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How to Watch Netflix With a VPN in Other Countries (2023)

How to Watch Netflix With a VPN in Other Countries (2023)

If you’re traveling and want to access your home Netflix region, a VPN can help. However, not every VPN works with Netflix. The platform uses powerful geoblocking technology that can easily detect and block poor-quality VPNs.

So, your first step to watching Netflix in another country is to choose a reliable tried-and-tested Netflix VPN. That’s why my team and I tested 45+ VPNs to find the best ones that work with Netflix. I’ve also put together a short step-by-step guide with several tips to help you watch Netflix with a VPN. All of the VPNs on my shortlist work with multiple Netflix regions and are fast enough to stream in 4K (UHD).

My top recommendation is ExpressVPN. It offers a global server network and fast speeds to easily stream Netflix. Best of all, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not 100% happy, getting a refund is easy.

Watch Netflix With ExpressVPN

Quick Guide: How to Watch Netflix With a VPN in 3 Easy Steps

  1. Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN as it has reliable servers around the world and fast speeds for streaming Netflix. You can try ExpressVPN without risk (it has a 30-day money-back policy).
  2. Connect to a server. Select a location where your preferred content is available. For example, connect to a server in the US to watch US Netflix.
  3. Start browsing. Enjoy secure access to your Netflix account from anywhere.

Why You Need a VPN to Watch Netflix

Some Netflix shows are only accessible in certain regions due to licensing agreements. The platform checks your IP address to see where you’re located, then redirects you to the library for your region. For example, if you live in the US but travel abroad, your Netflix account will connect to the library for the country you’re in instead of Netflix US. That means you can lose access to the shows you usually watch at home.

By using a VPN, you can spoof your IP address and regain access to your local Netflix library. VPNs reroute your internet traffic via a server in your chosen country, masking your real IP address with one from that country. This leads websites and services into thinking that you’re actually located in a different region — allowing you to unblock the content you want. For example, if you’re outside the US but connect to a US VPN server, you can borrow a US IP address to access the Netflix US library.

Keep in mind that not every VPN can unblock Netflix. A large server network doesn’t guarantee access to your Netflix home library — what’s more important is whether the VPN’s IP addresses are properly maintained. For example, the issue with a lot of VPNs is that nearly all their IP addresses have already been blocked by Netflix and were never replaced. This can lead to you getting the annoying “You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” M7111-5059 error message.

screenshot of Netflix's VPN or proxy error message M7111-5059By choosing the right VPN, you should never have to see this screen

A quality Netflix VPN does a better job of evading detection, and will be constantly spinning up new IP addresses — so even if some are blocked, there will be plenty of new working alternatives available.

Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free For 30 Days >>

How to Change Netflix Region With a VPN on Different Devices

Before following the below steps, you’ll need to get a VPN first. I recommend ExpressVPN because it has plenty of highly reliable servers around the world for watching Netflix anywhere. It also has the fastest speeds of all the services I tested — ideal for Ultra HD streaming.

Windows PC & macOS

  1. Connect to a VPN server. Select a location where the Netflix show you want to watch is available.
  2. Access your Netflix account. Log in to Netflix with your account credentials on your browser or desktop app.
  3. Start watching Netflix. You should now be able to access your favorite Netflix shows, wherever you are.

Android & iOS

  1. Connect to a VPN server. Pick a country where the Netflix content you want to access is available.
  2. Clear your cache. Open your app management menu, click on the Netflix app, and select the Clear cache option.
  3. Open your Netflix app and log in. Enjoy access to your new Netflix region.

Gaming Consoles

  1. Install your VPN on your router. This allows you to use the VPN with any device on your home network — including ones that don’t usually support VPN apps, like PlayStation or Xbox. You can also share the VPN connection over WiFi from another device (like your PC).
  2. Connect to a server. Pick a country where the Netflix content you want to access is available. This may be done via your router settings or through a dedicated router app, depending on the VPN.
  3. Open the Netflix app. You should now have access to the content available in the country where the VPN server is located.

