How to watch American Netflix outside the US in 2025

To watch American Netflix outside the US, you’ll need a reliable VPN that can give you an American IP address. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) works by routing your internet traffic through a server in the US, masking your original IP address so it looks like you're browsing from within the country.

The reason Netflix libraries vary so much between countries is due to licensing agreements, regional laws, and content preferences. For example, a popular show on US Netflix might not be available in other regions because other streaming platforms bought the rights to stream it. That’s why the US Netflix library often has a broader variety of content compared to other countries.

That said, getting an American IP address via a VPN is the best way to unlock Netflix USA, but not all VPNs are suitable for the job. Some are too slow, lack privacy safeguards, or don’t have enough US servers to bypass Netflix’s strict VPN blocks. After testing over 20 providers, NordVPN stood out as the best VPN for US Netflix in 2025, offering fast speeds, a huge US server network, and consistent performance every time.

🏷️ LIMITED OFFER: Get 77% discount! 🏷️

VPNs that work with USA Netflix

Netflix libraries vary across countries because of copyright laws, licensing agreements, regional popularity, and studio demands. Because of this, some titles available in the US may not be accessible elsewhere.

A reliable VPN helps you bypass these restrictions by making Netflix think you're in another region. However, not all VPNs work – Netflix actively detects and blocks VPN IP addresses. So, if your VPN is flagged, you won’t unlock Netflix’s exclusive content, and your library may be limited to global titles.

To unblock Netflix USA, your VPN should:

• Regularly update its server IP addresses.
• Offer a large US server network.
• Provide reliable and fast speeds.
• Be compatible with different devices and operating systems.

Following these criteria, I tested and selected the best VPNs for American Netflix:

After testing 20+ VPN providers, I found that some services failed to unblock American Netflix. For instance, Hotspot Shield, Norton VPN, and VyprVPN couldn’t consistently unblock Netflix USA. CyberGhost VPN and IPVanish worked at times but struggled during peak hours.

Overall, NordVPN has the biggest US server network and consistently unblocked the US Netflix library during my testing. Surfshark, Proton VPN, TotalVPN, and Bitdefender VPN are also good options, depending on your needs. Surfshark is great for budget-conscious users with unlimited device connections, while Proton VPN offers strong security. TotalVPN and Bitdefender VPN are more affordable but lack advanced features.

Stream USA Netflix using NordVPN

How to choose the best VPN for American Netflix

When choosing the best VPN for American Netflix, there are several key factors to consider for a smooth and unrestricted streaming experience:

• Servers: a large network of US servers is essential for bypassing Netflix's geo-restrictions. More servers mean less overcrowding and better connection speeds. In this category, NordVPN and Surfshark take the lead with over 1970 and 600 US servers respectively, guaranteeing reliable access to American Netflix from outside the USA.
• Compatibility: a VPN for Netflix should be compatible with various devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and smart TVs. All five VPNs – NordVPN, Surfshark, TotalVPN, ProtonVPN, and Bitdefender VPN – offer excellent device compatibility, making them versatile options for streaming.
• Privacy: data protection is one of the main VPN usage points. That said, look for features like AES-256 encryption and no-logs policies. NordVPN stands out with its advanced security features, including Threat Protection and Double VPN, ensuring your privacy is safeguarded while watching Netflix USA.
• Speed: streaming American Netflix in HD or 4K requires fast and stable connections. NordVPN and Proton VPN excel in speed, offering lag-free streaming thanks to NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol and Proton VPN’s VPN Accelerator feature.
• Price: you shouldn’t break your bank while choosing a VPN to access Netflix US library. In this category, Surfshark is the most budget-friendly option, offering unlimited device connections for just $2.19/month, making it ideal for families or those on a budget.

How to change Netflix to American on different devices

Netflix works on many different devices, including smart TVs, laptops, gaming consoles, smartphones, and other streaming devices, like Firestick. So, to change Netflix to American content, you will need a VPN that’s compatible with your operating system. NordVPN is the best choice for this since it’s compatible with a wide range of systems. Plus, the 30-day money-back guarantee and the 7-day free trial make it an ideal risk-free option.

Keep in mind that the setup process isn’t the same across all platforms. Since some platforms, like smart TVs or gaming consoles, don’t support native VPN apps, you’ll need to use alternative installation methods.

Get US Netflix on PC and phone

To get US Netflix on your desktop or mobile device, you’ll need a VPN with fast speeds, reliable US servers, and strong unblocking capabilities. A good VPN gives you a US IP address, making it easy to unlock the American Netflix library.

Setting up a VPN is super straightforward on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Just download the app from your device’s app store or the VPN’s official website. Once installed, connect to a US server, open Netflix, log in, and you’re good to go! Here’s the process broken down:

1. Subscribe to a premium VPN. My top recommendation is NordVPN, now 77% off!
2. Download and install the VPN on your PC or phone.
3. Connect to a US server.
4. Open Netflix and log in.
5. Start streaming Netflix USA without restrictions!

