Netflix is one of the most popular streaming services globally and accessible from almost every country. However, your geographic location determines which TV shows and movies you can watch, and in some countries, the selection is very limited. As such, if you are traveling away from home you might want to consider changing your Netflix location to gain secure access to Netflix and your other home streaming services. Not all Virtual Private Networks work with Netflix, however, and will cause the following error to appear:

With the right VPN, using Netflix abroad is extremely simple. When you connect to a VPN, you’re given a new, region-specific IP address from the country your chosen server is in. Netflix relies on the user’s IP address to determine their location, meaning from its point of view, there’s no difference between a user who’s actually in a given country, and one using a VPN to spoof their geographic location from abroad.

These are the best VPN services for securely watching Netflix anywhere:

  • NordVPN: Our 1st choice for watching various Netflix libraries! Extremely fast, with over 5,000 servers, strong security, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  • Surfshark: A highly versatile yet inexpensive service that makes it easy to watch Netflix abroad. Connect as many devices as you like.
  • ExpressVPN:  Fast servers which work with Netflix, Hulu, and more.  Secures your data with encryption. 24/7 support.
  • CyberGhost: Fast servers for streaming Netflix US, UK and more. Lets you connect up to seven devices simultaneously. No-logs VPN with Military-grade encryption.
  • IPVanish: A fast US VPN that has servers in the US that work with NEtflix. Strong on privacy. Excellent apps for all platforms with a kill-switch and obfuscation.
  • PrivateVPN: Very fast download speeds for streaming sites and torrenting. Also works with Netflix. Beginner-friendly apps and up to six connections.
  • AtlasVPN: A superb option for streaming. Works with a wide cross-section of streaming services, including Netflix US. Apps for all devices.

How to use Netflix with a VPN

Just follow these steps to use Netflix with a VPN.

Here’s how to watch Netflix with a VPN:

  • First, sign up for a suitable VPN (we recommend NordVPN).
  • Next, download and install the app, making sure to get the correct version for your device.
  • Connect to the Netflix library you’d like to use and connect to one of your VPN’s servers in that country. For example, you’ll need a US server to access American Netflix if you have traveled outside of the US.
  • Go to the Netflix website and try playing a video. It should load right away, but if not, you can often fix this issue by clearing your browser’s cache and cookies, then refresh the page.

Choosing the right VPN for streaming Netflix

The sheer number of competing VPNs makes it difficult to choose just one. Further, Netflix periodically upgrades its VPN-detection measures and as a result, many VPNs struggle to reliably give secure access to streaming service from abroad. With these factors in mind, we decided to only consider services fitting all of the criteria below:

There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn’t right for you and you’ll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.

  • Can consistently work with several regional Netflix libraries and other popular video streaming services
  • Provides reliable, high-speed internet connections
  • Offers effectively uncrackable encryption and a selection of other security features
  • Doesn’t log any information which could identify you
  • Has apps for a wide range of popular operating systems and devices
  • Offers prompt and knowledgeable customer support

We explain our testing methodology for Netflix VPNs further below.

Best VPNs for watching Netflix– at a glance

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for watching Netflix.

Best VPN services for watching Netflix

Below, you’ll find our list of the best VPNs for streaming your favorite country version of Netflix from any location:

1. NordVPN

                    Jan 2023

Works with NetflixTested Jan 2023

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background
  • FireTV

Website: www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN’s network is the largest of any major VPN, with more than 5,000 VPN server locations in its network throughout 60 countries. That’s not all it has to offer, though: it’s also very fast and capable of securely accessing several different Netflix libraries. A major advantage of this service is that you can access Netflix with any server since if you try to use a version that NordVPN doesn’t work with, you’ll simply be redirected to the US Netflix site.

This VPN keeps you safe using a combination of 256-bit encryption, a customizable kill switch (on all platforms but Android), and protection against port forwarding, IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leaks. There’s also automatic malware-scanning and ad-blocking, plus multi-hop and Tor over VPN features. NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy but you can pay with Bitcoin if you’d like a little extra anonymity. If you need help, you can reach customer support 24/7 via live chat.

NordVPN has apps for Linux, MacOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. Manual configuration is required for select network routers.