Smart TV

  1. Install the VPN on your smart TV. Find the VPN app in your TV’s app store and download it. If your chosen VPN doesn’t have an app for your Smart TV, try installing it on your router instead.
  2. Connect to a server. Pick a country where the Netflix content you want to access is available.
  3. Open the Netflix app. You will now have access to your desired Netflix library.
Pro Tip: Installing a VPN on your router can be quite complex. If you don’t want to do lots of tricky manual setup, ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer lets you easily watch Netflix on any smart TV or game console. It only takes a few minutes to set up, and it can reliably access Netflix US.

Watch Netflix With ExpressVPN >>

5 Best VPNs to Watch Netflix — Updated in 2023

1. ExpressVPN — Fast Speeds to Watch Netflix in 4K Quality Without Buffering

Best Feature Impressive speeds to stream Netflix content in UHD without delays
Server Network 3,000 servers in 94 countries let you access your Netflix account even when abroad
Simultaneous Device Connections 5
Compatible With Mac, Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more

ExpressVPN is impressively fast, perfect for uninterrupted 4K Netflix streaming. The VPN uses a custom-made and optimized Lightway VPN protocol to provide the best speeds. Most VPNs slow you down considerably due to the encryption process, but with ExpressVPN, I measured only a mere 6% drop in speed on its US server. This gave me a final speed of 94Mbps — much higher than the 25Mbps needed for UHD streaming.

Screenshot of ExpressVPN providing good Netflix streaming speedsI had no buffering or audio stuttering watching Netflix

With the MediaStreamer feature, you can enjoy the US Netflix library on devices that don’t normally support VPN apps, regardless of where you are. I had no problems setting up MediaStreamer for my PS5 and Tizen smart TV. All I had to do was copy and paste the smart DNS address provided to me into the network settings of the target device. After that, I could open the Netflix app and enjoy my favorite shows from the US library.

The VPN also has a ton of servers, making it easy to bypass geo-restrictions. Connected to its New York server, I had no problems accessing my Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ accounts while on a trip to Eastern Europe. ExpressVPN can easily access Netflix UK, Australia, and Japan as well. The connection was stable and I never had any disconnects or location errors while watching Obsession.

One minor downfall is that the VPN is a tad expensive. But ExpressVPN often runs deals or promotions that let you save money — I got 49% off and 3 extra free months by opting for the 12-month plan. This got me an affordable final price of just $6.67/month.

Plus, getting a refund is quick and straightforward. If you don’t like the service, ExpressVPN comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. I contacted support via 24/7 live chat (you can also use the email ticket system), answered a few standard questions, and got my refund approved. Just 3 days later, I got my money back in my bank account.

ExpressVPN Offer June 2023: For a limited time only, you can get an ExpressVPN subscription for up to 49% off! Don’t miss out!

Useful Features

  • Automatic obfuscation. All of ExpressVPN’s servers have obfuscation technology, which makes VPN traffic look like normal traffic. This allows you to stream Netflix on restrictive networks that use VPN-blocking firewalls — examples include workplaces, schools, and even some countries, such as China.
  • Strong security. ExpressVPN keeps your connection secure with military-grade encryption (256-bit AES), a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. This ensures neither Netflix or online snoopers can see your real location or any other identifying information.
  • Unlimited bandwidth. You can stream Netflix content in the highest quality without worrying about hitting any data caps.
  • Easy to use. All ExpressVPN apps are intuitive and responsive. Connecting to a server just takes a few clicks, and even complete VPN beginners should have no trouble using the apps.

Watch Netflix With ExpressVPN >>

2. CyberGhost — Streaming-Optimized Servers to Quickly Access Netflix Anywhere

Best Feature Dedicated Netflix servers to easily watch your favorite shows anywhere
Server Network 9,139 servers in 91 countries overall, giving you global coverage
Simultaneous Device Connections 7
Compatible With Mac, Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more

CyberGhost comes with servers specifically designed to unblock content on Netflix. These servers are regularly maintained and updated by the company to ensure reliable access to popular Netflix libraries. I tested CyberGhost’s dedicated US Netflix servers and had no issues catching up with Shadow and Bone while visiting the UK. The servers are labeled and listed under the “For streaming” tab, so it’s easy to find the ideal one for your needs.

