How to change your location on TikTok with a VPN in 2025

President Joe Biden recently signed legislation that banned TikTok in the US on January 19, 2025. Although President-elect Donald Trump has filed a brief to delay the ban, US residents have lost access to TikTok. The app is already banned in India, China, and Armenia and restricted on government devices in regions like Canada, the EU, and several US states.

Even if TikTok is blocked in your region, you can still use it from anywhere with a VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN allows you to change your virtual location by connecting to a server in another country where TikTok is still accessible. Once the US TikTok ban is confirmed, the only way to bypass geo-restrictions and let you enjoy TikTok’s endless trends and content is by using a reliable VPN.

In my testing, NordVPN, Surfshark, and Proton VPN have all proven to be the best VPNs for unblocking TikTok. These VPNs are fast, secure, and reliable for tricking TikTok into thinking you're in a location where the app isn't restricted. You only need to install one on your device, choose a server in countries like Canada or Mexico where TikTok is still available, and you're all set to scroll!

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Why should you use a VPN to change your TikTok region?

The most reliable method to change your TikTok region is a VPN. A VPN allows you to access TikTok content from other countries by making it look like you’re browsing from a different location. Using this technique, your internet connection is rerouted through another country, changing your IP address and making TikTok believe you are located there. For example, if you’re in the US and want to explore viral content from Japan, a VPN will make it appear like you’re accessing TikTok from Tokyo. This will unlock a new set of videos, trends, and challenges specific to that region.

Unfortunately, TikTok was blocked in the US in January 2025. The Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act was signed into law, and the US government banned TikTok because ByteDance didn't sell the app before January 15, 2025. This made TikTok inaccessible to millions of US users. When I try to access TikTok in the US I see this notification "Sorry, TikTok isn't available right now":

A TikTok US site message read: "A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S. Unfortunately, that means you can't use TikTok for now. We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office. Please stay tuned!"

While the TikTok is now unblocked in the US, the app is removed from Apple App Store and Google Play store. You still need a reliable VPN to redownload TikTok after the ban, by using your location to other country.

TikTok is already banned in countries like India, China, and Armenia due to concerns about privacy and national security. Governments are particularly worried about how TikTok collects and shares user data, especially given its connections to China. Many countries, including the EU and Canada, have banned TikTok on government devices due to concerns that sensitive information could be compromised. However, a VPN bypasses these geo-restrictions and ensures your privacy by encrypting your connection and protecting your data from government surveillance or even TikTok itself.

A common concern when using a VPN with TikTok is that it will result in a shadowban, where your content is not visible to others without your knowledge. While TikTok has systems to detect unusual activity, the risk of shadowbans is generally low if you use a reliable VPN. The key is to choose a VPN that offers obfuscation features, which disguise your VPN traffic to make it look like regular internet use. A trusted TikTok VPN like NordVPN ensures that your activity remains under the radar, minimizing the risk of being flagged by TikTok’s algorithm. With a reliable VPN, you can access TikTok securely and privately without compromising your content's visibility from anywhere.

Top 3 best VPNs to change region on TikTok: shortlist

1. NordVPN

   The best VPN to change TikTok region in 2025
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   Cheap VPN to change TikTok account region and access global content
   9.5
3. Proton VPN

   Reliable VPN to change location on TikTok and browse securely
   8.6

How does TikTok know my location?

TikTok determines your location through your device's IP address and SIM card. If location tracking is enabled on the app, it can pinpoint your exact location using GPS data. This is why, when I opened TikTok while traveling, the content I saw was tailored to the country I was in at the time. However, this location-based algorithm can be problematic if you're trying to access global content or use TikTok in a country where the app is banned, as it blocks or restricts content based on your region. Below is a detailed explanation of how TikTok knows your location:

• IP Address. Every device connected to the internet has a unique IP address, which TikTok can use to identify your general location. This allows TikTok to show region-specific content based on your IP’s geographical information.
• SIM card. TikTok checks the country of your mobile network by analyzing the SIM card or phone number you're using. Since mobile network providers typically operate within a specific country, this helps TikTok pinpoint where you’re accessing the app from.
• Device GPS. If location services are enabled, TikTok can directly trace your location using your device’s GPS. This allows the app to see localized content—such as trending videos and other popular videos in your area.