BEST VPN FOR NETFLIX:NordVPN is our top pick for streaming Netflix. It’s extremely fast, includes numerous advanced security features, and keeps zero logs. NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee allowing you to try it risk-free.

Pros:

  • Customizable security
  • No-logs policy
  • Unlimited bandwidth
  • Fast streaming speeds
  • Huge server network
  • 24/7 live chat support

Cons:

  • Server connection times are slightly longer

Our score:

Read our full NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark

works with NetflixTested Jan 2023

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website: www.Surfshark.com

Surfshark has around 1,700 servers spread across 63 countries and is fast enough for flawless HD streaming. It’s also capable of securely accessing multiple Netflix libraries including those of the US, the UK, Japan, and India. Additionally, Surfshark has one major advantage over its rivals: there’s no limit to the number of devices you can connect at one time.

256-bit military-grade encryption is enabled by default, and this service offers a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, automatic ad-blocking and malware-scanning, split tunneling, dual VPN functionality, and the ability to obfuscate your traffic. Surfshark doesn’t log any details that could identify you. 24/7 live chat is available in case of any problems.

BEST BUDGET PROVIDER:Surfshark is a reliable VPN that won’t break the bank. Wide choice of servers which work with multiple Netflix libraries and puts major emphasis on your security and privacy. Better still, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Plenty of advanced security options

  • Most servers are fast enough for flawless streaming

  • No connection limits

  • Works well with Netflix

  • Privacy-focused

  • Small network size

  • Some slow speeds

Read our full Surfshark review.

3. ExpressVPN

Website: www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN offers unlimited access to a network of over 3,000 high-speed servers across 94 countries. It’s fast enough for flawless HD (and 4K) streaming, and better still, offers secure access to multiple streaming services. For proof, look no further than Netflix: ExpressVPN works with more than a dozen of the libraries we’ve tested it with, including the ones for the US, the UK, Japan, and Australia.

This VPN keeps your activities hidden from prying eyes using 256-bit military-grade encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and an automatic kill switch (in its desktop apps) that automatically stops all traffic should you disconnect from the VPN unexpectedly. ExpressVPN logs no personally identifiable information and accepts Bitcoin payments, meaning you can sign up and use the service anonymously. Need help? You can reach customer support 24/7 via live chat.

ExpressVPN offers Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS apps. There’s even custom firmware that makes it easy to install and use ExpressVPN on your router and smart DNS services to use with your Smart TV.

SECURE NETFLIX ACCESS ANYWHERE:ExpressVPN works great with Netflix and similar streaming  services. It boasts high speeds, strong security features, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Works with multiple Netflix libraries

  • High download speeds and large server network

  • Strong security features

  • Accepts Bitcoin

  • Maximum of five simultaneous connections

  • Slightly higher price than some of its rivals

Read our full review of Express VPN here.

4. CyberGhost

Website: www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost is an easy-to-use yet powerful VPN built with streaming in mind. It has more than 5,700 high-speed servers spread across 89 countries, and users can see the current load of each, as well as the streaming service it’s designed to work with. While many VPNs struggle with Netflix, CyberGhost has no such problems and grants internet access to many of the libraries we’ve tested it with.

This service comes with several advanced security features including 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch (in every version), an ad-blocker, a malware-scanner, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. Further, CyberGhost doesn’t log any personally identifiable information, so there’s no need to worry about your activities being traced back to you. Live chat is available 24/7 in case you run into any issues.

CyberGhost apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS devices. It can also be manually installed on select wireless routers.

POWERFUL VPN:CyberGhost makes it easy to safely watch Netflix, wherever you are thanks to its high download speeds, user-first privacy policy, and comprehensive security. It even comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

  • Fast, reliable connections

  • Pre-configured security

  • Unlimited bandwidth

  • Great for securely accessing Netflix and other streaming services

  • Doesn’t work in China or the UAE

  • May not be customizable enough to satisfy power users

Read our full CyberGhost review.

5. IPVanish

Website: www.IPVanish.com

IPVanish is a provider based in the United States that is superb when it comes to getting online privacy and security. The VPN has apps for all platforms that come with a wealth of advanced security features, this includes a kill-switch, XOR obfuscation, DNS leak protection, and AES encryption. It also has a solid no logs policy which means it never tracks what its users do while connected.