Screenshot of CyberGhost app showing Netflix streaming-optimized serversI had access to servers for Netflix UK, Canada, Japan, and even South Korea

Despite being slower than ExpressVPN, CyberGhost is fast enough for UHD streaming and offers unlimited bandwidth. While connected to its US server, I experienced no buffering watching Twin Peaks, despite being 9,564km away from home (being far away from the VPN server usually slows your speeds). In fact, my connection remained above the 91Mbps mark, which was just a 9% drop from my regular speeds.

CyberGhost’s apps are user-friendly. For example, you can mark frequently used servers as “favorites” for easy access later. You may also type “Netflix” into the search bar to see a full list of CyberGhost’s Netflix-optimized streaming servers.

One slight disappointment is that the monthly plans aren’t just expensive but come with a reduced money-back guarantee (14 days). However, if you go for a long-term subscription, the price drops to just $2.11/month. The long-term plans also extend the money-back guarantee — allowing you to try CyberGhost risk-free for 45 days.

June 2023 Deal: CyberGhost is currently offering 84% off its most popular plan! Take advantage of this offer now and save more on your CyberGhost subscription.

Useful Features

  • WireGuard protocol. CyberGhost uses the WireGuard protocol by default, which is designed for fast speeds. This is perfect for seamless high-quality streaming on Netflix.
  • Router compatibility. All accounts get a total of 7 simultaneous connections. However, by installing it on your router, you can use the VPN on every device on your network without being subject to this limit — including smart TVs and game consoles.
  • Dedicated IP. For a small added fee, you can purchase a dedicated IP with CyberGhost. This is an IP address only you can use, unlike regular VPN IP addresses, which are shared by many users. Dedicated IPs are less likely to be detected and blocked by Netflix for this reason, allowing more reliable access to the platform.

Watch Netflix With CyberGhost >>

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Customizable Settings To Tailor the VPN for Streaming Netflix

Best Feature Lets you customize various settings to optimize streaming speeds on Netflix
Server Network 29,650 servers in 84 countries to get a new IP for Netflix
Simultaneous Device Connections Unlimited
Compatible With Mac, Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more

PIA offers several adjustable settings, letting you optimize your connection for Netflix. For example, you can switch encryption level — I recommend lowering your encryption to AES 128-bit from 256-bit to get a nice boost in speed while remaining highly secure. The VPN also lets you choose between OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols. For the best speeds, I highly recommend choosing WireGuard.

Screenshot of PIA's customizable settingsIt only takes a few clicks to speed up your connection for Netflix streaming

Unlimited device connections mean you can connect as many devices as you want to PIA, without any restrictions. When testing PIA, I connected and streamed Netflix on a handful of devices and didn’t notice a drop in performance. The connection remained stable and my speed stayed above 88Mbps, just 12% slower than my base connection.

Similar to CyberGhost, the service also offers a few streaming-optimized servers. You can select from 7 different locations, including popular Netflix regions such as the UK, the US, Japan, India, and Australia.

By going for a long-term subscription, you can get PIA for just $2.03/month. Monthly plans don’t provide anything extra but cost more in the long run, so I recommend getting the 3-year subscription.

June 2023 Update: PIA doesn’t usually have deals or discounts (it’s already so affordable), but right now you can get a new subscription for a crazy 83% off!

Useful Features

  • Huge server network. PIA offers 29,650 servers across 84 countries — it’s one of the biggest VPN networks out there. This means you’ll run little risk of running into overcrowded servers, which can cause massive slowdowns and sudden disconnects.
  • Split-tunneling. You can choose to route some apps through the VPN, while others stay on your regular internet connection. For example, I could make sure Netflix went through the VPN (giving me access to the South Korean library) while my browser stayed on my regular internet, allowing me to browse local websites and content.
  • Money-back guarantee. The service comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it risk-free.

Watch Netflix With PIA >>

4. NordVPN — User-Friendly VPN Apps to Access Your Favorite Netflix Library with Ease

Best Feature Beginner-friendly and intuitive user interface to easily switch Netflix region
Server Network 5,710 servers in 60 countries covering all popular Netflix libraries
Simultaneous Device Connections 6
Compatible With Mac, Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more

NordVPN’s intuitive apps are ideal for VPN beginners. Thanks to its world map interface, it only takes a few seconds to find the server you need to unblock your desired Netflix library. Just pan the map to the relevant country and click it to connect. It also only takes a few minutes to install, and everything works right out of the box.