These location-based methods ensure that TikTok delivers content relevant to where you are, but it can also limit your access to global content or restrict the app to certain countries. If you're looking to bypass these limitations and unlock TikTok content from other regions, a VPN is the best solution.

Luckily, a VPN can mask your real location by changing your IP address and rerouting your internet traffic through servers in different countries. Using this method, you can browse TikTok's full range of regional content from anywhere in the world.

Best VPNs to change TikTok location

1. NordVPN – best VPN to change TikTok region privately
2. Surfshark VPN – advanced and secure VPN for TikTok location change
3. Proton VPN – reliable VPN to change TikTok country cheaply

To access TikTok in any region, invest in a secure VPN. After testing several options, I’ve selected only the top-performing VPNs that unblock TikTok in the US and other regions. My tests focused mainly on encryption strength, security toolkit, and server network - three essentials for geo-restricted social networks. Here are some of the VPNs that stood out among the rest:

1. NordVPN – the best VPN for swift TikTok region change

NordVPN is the best VPN tool for changing your TikTok region. With over 7100 servers spread across 118 countries, I had no trouble accessing TikTok content from any country I wanted. For instance, when I connected to the Canada server, TikTok's algorithm detected my location and showed me content tailored to that specific area. And it’s not just about unlocking new content—NordVPN's technology ensures smooth, lag-free browsing, thanks to the NordLynx tunneling protocol.

Moreover, NordVPN's no-logs policy ensures you can access TikTok without restriction. With the ability to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously, I could watch TikTok on my phone, tablet, and laptop without sacrificing security or speed. NordVPN also provides a kill switch and IP/DNS leak protection, which keeps your real location hidden, even if the VPN connection drops. Besides, NordVPN’s obfuscated servers allow seamless access to TikTok’s full content library, easily bypassing any restrictions for users in regions with heavy censorship.

NordVPN takes care of many security aspects. I had access to Threat Protection, which shielded me from malware, user trackers, and ads. The Double VPN feature routed my traffic via two servers for twice the encryption. Additionally, I could use split-tunneling to select which apps would be protected by the VPN and which would not.

NordVPN costs $3.09/month, and you can use a discount code to get a long-term plan. The service also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free and test how easily you can change your TikTok region. A 7-day free trial is available on the Google Play Store for Android users.

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark VPN – well-rounded VPN to change region on TikTok affordably

Surfshark VPN is ideal for securing your TikTok usage and changing regions for geo-restrictions. Its versatile toolkit and global coverage made it easy to change my TikTok location. You can also freely share the account with the whole household—all subscriptions have unlimited connections.

When I tested Surfshark VPN for changing my TikTok region, I was impressed with how easy and fast it was to access content from different countries. With over 3200 servers in 100+ countries, I could easily switch to US or South Korea servers. I could watch region-specific TikToks, like trending challenges or local content I wouldn't normally see. I could watch high-quality streams smoothly because the next-generation WireGuard protocol ensured videos loaded quickly without buffering.

Surfshark's Camouflage and NoBorders modes were key to bypassing restrictive firewalls when I was in regions with heavy censorship. Moreover, CleanWeb blocked annoying ads and kept me safe from online threats while browsing TikTok. Plus, for Android users, Surfshark also offers GPS Spoofing, which lets you fake your GPS location—ideal for accessing location-based TikTok content while keeping your privacy intact.

$2.19/month isn’t much to pay to change your TikTok location, especially after applying a Surfshark VPN coupon. But first, take the service out for a spin with the 7-day free trial, available via Google Play and Apple App Stores. Then commit risk-free, thanks to the 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

3. Proton VPN – optimal VPN to change TikTok country safely

Proton VPN is an excellent choice for changing your TikTok region and accessing content from different countries. With 9900 servers spread across 117 countries, I could easily switch between regions like the US, Japan, and the UK, unlocking exclusive TikTok trends from each. Since Proton VPN uses AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption and advanced tunneling protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, streaming high-quality TikTok videos was seamless and buffer-free.

Additionally, the reliable kill switch in Proton VPN ensured that my real location remained hidden if the VPN connection dropped, while the third-party audited no-logs policy made sure my data was never logged. On top of that, Proton VPN also includes DNS leak protection and a Tor over VPN feature, providing an extra anonymity layer while browsing TikTok. With its IP masking feature and Stealth mode, I could bypass even the most advanced VPN blocking methods.