In addition to being great for gaining online privacy, this VPN is fast. It provides the modern Wireguard tunneling protocol, which makes this VPN ideal for streaming in HD, torrenting, and other data-intensive tasks. While this VPN might not be the very best for accessing foreign streaming services, it does work perfectly with Netflix US. It also works with some other services such as BBC iPlayer.

The VPN has useful live chat support that you can contact at any time of day, and excellent resources such as setup guides on its website to help you set up the VPN on any of your devices. And you can use this VPN on an unlimited number of devices at the same time.

STRONG PRIVACY FEATURES:IPVanish provides fast speeds for streaming Netflix. Highly secure to access the internet privately at home or on public wifi. Lets you connect an unlimited number of devices. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Fast WireGuard protocol

  • Servers in 50+ countries

  • Apps for all devices

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

  • Not as good at accessing a wide range of streaming platforms, so test it with yours before committing

Read our full IPVanish review

6. PrivateVPN

Website: www.PrivateVPN.com

PrivateVPN might have a smaller network than most of its competitors (150+ servers across 60 countries), but it’s ideal for watching Netflix abroad. PrivateVPN offers much faster speeds than many of its rivals and works with a greater range of content. Indeed, it worked with most of the Netflix regions we tested it with, including libraries for the US, the UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Further, with six simultaneous connections permitted, you can stream freely at home and on the go.

This service uses 256-bit encryption, protection against IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leaks, and a kill switch (in its Windows app) to keep your activities private at all times. While you can sign up almost completely anonymously by paying with Bitcoin, PrivateVPN doesn’t keep any logs at all, and as such, your activities cannot be traced back to you. Its live chat support service is available 22 hours per day (it’s offline from 1-3PM PST), and the staff can remotely configure the software for you, if you’d like.

PrivateVPN apps are available for Windows, Android, MacOS, and iOS. This service can be manually installed on Linux systems and select internet routers.

FAST AND VERSATILE:PrivateVPN is very fast, works with more Netflix libraries than most, keeps zero logs,with it’s no logging policy and includes strong security features. A 30-day money-back guarantee is included.

  • Works with more than 20 Netflix catalogs

  • Higher-than-average download speeds

  • Strong focus on privacy and security

  • Fewer servers than most

  • Live chat isn’t 24/7

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

7. AtlasVPN

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Background
  • FireTV

Website: www.atlasvpn.com

AtlasVPN has only been around since 2019, however, it has quickly risen to become one of our favorite VPNs for streaming. It may only have servers in 30+ countries, but it has plenty of servers in 9 locations across the US to let you access Netflix US while on vacation. It also works with many other streaming services including iPlayer, Hulu, Disney Plus, Prime Video, and HBO Max.

The VPN may not have as many advanced features as our top choice. However, it does have an impressive feature set considering it is fairly new, and it is relatively low cost. It provides apps for all platforms that come with a kill-switch, DNS leak protection, AES encryption (IKEv2 protocol), and malware filtering.

Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android and they all provide lightning-fast WireGard connections. This makes AtlasVPN a superb option for watching your TV platforms on vacation, for making video calls on VoIP apps that are blocked, or for other tasks such as torrenting.

FANTASTIC CONNECTION SPEEDS:AtlasVPN is a low-cost option ideal for streaming Netflix and other popular services. The VPN is cheap and it lets you connect to its servers using an unlimited number of devices. Apps for all platforms. Split tunneling feature. Fast WireGuard protocol. Has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Works with Netflix and similar streaming services

  • Fast, reliable connections

  • Strong on security

  • Doesn’t work in China

  • Fewer advanced features than some of our top picks

Find out more in our AtlasVPN review.

Our methodology: finding the best VPNs for Netflix

It goes without saying that not just any VPN will work with Netflix. After all, this is a multi-billion dollar organization, and one that’s poured huge amounts of energy into blocking VPN users. We didn’t just find out which services work and call it a day, though — we also took several other factors into account. This approach helped us ensure that we only recommend the best of the best.