The VPN’s NordLynx protocol uses an upgraded version of WireGuard for efficient video streaming. It’s designed to be lightweight, simple, and efficient, making it faster than many traditional VPN protocols. When testing the US servers, my average download speed was 82Mbps, letting me watch NCIS in high quality without delays.

The only issue I have is that certain servers take a while to connect. However, since NordVPN has 5,710 servers all over the world, it’s easy to switch to a different location if you encounter a slow connection. You also get unlimited bandwidth, so you can stream without interruptions once you get a working server.

If you’re unsure, you can try NordVPN for free using its 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested this policy by contacting support and asking for a refund. After a short chat, the rep approved my request, and my money arrived within a week.

Useful Features

  • 24/7 live chat. When I had an issue with NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature (an ad and malware-blocker), the 24/7 support team gave me a useful fix within minutes.
  • Obfuscated servers. These servers disguise VPN traffic as regular traffic, allowing you to access services like Netflix without being detected by VPN-blocking firewalls.

Watch Netflix With NordVPN >>

5. Surfshark — NoBorders Mode to Securely Access Netflix from Restrictive Regions

Best Feature NoBorders and Camoflauge mode lets you beat VPN blocks to access Netflix
Server Network 3,200 servers in 100 countries to change your IP in seconds
Simultaneous Device Connections Unlimited
Compatible With Mac, Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more

Thanks to Surfshark’s NoBorders mode, you can access and watch Netflix in some restricted regions. The feature identifies whether you’re in a censorship-heavy country with restricted internet access. If so, it gives you a list of servers that work best under such restrictions, allowing you to easily access Netflix.

Nicely, Surfshark generally offers good speeds, too. While I did observe a considerable drop in speed on long-distance servers (around 20%), I was still able to stream 4K content on Netflix smoothly without any delays. When testing Surfshark with the WireGuard protocol, I experienced no slowdown on the US servers.

You can get Surfshark’s long-term plan for just $2.30/month. Monthly plans don’t offer anything extra but cost more, so I recommend the yearly plans. In case you don’t like the VPN, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee. I got my refund in just a few business days.

Useful Features

  • Unlimited device connections. Like PIA, Surfshark also offers unlimited device connections. While Surfshark isn’t quite as fast as PIA, I could still stream Netflix on several devices without running into any slowdowns or disconnects.
  • Camouflage Mode. This obfuscates your connection and lets you evade VPN-blocking firewalls. It’s best used in conjunction with NoBorders mode if you’re in a restrictive country.

Watch Netflix With Surfshark >>

Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for Netflix

All the VPNs on my list offer impressive speeds to watch your favorite Netflix library without delays. But if you want to perform your own tests, feel free to use my checklist of key features:

  • Fast speeds. To stream Netflix in UHD without delays or audio stutters, you need a fast VPN with unlimited bandwidth. Look for a service that doesn’t drop your speeds by more than 50%.
  • Large server network. When traveling, a VPN with a worldwide network gives you the best chance of accessing your home Netflix library (wherever you’re from).
  • Reliable customer support. Choose a VPN with helpful support teams that are available 24/7 — so you can get assistance wherever you are in the world.
  • Device compatibility. Make sure you select a VPN that is compatible with the devices you use.
  • Trustworthy money-back guarantee. If a VPN has a reliable money-back guarantee, you can receive a complete refund if you’re not happy with the service.

Watch Netflix With ExpressVPN >>

FAQs on Watching Netflix With a VPN

Is it legal to watch Netflix with a VPN?

Yes, using a VPN with Netflix is legal. So if you’re traveling abroad, you can connect to a VPN server in your home region to watch your local Netflix shows.

That being said, it’s important to note that some countries (like China, Russia, and Iran) have laws that restrict the use of VPNs or make it illegal to access certain types of content. Always check your local laws and regulations before using a VPN.

Does Netflix ban VPN users?

Not as of the time of writing. There have been no recorded incidents of a Netflix user being banned for simply using a VPN. Instead, Netflix attempts to block VPN connections, not ban the users themselves.