Although Proton VPN isn't the most intuitive VPN I've used, its robust features compensate for its cluttered interface. The app is still very functional, and after a little time, I got comfortable navigating it. One standout feature for me was the ability to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously. I could stream TikTok on my phone, tablet, and laptop all at once without worrying about losing connection or compromising my security.

Proton VPN offers free US, Netherlands, Romania, Poland, and Japan servers. However, these free options have fewer security features, and you'll receive random server assignments than the premium version. Fortunately, it offers a paid plan for $3.59/month, a reasonable price considering its premium security features and global server network. Plus, you can use the Proton VPN coupon to get a discount and even try a 7-day free trial, so you can test everything out before fully committing with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of Proton VPN, read our Proton VPN.

How to change TikTok region on different devices

Changing your TikTok region on different devices is a simple process, but it requires a reliable VPN to ensure smooth access. You can bypass TikTok regional restrictions and access global content with a VPN on an iPhone, Android, or web browser. Here's how you can do it on each device.

Change TikTok region on iOS

1. Subscribe to a VPN suitable for iOS devices. I recommend Surfshark, an easy-to-use iOS app with a 7-day free trial.
2. Download the app from the Apple App Store and log into your VPN account.
3. Disable GPS tracking on your phone.
4. Connect to a server in any country you want. For example, if you want to see trending videos from Japan, connect to a Japanese server.
5. Open TikTok and enjoy the latest viral videos!

Change location on TikTok on iOS

Change TikTok location on Android

1. Sign up for an Android-compatible VPN. You can never go wrong with NordVPN, the best VPN in the industry.
2. Get the VPN app from the Google Play Store
3. Boot up the client and log into your account
4. Disable GPS tracking on your phone
5. Pick a server in a region that suits your needs the most
6. Congratz, you’ve unlocked TikTok’s full potential!

Change location on TikTok on Android

Change TikTok region on PC

1. Get a VPN that works on Windows and Mac operating systems. NordVPN offers the same features on both platforms.
2. Download the VPN client from the provider’s official website
3. Open the VPN and log into your device
4. Select a server and connect to it
5. Open your browser, navigate to TikTok, and explore new regional videos!

Change location on TikTok on PC

TikTok region change not working with VPN: solutions

Even best-in-class VPNs may run into several obstacles. The problems could be related to the TikTok app or device settings. For example, you may need to grant TikTok app permissions, turn off your GPS, or reinstall the VPN app. But if you’ve dealt with external factors and still find the TikTok region change is not working with a VPN, there are other fixes. Here are some troubleshooting steps you can follow:

• Change the VPN server. If your TikTok region isn't changing when using a VPN, it could be because you're connected to a country that limits TikTok or has outright banned it (India, for example). There's no need to worry – just connect to a different region and see if that helps.
• Disable GPS tracking. VPNs can’t mask your GPS location unless they offer a specific feature, like GPS spoofing. For now, you should turn off your phone's GPS tracking from its Settings menu.
• Test for IP and DNS leaks. IP addresses and DNS requests contain information about your actual location. So, check whether your IP and DNS are visible, toggle all the VPN security features, and switch the tunneling protocols if necessary.
• Delete browser cookies. Web cookies stored in your browser’s cache also contain data about your whereabouts. Clearing the cache should take care of the issue.

There’s always the possibility that your current VPN just can't bypass TikTok’s content restrictions. In that case, you’ll be better off switching to a TikTok VPN that can do its job, like NordVPN.

How to change TikTok region without a VPN

It’s possible to change the region on TikTok without using a VPN. It’s just that they’re not a surefire way to do so. Still, it’s worth a shot.

Buying a foreign SIM card

As we’ve covered before, TikTok checks your SIM card credentials for location information. So, the obvious solution is to get a mobile card from another country. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to turn off your phone’s GPS tracking feature for this to work.