  • Server selection: This dictates which libraries you’ll potentially have access to, so the more countries covered, the better. Also, a larger network can handle more users at once, meaning a more reliable, smoother connection.
  • Speed: Netflix recommends at least a 25 Mbps connection for streaming 4K content. We go one better, and only recommend VPNs that are fast enough to watch on multiple devices simultaneously.
  • Library choice: Plenty of services work with Netflix US, but few work reliably with Netflix France or Japan. We’ve favored providers capable of securely accessing a wide array of regional Netflix libraries.
  • Security/privacy: The VPNs we choose must keep you safe with powerful encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a no-logs policy. Bonus points if they include more advanced security tools as well.
  • Value: Not every VPN justifies its price. We only recommend those that are worth what they charge, and even then, only if they’re a good fit for the task at hand.
  • Ease of use: The VPNs above are all simple enough for novices to use. If you get stuck, don’t panic: they all offer live chat-based support and a huge selection of helpful articles in their website’s knowledge bases.

Would you like to learn more about how we test VPNs? Why not take a look at our full testing methodology?

Can I watch Netflix with a free VPN?

While you might be tempted to use a free VPN, we advise against doing so, for several reasons. Firstly, there’s the performance: free VPNs usually don’t have enough servers to cater to all of their users. This causes near-permanent network slowdown, which is hardly ideal for HD streaming. Additionally, Netflix has invested significant resources to block VPNs, so in all likelihood, you won’t be able to watch anything in the first place.

VPNs have high running costs, whether they’re free or not. As such, free services find ways to generate income without billing the user upfront. Free VPNs will often have large, intrusive ads that can only be removed for a monthly fee. Others make money by storing tracking cookies on your device, allowing the VPN provider to monitor your activities and create a consumer profile that can later be sold to advertisers without your knowledge.

Finally, free VPNs aren’t the most trustworthy services. In fact, we’ve seen a major player in this space sell user bandwidth to help run a botnet. Further, a recent survey of over 280 free-to-use VPNs found that 18% never used any kind of encryption, 66% leaked information over DNS, and almost 40% contained malware. To stay safe online, we recommend using a reputable VPN provider with a customer-first privacy policy instead.

What should I do if I still can’t access Netflix?

So you’ve connected to one of your VPN’s servers, tried to access another country’s version of Netflix, and received an error saying You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again.” There are a few reasons why this might happen, and below, we’ll explain what you can do to fix the problem.

Here’s what to do if your VPN isn’t working with Netflix:

  • Start by clearing your browser’s cache and cookies. Some sites store a cookie on your device if you try accessing them without a VPN. This cookie simply tells the site not to let you enter, but by clearing it and trying again, you might fix the issue.
  • Try closing your browser and reconnecting to the VPN. You might be using an IP address that Netflix has blacklisted and by reconnecting, you can secure a different one.
  • Try asking your VPN provider which server to use. Sometimes, when Netflix improves its VPN detection measures, it takes VPN companies a while to catch up. Despite this, there’s usually at least one working server in high-traffic areas.

Which Netflix region offers the most content?

Netflix doesn’t have a publicly-available country-by-country breakdown of its available video content, so we’re reliant on third-parties to find out exactly what is on offer around the world.

There’s huge variation in terms of catalog size from one country to another, however. Usually, this is because Netflix only has the rights to show titles in specific countries, but local laws also have a part to play. For instance, Saudi Arabia has laws against the transmission of “material impinging on public order, religious values, public morals, and privacy,” and recently used this to block the release of a show which represented the Crown Prince in a negative light.

If your provider claims to be able to securely access a specific Netflix library, but you’re having issues doing so, you can always contact customer support and see if there’s a specific server you should be using first.

So what does this mean? Simply, although it’s not illegal, Netflix frowns upon using a VPN to stream its content abroad. If it’s any comfort though, to date, there are no reports of anyone being banned from the service for using a VPN.

  • Connect to a server closer to your physical location where possible. Your traffic won’t have to travel as far as a result.

  • Switch to a server with less load. Some VPNs show the load on each server. Switching to one with less load can improve performance.

  • Try a different VPN protocol. Some VPN protocols are faster than others. Most major VPNs have implemented WireGuard which is great for streaming.

  • Enable split tunneling. Some VPNs have a split tunneling feature. Activating this allows you to let your VPN bypass Netflix but continue to secure your other apps.

Use a wired connection. A wired connection is likely to be faster than wifi. If you’re using a desktop device, you can connect it to your router with an ethernet cable.