It’s also worth noting that Netflix states in its Terms of Use that you should primarily access content in the geographic location in which you established your account. Using a VPN while traveling to access your local library shouldn’t present any problems. However, using a VPN to consistently access libraries outside your home country may violate these terms. Please keep up to date with Netflix’s Terms of Use at all times to make sure you aren’t breaking any rules.

What should I do if my VPN isn’t working with Netflix?

There are a few things you can try to troubleshoot the issue. But before doing anything, it’s worth noting that not all VPN providers can access Netflix. I’d first ensure you’re using a reliable VPN that’s been proven to consistently work with Netflix.

If your VPN should really be working with Netflix but isn’t, try the following:

  • Make sure your VPN app is up to date. If you’re having trouble with your VPN connection, it may be due to a bug. You can usually resolve this issue by installing the most recent version of the VPN application.
  • Connect to a different VPN server. Netflix is pretty good at blocking VPN IP addresses. Luckily, the best VPNs have huge server networks that are regularly updated. Try connecting to a different server in the same country to see if that resolves the issue.
  • Try a different protocol. Some VPN protocols aren’t strong enough to work with Netflix. Try switching to one that’s more secure, like Lightway or OpenVPN.
  • Clear your browser cache and cookies. These files contain a lot of information, including your real location. Clearing them can help resolve Netflix connectivity issues. Using Incognito mode (or private mode) can also prevent cached information from revealing your location to the streaming site.
  • Disable location services. Make sure that location services are disabled on your device, as this can sometimes interfere with your VPN connection and prevent you from accessing Netflix.
  • Contact your VPN provider. If you’ve tried the above steps and you’re still having trouble connecting to Netflix, contact your VPN provider’s customer support team for help.

Can I change Netflix region without buying a VPN?

You can’t reliably change your Netflix region without a VPN service. You can try using a free proxy service, but many of these fail to unblock Netflix — not to mention the fact that they leave your connection entirely insecure. Tor, a browser that hides your location, is another option, but it’s so slow that it’s usually impossible to stream. Ultimately, using a VPN is the most efficient and convenient way to change Netflix’s region.

Can I get Netflix subtitles in my language?

Yes, you can manually select your subtitle preferences in your Netflix settings. Changing your Netflix region with a VPN can alter the subtitles that are automatically offered to you. However, it’s easy to switch these up by going to Audio & Subtitles on your account page.

How do I change my Netflix billing country?

You can change your Netflix billing country if you have a payment method that is accepted in the new country. To change your Netflix billing country, get a reliable Netflix VPN, connect to the appropriate server, then follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your Netflix account. Click on your profile icon in the top right corner of the screen and select Account.
  2. Click on the Membership & Billing section. Then select the Change billing information option.
  3. Select Billing information. Enter your new billing information, including your new billing address and payment method.
  4. Save the new changes. Simply click on the Update payment info button.

Can I watch Netflix with a free VPN?

It’s not recommended. Many free VPNs have tiny networks, poor security, and bad customer service, making it difficult to find a server that works with Netflix. Additionally, most free VPNs deliberately restrict your speeds, bandwidth, and data — limiting how much you can stream. It’s better to use a reputable paid VPN with a money-back guarantee. That way you get reliable access to Netflix.

Even if you find a free VPN without too many limitations, you could be putting your data at risk. Free services have been known to log what you do online and sell the information to the highest bidder.

Watch Netflix With a VPN in Minutes

With a VPN, you can easily catch up on your favorite Netflix shows from anywhere. All of the services on my list have no issues getting around the platform’s blocks and provide fast speeds for uninterrupted Netflix streaming.

ExpressVPN is the best choice for Netflix. It offers an incredibly large server network, fast speeds for streaming, and reliable access to all the most popular Netflix libraries. It’s also backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test ExpressVPN risk-free. In case it doesn’t meet your standards, getting a refund is simple.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs to Watch Netflix…

Rank
Provider
Our Score

Discount

Visit Website

1

medal

9.8 /10

Save 49%!

2
9.8 /10

Save 84%!

3
9.6 /10

Save 83%!

4
9.4 /10

Save 60%!

5
9.2 /10

Save 82%!

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