If you want to make money online in Zimbabwe, one of the first questions is: How do I get paid?
PayPal is one of the most trusted and convenient ways to receive payments online. In this guide, I will show you how to open a PayPal account in Zimbabwe, how it works, and how to link it to your local bank.
How PayPal Works
PayPal is a secure online payment system that allows individuals and businesses to send and receive money using an email address.
With PayPal you can:
- Pay online without entering your card details every time
- Link multiple cards and choose which one to use
- Keep your financial information private and secure
- Receive online payments safely
PayPal uses strong encryption and fraud protection, making it one of the safest payment platforms in the world.
How to Sign Up for a PayPal Account in Zimbabwe
Creating an account is simple. Follow these steps:
STEP 1: Choose Your Account Type
Go to the PayPal website and select “For You” to open a personal account.
(A personal account is ideal when starting out. You can always upgrade to a business account later.)
STEP 2: Create Your Login Details
Enter your:
- Email address
- Secure password
- National ID or passport number
- Full name exactly as it appears on your ID or passport
Use correct information to avoid verification problems later.
Already have a business account?
If you already have a PayPal business account, you must use a different email, card, and bank account to open a personal account.
Or simply upgrade your personal account to a business account.
STEP 3: Add Personal Information
Provide your:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Residential address
- Mobile number
Make sure these match your ID.
Accept PayPal’s terms and conditions to continue.
STEP 4: Link Your Bank Card
Add your debit or credit card to your PayPal wallet.
This step allows you to:
- Make payments instantly
- Shop online securely
- Protect your financial information from fraud
You can link multiple cards if needed.
STEP 5: Verify Your Email
PayPal will send you a confirmation message.
Click “Confirm Email Address” to activate your account.
This email verification is important because PayPal sends alerts for every transaction.
STEP 6: Verify Your Mobile Number (Optional)
For extra security, you can verify your phone number.
This helps protect your account from unauthorized access.
Benefits of Opening a PayPal Account in Zimbabwe
✔ Safe and Secure Payments
PayPal offers 24/7 fraud monitoring and encrypted transactions.
✔ Buyer Protection
If something goes wrong with a purchase, PayPal can help you get a refund.
✔ Used Worldwide
PayPal works in over 200 countries, including Zimbabwe.
You can shop globally and pay in different currencies.
✔ Easy to Send and Receive Money
Use it to:
- Receive payments for online work
- Shop online
- Send money to friends and family
- Pay for services
✔ Free Account Setup
It is free to open a personal PayPal account.
How to Link Your Zimbabwean Bank to PayPal
To use PayPal successfully in Zimbabwe, you need a USD-denominated card from a local bank.
Here are the two most popular options:
1. Link With FBC Bank (MasterCard)
FBC Bank offers a MasterCard Prepaid Card which works well with PayPal.
Requirements to open an FBC prepaid card:
- National ID or passport
- Proof of residence
- Passport-size photo
- USD $20 initial deposit
FBC also offers virtual accounts and online banking for 24/7 access.
To register online, visit FBC Holdings and follow their online banking registration guide.
2. Link With Bank ABC (VISA Card)
Bank ABC offers VISA cards that are PayPal-compatible.
Their accounts operate in USD and include full online banking services.
Other Payment Methods You Can Use in Zimbabwe
Besides PayPal, Zimbabweans can also receive or send money using:
- Western Union
- WorldRemit
- Paynow – for local online payments (EcoCash, Telecash, Visa, MasterCard)
Final Thoughts
I hope you found this guide on how to open a PayPal account in Zimbabwe helpful.
PayPal is one of the best tools for anyone who wants to:
- Work online
- Run a small business
- Sell products or services
- Receive payments from around the world
If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.
Thank you for reading!





How are you? So does it mean you can only link Paypal with FBC bank only in Zimbabwe, how about other banks?
Thanks so much for stopping by.
According to WiTech Zimbabwe, these are the main banks whose USD-denominated Visa/MasterCard cards are compatible for sending PayPal payments:
1. FBC Bank – USD-denominated MasterCard (personal/business)
witechzim.org
2. NMB Bank – USD-prepaid Visa debit card
witechzim.org
3.Steward Bank – MasterCard (FCA accounts)
witechzim.org
4.CBZ Bank – Visa card (FCA account required)
witechzim.org
5. ZB Bank – Visa debit card (USD/FCA)
witechzim.org
6. Ecobank Zimbabwe – Prepaid Visa cards compatible with PayPal
witechzim.org
So yes—FBC is not the only option; these other banks also support PayPal for outgoing payments.