Whether you’re traveling around the world or moving abroad, you want to be able to watch your favorite shows on Netflix. However, you don’t get to watch the same films or series in every country. It is primarily due to legal issues and various licensing agreements.
The best way to go around this is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). This technology masks your actual IP address and provides you with a new one from your chosen country. That way, you can stream many Netflix libraries from anywhere. We’ll tell you how to change the Netflix region and access multiple libraries in a few simple steps.
How to change Netflix region with a VPN
- Download and install your chosen VPN. We recommend NordVPN, our #1 service
- Install the VPN on the device of your choice
- Connect to a server in a foreign country
- Start streaming anything you want!
Best VPN to change your region on Netflix: shortlist
- The best VPN for Netflix9.6
- Netflix VPN with unlimited connections9.3
- All-rounder VPN for changing Netflix location9.1
Why do you need a VPN to change the Netflix region?
As unfair as it is, Netflix does not offer the same content libraries to all regions. People in the US see a vastly different movie & show selection than those who live in the UK, Argentina, Japan, etc. So, if you want to watch some local French TV series, you can blame licensing & distribution laws for not being able to.
Netflix VPNs combat this issue with a single yet highly efficient method. Once you connect to a server, your real IP address gets hidden under a new one. This new IP corresponds with the country the connection point is based in, making it look like you’re from that location. And when Netflix recognizes this “fake” address, it gives you the appropriate video library.
Best VPNs to change the region on Netflix: overview
Not every service is cut out for the job, so you’ll need a robust VPN. These usually include essential VPN security features and a server network that spans the globe. And since we want a smooth streaming experience unhindered by lag, the latest tunneling protocols are mandatory.
We also took into account broad device compatibility since Netflix is available on a wide range of machines. Having multiple simultaneous connections is also a nice touch. It lets the whole household enjoy the content they want separately. Any additional streaming-oriented perks are a nice touch.
1. NordVPN – top VPN to change Netflix region quickly
60
5700
24/7 live chat, Email
- The fastest service
- SmartPlay DNS feature
- Independently-audited and secure
- Only 6 simultaneous connections
Change your Netflix country in just a few clicks with NordVPN. The provider operates from privacy-friendly Panama, offers a robust toolkit, and is one of the fastest VPNs in the industry. Now add 6 simultaneous connections and the option to manually install it on your router, and the whole household can enjoy any foreign content library they want.
The massive network of 5700+ RAM-only servers across 60+ countries spans all continents, so no region is off-limits. And with the in-house NordLynx tunneling protocol under the belt, your favorite TV shows won’t suffer from endless buffering. Want to use the service for other online activities? Utilize hardware dedicated to P2P, obfuscation, double encryption, etc.
Now, Netflix isn’t the only platform NordVPN is useful for. Subscribers have no issues unlocking BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Amazon Video Prime, and plenty of other streaming services. And if you want to peruse their libraries on devices that don’t support VPN technology, no worries. The SmartPlay feature is there to bypass any regional blocks on such machines.
Get this great VPN for only $3.29/month by applying a NordVPN discount code. Of course, you can also test it beforehand with the free 7-day trial via the Google Play Store. And if you decide to subscribe, know there’s no risk, thanks to the 30-day money-back guarantee.
For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark VPN – Netflix VPN with largest country coverage
100
3200
24/7 live chat, FAQ
- No device limit
- Smart DNS feature
- Plenty of features for a low price
- Unaudited no-logs policy
Another great service you shouldn’t overlook is Surfshark VPN. It has the most extensive country coverage, includes plenty of neat perks, and is highly affordable to boot. The best thing about the service is the unlimited simultaneous connections, which allow you to secure virtually everything you own.
You’ll get almost every Netflix library out there with a fleet of 3200+ RAM-only servers in 100+ countries. And the streaming experience will be extra smooth and lag-free, thanks to the next-gen WireGuard tunneling protocol. We’re sure Software Defined Networking (SDN), introduced with the Nexus update, also plays a part in that.