Stream Netflix USA on your PC and phone with NordVPN

Get American Netflix on Smart TV

To watch Netflix USA on your Smart TV, including Android TV devices, a fast VPN with a variety of USA servers is necessary for a seamless experience. However, since some Smart TVs, like LG and Samsung, don’t support native VPN apps, setting up the VPN on your router is the easiest solution. This way, the VPN covers all devices connected to the router, including your Smart TV.

Alternatively, many Android-based TVs do have native VPN applications, which you can download directly from app marketplaces like the Google Play Store. Simply download and install the VPN app, connect to a server in the US, and stream the American Netflix library without hassle. Here’s how to get started:

1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN. For smooth streaming, I use NordVPN.
2. Install the VPN on your router or directly on your Android TV (if supported).
3. Connect to a server in USA.
4. Log into Netflix on your Smart TV.
5. Enjoy Netflix USA’s exclusive movies and shows!

Use NordVPN to watch American Netflix on your Android TV

Get American Netflix on Xbox

To stream American Netflix on your Xbox, you’ll need a VPN that works with routers or mobile hotspots. Since Xbox doesn’t support native VPN apps, the easiest way to set it up is by installing the VPN on your router. This ensures all your devices, including Xbox, are covered by the VPN connection.

Alternatively, you can share the VPN connection via a mobile hotspot or through your desktop device. Both methods will allow you to unlock Netflix USA’s exclusive content effortlessly. That said, here’s how to get American Netflix on Xbox with a VPN:

1. Get a solid VPN provider. I found NordVPN easy to install on any router.
2. Install the VPN on your router or create a VPN hotspot on your computer.
3. Connect your Xbox to the router or hotspot.
4. Open Netflix on your Xbox.
5. Start watching US-exclusive Netflix content instantly!

Get NordVPN to stream Netflix USA on your Xbox

What movies are on Netflix USA only?

The Netflix USA library is packed with exclusive movies and shows that you won’t find in the UK, Canada, Australia, or Germany. For instance, recent exclusives include Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, and the survival drama In the Heart of the Sea. Fans of thrillers can also enjoy The Watchers or immerse themselves in action-packed TV with The Equalizer.

Comedy lovers won’t want to miss The Graham Norton Show, while documentary enthusiasts can tune in to Join or Die or the award-winning When We Were Kings. If drama and romance are more your style, Girl Haunts Boy and Younger are must-sees. Meanwhile, unique picks like Saucedo, a captivating story of resilience, round out the lineup.

Ultimately, the American Netflix library still has the most new releases and unique content. The easiest way to access these exclusives is to use a reliable Netflix VPN to unlock the best of Netflix USA.

How to watch US Netflix while traveling?

Netflix’s library changes across countries due to licensing agreements, regional laws, and viewer preferences. All these factors end up in geo-restrictions, meaning that some Netflix content is only accessible in specific regions. To watch US Netflix while traveling, you’ll need to use a reliable VPN.

When you use a VPN, your internet traffic gets routed through a VPN server, where your real IP address gets replaced by a local one. For example, if you connect to a server in the US, you get assigned an American IP address, making services like Netflix think that you are accessing the service from the USA. This lets you bypass geo-restrictions to stream Netflix USA from anywhere in the world.

What’s more, a VPN can unlock other regional Netflix libraries, such as those in Japan, India, or Germany. With the right VPN, you’ll enjoy seamless streaming no matter where you are.

How to get American Netflix in UK

Netflix USA offers movies and shows that are missing from Netflix UK, like Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, and The Watchers. This is due to licensing agreements that limit where certain titles can be streamed, leaving UK users missing out on some highly sought-after shows and movies.

To watch American Netflix in the UK, you’ll need a VPN to change your location. By masking your IP address, a VPN replaces it with an American one, letting you bypass Netflix’s geo-restrictions. This tricks Netflix into thinking you are in the USA and unlocks the full American library.

So, when choosing the right VPN, focus on fast speeds, broad US server coverage, and strong encryption for enhanced privacy. With the right VPN, accessing Netflix USA will be a breeze.

Unlock American Netflix in the UK

How to get American Netflix in Canada

Some of Netflix USA’s titles, such as The Equalizer, Girl Haunts Boy, and The Graham Norton Show, aren’t available in Canada. Because of licensing restrictions and content deals, the US library is often larger than what Netflix Canada offers.

To stream American Netflix in Canada, you’ll need a reliable US VPN. Using a VPN is simple: all you need to do is download the VPN app and connect to a US server. Once that is done, your virtual location will switch to the US and you’ll unlock exclusive content from the US Netflix library.

The process only takes a few minutes, and a quality VPN ensures fast speeds and minimal buffering. Plus, this method isn’t just for Netflix USA – you can also unlock Netflix libraries in Japan, India, and beyond.