1. Get an international SIM card
2. Insert the SIM card into the phone’s SIM slot
3. IOS DEVICES: delete the TikTok application and reinstall it
4. ANDROID DEVICES: delete TikTok’s app data and cache
5. Boot up TikTok, and enjoy new content

Adding a new language

TikTok has this interesting feature where the app’s language determines what content you see. Thus, if you’ve set your language to, let’s say, French or German, you’re going to see videos from those regions. All you have to do is add other relevant ones.

1. Open the TikTok application and press on Profile which you’ll find at the bottom of the screen
2. There are three lines at the top right of the screen. Press on them.
3. A new menu will appear. Pick Settings and Privacy from the list.
4. Then go to Content preferences > Video languages > Add language
5. Select the languages you want and then press Done

Following foreign content creators

The kind of people you follow on the TikTok app also affects your For You page. It also considers what kind of videos you tend to watch until the end, what content you Like, and what you decide to block from the feed.

You can get more varied content by searching for specific creators through the Search function. Alternatively, you can use the Discover tab to see what TikTok recommends today.

Where is TikTok Banned?

Although TikTok may appear harmless to the average user, it has attracted scrutiny from governments worldwide. The concerns surrounding the app go beyond its origins in China, with various nations citing issues related to security, privacy, and content regulation as reasons for restrictions. Below, you'll see all the countries that have restricted or banned TikTok:

Those living in one of the countries listed above should use the best TikTok VPNs to bypass restrictions. A reliable VPN can help you mask your location, ensuring you can continue using TikTok's content, even in regions where it's banned or restricted.

Final thoughts

TikTok region changes open up new possibilities, whether you want to access content unavailable in your area or explore world trends. While TikTok has faced its share of privacy concerns and government restrictions, there are still ways to enjoy the app without limitations. Using a VPN is the easiest and most effective solution if you're in a country where TikTok is blocked or want to see what's trending elsewhere.

NordVPN is one of the top choices for bypassing geo-restrictions, with over 7100 servers across 118 countries, letting you easily switch your virtual location. It guarantees fast, stable connections for smooth browsing and video streaming. Moreover, advanced security features protect you from being detected or blocked by anyone, including TikTok or local authorities.

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FAQ

Does a VPN change TikTok location?

Yes, a VPN does change the TikTok region. You’ll be able to change your location in seconds and benefit from enhanced security simultaneously. Plus, using a VPN doesn’t violate the platform’s Terms of Service, so you won’t have to fear that your account will be suspended.

Can you get shadowbanned on TikTok when using a VPN?

Yes, getting shadowbanned on TikTok is possible when using a VPN, although it's not very common. TikTok can detect unusual activity, such as rapid location changes or accessing the app from multiple countries within a short period. The best way to avoid this is to use a VPN service, like NordVPN, which offers encryption to hide VPN traffic, making it harder for TikTok (and others) to detect you. Also, avoid switching locations too frequently and stick to one server to minimize suspicion.

How to change region on TikTok?

You can change your TikTok country with a VPN. A reputable service like NordVPN works well with TikTok, according to my tests. It changes your IP address to a desired location, allowing you to slip through geofences. Plus, privacy measures shield your TikTok sessions from overly curious watchers.

Why can't I change my region on TikTok?

You may be unable to change TikTok's location with a VPN for several reasons. Ensure you granted TikTok app permissions, turned off your GPS and cleared in-app cache. As for a VPN, try different servers, reset your internet connection, or switch to a better provider like NordVPN or Surfshark.

How to create an international TikTok account?

To create an international TikTok account, you might need to go through a few extra steps, including getting a SIM card from the country you're interested in. The process typically involves getting a local SIM card, reinstalling TikTok, and adjusting your device's time zone settings to match that country. It can be time-consuming and tedious to do this. However, you can avoid much of this trouble using a VPN. With a VPN, you can easily change your TikTok region in seconds, no SIM card required.

How does TikTok determine location?

TikTok determines your whereabouts based on device information, such as your IP address and SIM card. However, changing your IP address is enough to outfox the platform and change your TikTok country. A service like NordVPN houses top-notch features to swiftly bypass geo-blocks and protect your privacy.

How to stop TikTok from tracking your location?

Head to your TikTok app, open settings and disable permissions to access your location. But that may not be enough. You can shake off tracking with a VPN and access more content or bypass geo-blocks. NordVPN works the best with TikTok, changing your location and preventing monitoring from snoopers.