Get any content library you want on Netflix and other streaming platforms on any device with Smart DNS. And if P2P file sharing is more of your thing, it won’t be a problem – Surfshark supports torrenting in all locations. Finally, subscribers benefit from features such as CleanWeb, Camouflage and NoBorders modes, Bypasser, MultiHop, etc.
$2.30/month, after using a Surfshark VPN coupon, is not much to pay to change your Netflix country whenever you want to. Taking it out for a spin is also an option with the 7-day free trial version, available on the Google Play and Apple App stores. And when you do commit, rest easy with the 30-day money-back guarantee.
For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.
3. PrivateVPN – affordable & efficient VPN to change country on Netflix
63
200
24/7 live chat
- Great price-to-feature ratio
- Unblocks multiple Netflix libraries
- Owns all hardware
- macOS and iOS have fewer features
As the name suggests, PrivateVPN keeps you anonymous during all online ventures. Whether getting another Netflix library or accessing blocked sites, the necessary VPN features work as intended. And with 10 simultaneous connections to boot, you can secure more than just your computer.
200+ servers across 63+ countries might not seem like much, but the network will surprise you with optimal performance. It can be attributed to two things – the trusted OpenVPN protocol and High Quality Network (HQN). The latter, bought straight from the source, ensures low latency no matter what server you’re connected to.
Hulu, Channel 4, Sky Sports, and plenty of other streaming services are within your grasp with PrivateVPN. Those with torrenting needs will be happy to find P2P-oriented perks, such as port forwarding and SOCKS5 proxies. And if you live in an internet-restrictive country, bypass all pesky firewalls easily with Stealth VPN.
Coming at $2.00/month, this provider is more than enough for all Netflix needs. Just don’t forget to utilize a PrivateVPN code before finalizing the purchase. And the 30-day money-back guarantee is there in case you need it. But it’s unlikely you will, not after taking advantage of the 7-day free trial.
For a deeper investigation of PrivateVPN, read our PrivateVPN review.
4. Atlas VPN – Netflix VPN with a free version
42
1000
Email, tickets, FAQ
- Solid free version
- WireGuard for amazing speeds
- Limitless connections
- No router firmware
As shown by Atlas VPN, robust services don’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Despite being one of the cheapest VPNs, the provider comes with essential security features, great performance, and unlimited simultaneous connections. The cherry on top is the free version, which includes 3 server locations and a generous 5 GB/month data cap.
Get almost any foreign Netflix library with a network of 1000+ servers in 42+ countries. You can expect smooth HD video quality, too, with the reliable WireGuard tunneling protocol. And if that’s not enough, subscribers are welcome to utilize streaming-optimized hardware.
Besides unlocking multiple entertainment platforms, Atlas VPN also ensures enhanced security. Users benefit from an ad & malware blocker (SafeBrowse), double VPN (MultiHop+), split tunneling, and a Data Breach Monitor. You can even become virtually untraceable with SafeSwap servers.
Access anything on the web for only $1.82/month after using an Atlas VPN coupon. And while the 30-day money-back guarantee protects the purchase, there’s no need to subscribe right away. The free version, albeit limited, serves its purpose well.
For a deeper investigation of Atlas VPN, read our Atlas VPN review.
5. Proton VPN – Swiss-based VPN for changing the Netflix region
67
2970
Email, knowledge base
- VPN Accelerator for best speed
- Security-focused features
- Independently-audited no-logs policy
- No live chat support
Proton VPN is a security powerhouse that doesn’t skimp on entertainment. The provider adheres to an independently-audited no-logs policy, offers open-source apps, and effectively hides users from surveillance. Freely use the 10 simultaneous connections to protect your devices whilst unblocking various streaming platforms.
The fleet of 2970+ servers in 67+ countries covers all major regions for a plethora of Netflix libraries. And to ensure the video experience remains buffer-free, switch to the WireGuard tunneling protocol. It, coupled with VPN Accelerator, make connections extra stable and incredibly fast.
Subscribers benefit from many features. Netshield defeats malware, ads, and user trackers, while Secure Core routes your traffic via two VPN servers instead of one for extra anonymity. Then there’s the Stealth protocol, incredibly useful for bypassing Deep Packet Inspection (DPI).
