The key part is to download the right VPN (because not every VPN works with Netflix!). When I rigorously tested 30+ VPNs, ExpressVPN emerged as the best choice — every server works with Netflix and speeds are blazing-fast. There’s even a 30-day money-back guarantee, so it’s easy to get a refund if you’re not happy. When I tested this myself, my refund was approved within minutes and no one hassled me to stay. The money returned to my account in just 5 days. Watch Netflix with ExpressVPN
3 Easy Steps: How to Change Your Netflix Region From Anywhere in 2023
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The Best VPNs for Changing Netflix Regions (Tested January 2023)
1. ExpressVPN — Excellent Speeds for Watching 20+ Netflix Libraries in Ultra HD
ExpressVPN has ultra-fast speeds that ensure your video quality never dips, no matter which server you’re connected to. I was highly impressed when my streaming quality loaded immediately in HD on my laptop and Ultra HD on my smart TV — even when I connected to servers on the other side of the world. In tests, every ExpressVPN server accessed Netflix on the first attempt. This includes multiple servers in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Colombia, Japan, South Korea, Spain, France, Germany, Greece, Poland, and more. It only took seconds to connect to a server and I never experienced any Netflix errors. To make it faster to access your Netflix account, you can create a Netflix shortcut within the ExpressVPN app. This feature lets you start streaming Netflix immediately after connecting to a server. You won’t have to manually visit Netflix.com on your browser or launch the Netflix app on your smartphone or tablet. If you have a smart TV or game console that doesn’t support VPNs, you can still configure it to work by setting up ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer feature. This is essentially a Smart DNS feature — while it’s more challenging, you can ask friendly 24/7 live chat team anytime to take you through each step. ExpressVPN even has a dedicated app for popular router models (Tomato or DD-WRT firmware only). This makes it easy to change Netflix locations on all devices connected to your home WiFi network. I easily installed ExpressVPN on my Linksys WRT32X router and watched Netflix on my Xbox One. Don’t take my word for it though and try ExpressVPN for uninterrupted HD streaming of any show on Netflix. I find the 1-year plan offers the greatest value for money as it comes down to just $6.67 per month. I personally think it’s well worth it for guaranteed access to my favorite shows and films on Netflix. If you’re not completely satisfied, you can always get a full refund with the 30-day money-back guarantee. The easiest way to do so is to reach out to a 24/7 live chat agent. That’s exactly what I did in my tests and the agent processed my request as soon as I confirmed my account details. I wasn’t even pressured to stay or troubleshoot any problems! The money reappeared in my bank account 4 days later. Watch Netflix with ExpressVPN
2. CyberGhost — Watch Netflix on Optimized Servers for Streaming
CyberGhost makes changing Netflix regions simple with its streaming-optimized servers. These servers are regularly maintained and refreshed by the team, which means you’re more likely to avoid the Netflix proxy error when accessing your profile. In tests, CyberGhost’s streaming servers worked perfectly with Netflix UK, France, and Germany. The video quality was smooth with minimal buffering. It’s quick and easy to connect to one of these servers as CyberGhost categorizes the servers in the For Streaming tab on the app. All you have to do is double-click to connect. In addition to a reliable connection, the optimized Netflix servers are configured for the best possible streaming speeds. I ran multiple speed tests and I was impressed to find my speeds were only 10% slower, which is a barely noticeable difference. The only downside is that CyberGhost only has a few Netflix-optimized servers in specific countries. You can test out the regular servers with Netflix, but you’re not guaranteed a working connection. For example, my team and I were successful in accessing Netflix Canada and Brazil on the regular servers, but we were blocked on a different day. I recommend you put CyberGhost to the test yourself by taking advantage of its 45-day money-back guarantee. This is more than enough time to decide if you want to commit to a subscription (the 2-year + 4 months plan is a great deal at only $2.03 per month!). If you do want a refund, it’s quick and easy over 24/7 live chat. I canceled my account after 26 days of testing and my own refund was approved without a fuss. I had the money back in 5 working days. Watch Netflix with CyberGhost
