kenya: Where to Find Them
Kenya has an extensive ATM network, particularly in urban areas:
Major Banks: Equity, KCB, Co-operative Bank, NCBA, Absa, and Standard Chartered maintain large ATM networks
Shopping Malls: Nearly all malls have multiple ATMs in their banking halls or near entrances
Supermarkets: Major chains like Naivas, Carrefour, and Quickmart often have ATMs
Petrol Stations: Many fuel stations along major highways have ATMs
24-Hour Locations: Several ATMs operate around the clock, especially in Nairobi, Mombasa, and other major cities
Urban vs. Rural Access: While urban centers have abundant ATMs, rural areas have fewer options. Plan accordingly if traveling to remote locations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Withdrawing Cash
Before You Start: Compatibility Check
Card Types Accepted: Most Kenyan ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, and local debit cards
Card Readiness: Ensure your card is activated for international use if you're a visitor
PIN Requirements: You'll need your 4-digit PIN; some international cards with 6-digit PINs may face compatibility issues
The Withdrawal Process
Insert Your Card
Look for the card slot (usually marked with a flashing light)
Insert your card with the chip facing up and in
Some newer ATMs may require you to insert and remove your card quickly (dip method)
Select Your Language
Most Kenyan ATMs offer English and Kiswahili options
Touch the screen or press the button beside your preferred language
Enter Your PIN
Use the keypad to input your 4-digit PIN
Cover the keypad with your other hand for security
Press "Enter" or "OK" to confirm
Choose "Withdrawal" Option
Select "Cash Withdrawal" or "Withdraw Money" from the menu
Some ATMs may ask you to select account type (Savings, Current/Checking, or Credit Card)
Enter the Amount
Input your desired withdrawal amount in Kenyan Shillings (KES)
Most ATMs dispense in denominations of 1,000 KES notes
Common withdrawal limits range from 40,000-50,000 KES per transaction
Confirm the Transaction
Review the amount and any applicable fees shown on screen
Press "Yes" or "Confirm" to proceed
Select "No" or "Cancel" if you want to change anything
Collect Your Cash and Card
Wait for the machine to dispense your money (usually from a slot below the screen)
Don't forget to take your card when prompted
Many ATMs in Kenya now dispense the card first, then the cash, as a security measure
Get Your Receipt (Optional)
Choose whether you want a printed receipt
Store it safely if you opt for one—it contains partial card information
Understanding ATM Fees and Charges
Within Your Own Bank Network
Same Bank ATMs: Most banks offer free withdrawals if you use their own ATMs
Withdrawal Limits: Typically 40,000-50,000 KES per transaction, with daily limits of 100,000-150,000 KES
Transaction Limits: Some banks limit the number of free withdrawals per month
Using Other Banks' ATMs
Domestic Interbank Fees: Expect to pay 30-100 KES when using another bank's ATM
Fee Disclosure: The ATM should display any fees before you complete the transaction
Statement Notation: These fees usually appear separately on your statement
For International Cards (Tourists and Visitors)
Foreign Exchange Markup: Typically 2-3% on the exchange rate
Withdrawal Fees: Foreign cards may incur fees of 300-500 KES per transaction
Home Bank Charges: Your home bank might add additional international ATM fees
Dynamic Currency Conversion: Avoid the option to be charged in your home currency—it usually comes with poor exchange rates
Best Practices to Minimize Fees
Withdraw Larger Amounts Less Frequently: Reduce the number of transactions to save on per-transaction fees
Use Your Bank's ATMs: Stick to your own bank's network when possible
Ask About Partner Banks: Some international banks have local partners with reduced fees
Check Fee Waivers: Certain premium accounts offer free international withdrawals
ATM Security: Staying Safe
Kenya has generally safe ATM facilities, but taking precautions is always wise:
Location Intelligence
Choose Well-Lit Areas: Use ATMs in well-illuminated, busy locations
Bank Lobbies: ATMs inside bank lobbies are typically safer than street-facing ones
Mall ATMs: Shopping centers usually have security personnel near ATM areas
Avoid Late-Night Withdrawals: If possible, conduct ATM transactions during daylight hours
During the Transaction
Check for Skimmers: Inspect the card slot for any unusual attachments
Cover the Keypad: Always shield your PIN entry with your hand
Beware of "Helpers": Decline assistance from strangers around ATMs
Privacy Space: Maintain distance from others in the queue
After Withdrawing
Put Away Cash Immediately: Don't stand counting money at the ATM