Pay just $4.99/month (with a Proton VPN discount code) and change your Netflix region today. The service even has a great free version with unlimited bandwidth, 3 countries, and over 140+ servers. If it’s not enough, simply switch to premium. You can always get a refund, thanks to the 30-day money-back guarantee.
For a deeper investigation of Proton VPN, read our Proton VPN review.
Best VPNs for changing Netflix region: comparison
Provider | NordVPN | Surfshark | PrivateVPN | Atlas VPN | Proton VPN |
Country count | 60+ | 100+ | 63+ | 42 | 67 |
Server count | 5700 | 3200 | 200 | 1000 | 2970 |
Simultaneous connections | 6 | Unlimited | 10 | Unlimited | 10 |
Price | $3.29/month | $2.30/month | $2.00/month | $1.82/month | $4.99/month |
Features | Threat Protection, Double VPN, split tunneling, Tor Over VPN, obfuscated servers, SmartPlay | CleanWeb, MultiHop, Bypasser, Camouflage & NoBorders modes, GPS spoofing, Smart DNS | Stealth VPN, Application Guard, port forwarding, SOCKS5 proxies | SafeBrowse, MultiHop+, split tunneling, SafeSwap servers, Data Breach Monitor | Netshield, Secure Core, split tunneling, Tor Over VPN, Stealth protocol, port forwarding, VPN Accelerator |
Can also unblock | Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Disney+, more | Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Disney+, more | Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Disney+, more | Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Disney+, more | Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Disney+, more |
How we selected VPNs for changing Netflix location
Many providers claim their services can unblock any Netflix library you want, but practice proves that’s not always the case. It’s important for the VPN to meet certain criteria if you don’t want to run into issues:
- Global presence. Having a massive server network is beneficial in two ways. It guarantees a large variety of potential foreign content, for one. Second, it ensures that you have plenty of connection points near you, which boosts speeds.
- Optimal performance. Stable and speedy connectivity is made possible with the latest tunneling protocols like WireGuard. But not every VPN implements it the same way, creating noticeable performance differences. Because of that, we highly recommend checking what you’re getting with a VPN speed test tool.
- Broad compatibility. Like many other streaming platforms, Netflix is available on a wide variety of devices, from PCs to Smart TVs and even consoles. Thus, bonus points go to those VPNs that also support the same machines. And if that’s not the case, the service should at least offer manual VPN configuration on routers.
- Ensured security & privacy. Your chosen provider shouldn’t be participating in user surveillance itself, so check whether they adhere to a no-logs policy. AES-256 encryption, IP & DNS leak protection, and a kill switch are also mandatory as they shield you from overall online monitoring.
- Additional perks. VPN services usually offer extra features for different needs. These include but are not limited to ad & malware blockers, split tunneling, obfuscation, Stealth VPN, etc. Always check the complete feature list to see if they include perks you’ll actually put to good use.
- Affordability. Paying more doesn’t necessarily mean getting a better quality product. Don’t be afraid to try a cheaper service if it has everything you want and more. And if they don’t meet your expectations, most (if not all) come with money-back guarantees.
How to change your Netflix region on different devices
While the instructions on changing the Netflix region are similar on all devices, we still decided to offer step-by-step guides for the most popular operating systems.
Change Netflix country on Android
- Subscribe to a robust VPN service. Our recommendation is NordVPN, the best VPN in the industry
- Download the client from the Google Play Store and install it
- Choose your desired server and connect to it
- Launch Netflix and start streaming!
Change Netflix country on iPhone
- Sign up for a VPN with global coverage. You can never go wrong with NordVPN, which has servers on all continents
- Download the VPN from the Apple App Store and install it
- Choose a server in the country that suits your needs the best
- Open Netflix and begin watching!
Change Netflix country on Smart TV
- Select a router-compatible VPN. You can quickly & easily set up NordVPN on a wide range of devices
- Download the VPN and manually configure it on your router
- Scroll to your desired server and click Connect
- Reconnect your Smart TV to the newly-secured network
- Boot up Netflix and watch anything you want!