How to get American Netflix in Canada

How to get American Netflix in Australia

Australian Netflix users miss out on hit titles like When We Were Kings, Younger, and The Watchers, which are exclusive to Netflix USA. As with the UK, Canada, and other regions, licensing agreements make the American Netflix library the largest.

To unlock Netflix USA in Australia, a VPN is essential. By rerouting your internet connection through an encrypted US-based VPN server, a VPN gives you an American IP address. This lets you bypass geo-restrictions and unlock exclusive US Netflix content.

When choosing a VPN to get American Netflix in Australia, look for features like fast speeds, broad server coverage, and strong privacy tools. After installing the VPN, connect to a US server, log into Netflix, and enjoy the American Netflix library. As a bonus, a top-tier VPN service will also let you explore Netflix libraries from countries like Japan, Korea, and more!

Get the best Netflix VPN for Australia

Can't access US Netflix with a VPN: 6 quick fixes

If you can’t access or stream US Netflix with a VPN, that may happen because Netflix has detected your VPN connection. This can be caused by things like your IP address being flagged as belonging to a VPN server, outdated VPN software, or overloaded servers. That said, here are six quick steps to fix the issue:

1. Disconnect and log in first: disconnect your VPN, log into your Netflix account, then reconnect to the US servers and refresh the page. This bypasses login-related errors.
2. Switch VPN servers: try connecting to a different US server. VPNs like NordVPN offer multiple servers with different IP address pools, which minimize the chances of detection.
3. Clear cache and cookies: clear your browser’s cache and cookies. You may also use incognito mode instead to avoid location-based errors.
4. Use a different browser: try accessing American Netflix via a different browser. Sometimes, browser extensions or outdated settings can interfere with VPN functionality.
5. Use the official Netflix application: use the official Netflix application instead of streaming via browser. The app can bypass browser-related problems that cause VPN issues.
6. Update or reinstall your VPN software: make sure that your VPN app is up to date for improved detection avoidance. If it is, a simple reinstall would reset the VPN to its default settings.

With these steps, you should be able to access the American Netflix library without any further issues. However, if the problems persist, don’t hesitate to contact your VPN provider’s customer support.

Can I get American Netflix for free?

If you already have a Netflix subscription and want to stream American content for free from another country, a free VPN won’t cut it. Free VPNs lack the advanced infrastructure needed to bypass Netflix's detection systems: server and IP options are limited and often blacklisted, speeds are slower, and security features are nearly nonexistent. All of this often results in failed connections or restricted Netflix libraries.

On the other hand, premium VPNs provide the right tools to access American Netflix and also offer financially risk-free options. For example, NordVPN provides a 7-day free trial on the Google Play Store and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Besides, with over 7100 servers worldwide – 1970+ of them in the US alone – NordVPN’s advanced NordLynx technology delivers lightning-fast speeds and ensures seamless access to the Netflix US library. It’s perfect for binge-watching exclusive movies, shows, or series, or for short-term access while traveling abroad.

Use NordVPN’s free trial to stream American Netflix

Conclusion

Geo-restrictions on Netflix USA prevent many users worldwide from accessing its exclusive content. Various licensing agreements and regional policies make streaming American Netflix from abroad pretty challenging. The good news? A reliable Netflix VPN can bypass these restrictions with ease.

After testing several popular VPNs, NordVPN stood out as the best VPN for unblocking Netflix's American library. Offering almost 2000 US servers, lightning-fast speeds, and advanced abilities to bypass Netflix’s VPN detection without hiccups, it delivers a smooth streaming experience without any buffering. So whether you’re catching up on exclusive US content or exploring other regions, NordVPN has you covered.

---

---

FAQs

What's on US Netflix but not UK?

US Netflix offers exclusive content that sets it apart from the UK catalog. On American Netflix you can stream movies like the highly anticipated Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1, the rom-com series Younger, gripping dramas like In the Heart of the Sea, and documentaries like Join or Die.

Is it illegal to use a VPN to watch American Netflix?

No, it is not illegal to use a VPN to watch American Netflix. VPNs are widely used for privacy and accessing geo-restricted content. While bypassing Netflix’s regional policies may go against the platform’s policies, there’s no risk of legal action for streaming American Netflix via a VPN.

Can I use NordVPN to watch American Netflix?

Yes, you can use NordVPN to watch American Netflix. NordVPN’s SmartPlay feature optimizes your connection for streaming, providing fast, buffer-free access to Netflix’s US-exclusive content. Plus, with its secure 1970+ US-based servers, you can unlock your favorite shows and movies without interruptions.

Can I use my American Netflix in Germany?

Yes, you can use your American Netflix account in Germany, but the content library will differ. Netflix changes its catalog based on your location due to licensing restrictions. To access the US Netflix library while in Germany, you need to use a reliable streaming VPN like NordVPN. By connecting to a US server, you can stream as if you were back in the States.