How To Open an Upwork Account In Kenya

Introduction.

If you’re looking for ways to earn money online from the comfort of your home, Upwork could be your perfect platform.

As one of the biggest freelancing websites globally, it connects clients from around the world with skilled professionals.

Whether you’re a writer, graphic designer, web developer, or even a virtual assistant, there’s always something for you on Upwork.

But if you’re in Kenya and wondering how to open an Upwork account, you might feel a bit confused about the steps to follow, or what’s needed to get started.

Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. I’ll walk you through the whole process, step by step, so you can have your Upwork account set up and ready to go in no time.

Upwork can offer you a lot of opportunities, but there are a few things you should know before diving in. So, let’s break this down, starting with why Upwork is a great option for anyone in Kenya, and how you can start earning on the platform.

Why Upwork is a Great Opportunity in Kenya

Kenya has a growing number of freelancers, and platforms like Upwork make it possible for anyone with skills and an internet connection to find work from clients across the globe.

According to recent statistics, the number of freelancers in Kenya has been increasing steadily.

Kenya is one of the leading countries in Africa when it comes to online freelancing, with a huge rise in the demand for digital services.

For instance, freelance income from platforms like Upwork reached over KSh 60 billion in 2020 alone, showing just how much potential there is.

So, if you’re skilled and looking for work opportunities, Upwork could be a great way to start. Whether you’re a part-time freelancer or thinking about full-time freelancing, Upwork has a lot to offer.

The best part? The platform has a wide range of categories—anything from writing, marketing, and translation, to design, programming, and customer support. With such variety, there’s always something you can do, no matter your skills.

How Do I Open an Upwork Account in Kenya?

Okay, now let’s get into how you can actually open an Upwork account in Kenya. It’s simple, and I’ll explain everything in detail to make sure you understand the process.

1. Sign Up on the Upwork Website

First things first, you’ll need to go to Upwork’s website (www.upwork.com) and click on the “Sign Up” button.

Here, you’ll be asked to provide basic details like your name, email address, and password.

Make sure to use an email address that you check often because Upwork will send important notifications there.

2. Choose Your Account Type

Upwork will ask you whether you’re signing up as a freelancer or as a client (someone who hires freelancers). Since you’re here to learn how to open a freelancer account, choose “Freelancer.”

3. Fill Out Your Profile Information

This is where you’ll start building your online presence. Upwork will ask for some basic information about yourself. This includes:

Name and Location: Make sure to fill this in as accurately as possible. Upwork uses this to know where you’re from, and it can help with finding clients in your region.
Profile Picture: Upload a clear, professional photo of yourself. Clients are more likely to trust you if you look professional.
Overview: This is a summary where you tell potential clients who you are, what skills you have, and why they should hire you. Be honest and try to keep it clear and simple. Let them know what you can offer and why you’re the right person for the job.
Skills: Upwork will give you the option to list your skills. This is important because it helps clients find you when searching for specific talent. Make sure to choose skills that you’re good at.
Education and Work Experience: Here, you’ll list any relevant education or work experience. If you’re new to freelancing, don’t worry! Even if your experience is in personal projects or volunteer work, you can still include it.

4. Set Your Hourly Rate

This can be tricky for a lot of freelancers. Your hourly rate is the amount you’ll charge per hour of work.

You can set this rate based on your experience and skill level. For example, if you’re just starting out, you might want to charge a lower rate to attract clients. As you gain more experience, you can increase your rate.

Keep in mind that many clients on Upwork are looking for affordable services, but they also expect quality.

It’s a good idea to research what others in your field are charging so you can set a competitive rate.

5. Add Your Payment Method

Once your profile is ready, you’ll need to set up how you want to get paid. Upwork offers several options, including Payoneer, direct bank transfers, and PayPal. For Kenyan freelancers, Payoneer is often a good option, as it allows you to withdraw your earnings to a local bank account.

6. Complete Your Profile and Get Verified

Upwork requires you to complete your profile before you can start bidding for jobs. This includes providing some extra details, such as your phone number and possibly going through an identity verification process. Once your profile is complete and verified, you’ll be able to apply for jobs and start earning.

7. Start Bidding for Jobs

Now that your account is set up, it’s time to start finding work. Upwork works on a bidding system, which means you’ll need to submit proposals to clients who are looking for your skills.

When applying for jobs, make sure to write a tailored proposal that shows the client why you’re the best person for the job.

You’ll also need to buy “Connects” to apply for jobs. These are the credits Upwork uses to manage proposals. You get a small number of free Connects each month, but you can purchase more if needed.

8. Build Your Reputation

When you get hired for your first job, make sure to do excellent work. Clients will leave reviews and ratings based on your performance.

Positive reviews will help you build a good reputation on Upwork, which will make it easier for you to attract future clients.

FAQs

How long does it take to open an Upwork account in Kenya?

Opening an Upwork account can be done in just a few hours if you have all the necessary details ready. However, getting approved and fully set up might take a few days while your profile is reviewed and verified.

How do I get paid on Upwork in Kenya?

You can get paid through PayPal, Payoneer, or direct bank transfers. Many Kenyan freelancers prefer Payoneer because it allows you to withdraw money in local currency easily.

Do I need a work permit to work on Upwork in Kenya?

No, you don’t need a work permit to be a freelancer on Upwork in Kenya. Upwork is an online platform, so as long as you have access to the internet and the required skills, you can work from anywhere.

How much does it cost to open an Upwork account?

It’s free to open an Upwork account. However, you’ll need to buy Connects to apply for jobs, and there may be service fees when you earn money. Upwork takes a percentage of what you earn, which decreases as you earn more money from a client.