Change Netflix country on Roku
- Get a reliable VPN. NordVPN unblocks Netflix and other streaming platforms in just a few clicks
- Download the client and set it up on your router
- Connect to the server of your choice
- Reboot your Roku device and connect it to the now secure network
- Peruse any foreign Netflix library your heart desires!
Change Netflix country on PS and Xbox
- Purchase a VPN that supports routers. We recommend NordVPN, now 63% off
- Configure your home router with a VPN connection
- Pick a server in your desired location
- Connect your PlayStation or Xbox to the VPN-enabled router network
- Access new Netflix content on your PS or Xbox!
Change Netflix country on FireStick
- Subscribe to a Fire TV Stick-compatible VPN. NordVPN offers a dedicated application for FireStick devices
- Set up the VPN on your router
- Select a server you want to connect to
- Connect your Amazon Fire Stick to the newly-secured network
- Stream any foreign TV show or movie on Netflix!
How to change the Netflix region without VPN?
Of course, there are alternatives when it comes to changing your country on Netflix. Just keep in mind that not all these methods are as effective as using a VPN.
- Proxies. These change your IP address to another one, allowing you to enter country-specific content. The problem is that proxies don’t encrypt internet traffic, which could be used to detect your actual location. Hence, you might not always unblock other Netflix libraries.
- Tor browser. It completely masks your online identity and is one of the most private browsers out there. But while it successfully unblocks Netflix, you won’t be able to get regional TV shows and movies since you can’t pick locations. Plus, it’s quite sluggish, so videos will lag.
- Smart DNS. Some VPN providers include a form of this feature as it unlocks access to various websites and streaming services. On its own, this option doesn’t mask your traffic nor IP address, thus changing your Netflix country will be tricky.
Why is my VPN not changing my Netflix region?
Alas, VPNs aren’t perfect, and it isn’t unusual to run into some issues from time to time. Especially if it’s your first time using this technology. No need to panic just yet – stay calm and do some troubleshooting instead.
- Change server. You’ll have trouble accessing different Netflix content if the server is overcrowded or down for maintenance. And since the platform doesn’t look kindly upon VPNs, you might have picked an IP address that is blocked. The solution is simple – connect to another server.
- Check for IP & DNS leaks. If your IP address or DNS requests are visible, Netflix detects them and bars you from regional content. We suggest testing whether this is the case, cycling through the available VPN tunneling protocols, and turning on all security features.
- Clear web cookies. Those changing their Netflix region on PC must take an extra step and clear their browser’s web cookies from the cache. These contain information about your actual location.
- Reinstall TAP drivers. Installing multiple different VPNs on your router could’ve corrupted these drivers. It won’t hurt to delete the current ones and install a fresh batch.
- Contact customer support. Of course, the problem might be more technical and out of your control. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with your VPN provider’s support for answers and further troubleshooting steps.
None of the above helped? Maybe it’s time to switch to a reliable VPN service capable of changing the Netflix country without causing a headache.
What does the Netflix proxy error mean?
If Netflix detects that you’re using a proxy or a VPN, it will display this error message. If you’re OK with your local library, simply shut down the service that’s been causing this.
However, for accessing a library in another country, use a VPN that’s good at avoiding Netflix geo-blocking. You can find the list above in the article.
I’m still getting the proxy error
You may want to contact its customer support if you can’t unblock Netflix with a reliable VPN service. They should know the correct server in each country. However, sometimes the problem can be on your side. In such case:
- Disable location services on your browser or device
- Clean your browser’s temporary files, cookies, and cache
- Disable IPv6 on your device
- On Windows, open the command prompt and flush the DNS cache with ipconfig /flushdns
If none of that helps, contact your customer support again.
Countries with the largest Netflix library
Your options on what shows or films to watch on Netflix depend on your location. Say you’ve been living in the US your whole life, and recently you had to relocate to Australia for work. Chances are, you won’t be able to watch the same content.