Check Your Surroundings: Be aware of who's around you as you leave
Monitor Your Statements: Regularly check your account for unauthorized transactions
Troubleshooting Common ATM Issues in Kenya
Card Not Accepted
Activation Issue: Ensure your card is activated for use in Kenya
Demagnetized Card: If the magnetic strip is damaged, request a chip-based replacement
Regional Restrictions: Some cards have geographical usage restrictions
Machine Out of Cash
Weekend/Holiday Effect: ATMs often run out of cash during weekends and holidays
Alternative Location: Use ATM locator apps to find nearby options
Inside Banking Halls: ATMs inside bank branches are restocked more frequently
Transaction Failed But Money Deducted
If your account is debited but you receive no cash:
Take a Photo: Capture the ATM location, ID number, and error message if possible
Immediate Reporting: Call your bank's customer service immediately
Reference Number: Note any reference or transaction numbers from the receipt
Resolution Timeline: Most banks resolve these issues within 7-14 working days
PIN Issues
Forgotten PIN: Visit your bank branch with identification to reset
Multiple Wrong Attempts: Your card may be temporarily blocked after 3-4 incorrect PIN entries
PIN Change: Most Kenyan bank ATMs allow PIN changes through the "Other Services" menu
Alternative Cash Access Methods in Kenya
Mobile Money Options
M-Pesa: Send money to your M-Pesa from your bank account and withdraw at an agent
Agent Banking: Many banks have agents who can process withdrawals with your card or ID
Cardless Withdrawals: Some banks allow you to initiate withdrawals via mobile banking app
Digital Payment Alternatives
As Kenya moves toward a cashless economy, consider:
Mobile Money Payments: Many merchants accept M-Pesa, Airtel Money, or T-Kash
Card Payments: POS terminals are widely available in urban establishments
QR Payments: Increasingly popular for retail and restaurant payments
Special Considerations for Different User Groups
For Tourists and Foreign Visitors
Notify Your Bank: Inform your home bank about travel plans to prevent fraud blocks
Currency Needs: ATMs dispense only Kenyan Shillings (KES)
Airport ATMs: Available at JKIA and major airports, but often have higher fees
Backup Options: Carry some cash and multiple cards as contingencies
For Expats and Long-term Residents
Local Bank Account: Consider opening a Kenyan bank account for regular access
Fee Structures: Compare different banks' ATM networks and fee policies
Premium Accounts: Some banks offer accounts with higher withdrawal limits and more free transactions
For Kenyans Using Local Cards
Bank Selection: Consider ATM network size when choosing a bank
App Integration: Most Kenyan banks offer apps that show ATM locations and allow cardless withdrawals
Fee Waivers: Ask about accounts that offer free withdrawals at other banks' ATMs
Digital Banking and the Future of Cash in Kenya
Kenya is at the forefront of digital banking in Africa, with continuous innovation:
Cardless ATMs: Some banks now allow withdrawals via QR codes or mobile app authorization
Biometric Authentication: Fingerprint and facial recognition are beginning to replace PINs at select ATMs
Integrated Services: Newer ATMs offer bill payments, money transfers, and account management
IntaSend: A Digital Alternative to ATM Withdrawals
As you navigate Kenya's ATM landscape, it's worth considering digital payment alternatives. IntaSend, Kenya's growing payment platform, offers solutions that might reduce your need for cash withdrawals:
Merchant Payments: Pay directly to businesses through the platform
Peer-to-Peer Transfers: Send money to friends and family instantly
Cross-Border Capabilities: Recently expanded to Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria, and other African countries
Business Disbursements: For companies making multiple payments
While ATMs remain essential, digital payment platforms are increasingly becoming the preferred choice for many Kenyans looking to reduce cash handling.
Conclusion: Mastering ATM Use in Kenya
Whether you're a local resident, an expat, or a tourist, knowing how to efficiently and safely use ATMs in Kenya is an essential skill. The country's banking infrastructure continues to evolve, with a good mix of traditional cash services and cutting-edge digital options.
By following the guidelines in this article, you can minimize fees, enhance security, and streamline your cash withdrawal experience throughout Kenya.
Looking for ways to reduce your dependence on cash withdrawals? Explore digital payment solutions like IntaSend that make financial transactions safer and more convenient.