In this case, you can use a VPN to virtually move back to the US or any other country that has your favorite movies and TV shows in its Netflix catalogs. In some places, you can even get Netflix cheaper. Anyways, let’s see which region is the best for Netflix.
Here is the list of the Top 10 countries with the biggest Netflix libraries:
Country | Number of movies and TV shows |
Slovakia | 7,436 |
Bulgaria | 7,162 |
Lithuania | 6,938 |
Estonia | 6,932 |
Latvia | 6,925 |
Iceland | 6,886 |
UK | 6,710 |
Ireland | 6,546 |
Philippines | 6,431 |
Singapore | 6,427 |
Can I use a free VPN to change the region on Netflix?
To be fair, only some free VPNs can unblock Netflix. That’s because the provider needs to invest in new servers and IPs to allow choosing multiple regions. Therefore you shouldn’t be surprised that they let you pick from just a few countries. Still, you shouldn’t jump to a costless service for several reasons:
- Bandwidth limit. High-quality streaming means downloading many GBs, and such traffic costs money. That’s why you’ll get either a daily or a monthly limit (5 GB/month tops) that won’t be enough to follow your beloved series in HD unless you use more than a few providers.
- Slower speeds. If that wasn’t enough, expect slower speeds with a free VPN for Netflix. While the performance can be enough for streaming in HD, choosing a faraway country can complicate things due to latency.
- Lack of features. Such services tend not to include even the most basic protection features like encryption or IP & DNS leak protection. Thus, you can forget about such perks as Smart DNS, split tunneling, 24/7 live chat, etc.
Besides the obvious performance and unblocking issues, utilizing “free” VPN services is unsafe. Many providers are notorious for extensively logging user data and then selling it to various third parties. Some even go as far as injecting malware into their clients to collect even more info.
Avoid these pitfalls by option for reliable VPNs with trial versions instead. Yes, you can only use them for a limited time, but at least you’ll be completely protected and have access to the full feature list. And when one trial ends, you can always start a new one with a different provider.
Final thoughts
Netflix is such a popular streaming platform for a good reason. But the fact that some content is only available in certain regions, understandably, grinds the gears of most of its userbase.
The great news is that you can change your Netflix country with a VPN. This technology achieves it by masking your IP address and encrypting all internet traffic. Plus, it secures all your online activities, which is a nice touch.
Do you know any other ways to change the region on Netflix? Lets us know in the comments below!
You may also like to read:
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FAQ
How to change country on Netflix?
Unfortunately, like most streaming platforms, Netflix works only in your country due to legal reasons. However, you can change your virtual location with a VPN. Some services offer more than a hundred locations to choose from, meaning that your show will be available in one of them.
Can I change my Netflix region on the phone?
Once again, Netflix doesn’t allow changing the region on any device. That being said, a VPN app for Android or iOS can do that easily. Of course, not all services are good at unblocking Netflix, so we advise choosing one from our Best VPNs for Netflix in 2023.
How do I change my Netflix UK to the US?
You can’t do that without moving to the US unless you use a VPN. The best services will help you unblock Netflix in dozens of countries. We recommend NordVPN, our #1 provider for streaming.
I live outside of Japan. Can I access its Netflix library?
Netflix has separate libraries for each country. However, there’s a way to avoid such geo-block. All you have to do is get a reliable VPN for Netflix, connect to a server in Japan and start streaming. If that doesn’t work, just try another server, and that should do the trick.
Is it legal to change the Netflix region?
It’s perfectly legal to change your Netflix region. You might run into some issues only if you’re using a VPN in a country where this technology is restricted, like China or Russia. Double-check whether VPNs are legal in your location before doing anything.
Can I use my Netflix account in another country?
Yes, you can use your Netflix account while traveling. The TV shows and movies available in the library will change accordingly to match the country you’re currently located in.
How do I change my Netflix region without a VPN?
There are several ways to change your Netflix country without a VPN. Just keep in mind that they are not as effective as using a VPN service. Plus, they don’t offer enhanced security & anonymity.
I’ve never thought, that I’ll have to read an article on how to change netflix region . Anyways, thanks . I’ll try Netflix Japan.