3. Private Internet Access — Huge Server Network for Global Netflix Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) has an enormous global server network for streaming Netflix. The sheer number of servers helps you avoid overcrowded connections and slowdowns while you watch your favorite programs. While PIA’s server network is concentrated in the US, there are still plenty of servers that work with other Netflix libraries. During tests, PIA worked with Netflix UK, France, Hong Kong, Brazil, Japan, and Australia. There was some buffering on all of these servers, but it wasn’t annoying enough to ruin the experience and the video quality stayed in HD. The large server network may seem intimidating, but you’ll easily navigate the app. You can find the fastest server connection by clicking Choose Automatically or selecting a country with the lowest ping. Unfortunately, my speeds significantly slowed down on servers far away. You may have to deal with minor lagging or poor resolution if you’re connecting to a server on the other side of the country (or the world). If you have slower internet speeds at home, I suggest you consider a faster VPN like ExpressVPN or CyberGhost. Alternatively, you can try PIA risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee. You can choose between a range of short and long-term plans, although the best-value subscription price is $2.03 per month on the 2-year + 4 months plan. If PIA doesn’t meet your expectations, you can get a refund in the first 30 days. When I tested this, I said I wasn’t interested in the service anymore and the customer support agent approved my refund over 24/7 live chat. I received my money back through PayPal that same week. Watch Netflix with Private Internet Access
4. NordVPN — Premium VPN With Cheap Prices on Long-Term Plans
NordVPN is one of the best VPNs on the market — and you can get super cheap prices when you sign up for a long-term subscription. One thing to note, however, is that when it’s time to renew your subscription, prices do increase quite significantly. I did, however, have issues with using NordVPN’s native Fire TV app. Although it worked and unblocked some streaming services, it sometimes had issues unblocking Netflix US and kept crashing. I also found that NordVPN’s user interface for desktop devices was less user-friendly than ExpressVPN and CyberGhost. NordVPN has the following security and privacy features:
AES 256-bit encryptionA kill switch that cuts your internet access if your connection to a VPN server drops suddenlyBuilt-in ad and malware blocker, so you don’t need a third-party ad blockerFully audited no-logs policy (audited by PwC) – NordVPN doesn’t store any personal or identifying data while you’re connected to the VPN
In addition, NordVPN includes Threat Protection that protects you from viruses, infected websites, and trackers – and it works whenever you have the NordVPN app open, even if you’re not connected to a VPN server. You can stream, torrent, and browse for free for up to 30 days with NordVPN’s money-back guarantee. It has plans that cost as little as $3.69 per month. To ensure that you’ll really get your money back, I tested NordVPN’s money-back guarantee. At first, the support team tried to give me an extended trial period — but they initiated my refund right away after I told them I wasn’t interested in the extension. I got my money back in 6 business days. NordVPN works on: Windows, Mac OS, Android, iOS, Windows Phone, Chromebook, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Fire Stick, and Android TV
5. Surfshark — Best Value for Money with Unlimited Device Connections and Fast Speeds
Surfshark offers the best value for money out of every premium VPN on the market. You can connect an unlimited number of devices with a single subscription (which means you can connect your entire family and even friends!). I tested Surfshark’s unlimited connections on 2 PCs, 2 phones, a Fire Stick 4K, and an iPad. My connection remained reliable on all 6 devices. Even while I was actively streaming on all my devices, my average speed was 112 Mbps — fast enough for UltraHD quality. When I saw the price of this service, I thought it couldn’t possibly have top-grade security features for such a low price, but I was pleasantly surprised. Surfshark has the following security and privacy features:
AES 256-bit encryption on all devices, with ChaCha encryption available for Android usersWireguard VPN protocol enabled by defaultDiskless, RAM-only servers to protect your privacy (no data can be physically extracted from any servers)Kill switch (although this isn’t enabled by default)IP and DNS leak protection
Surfshark offers two-factor authentication (2FA) on your account. This feature requires you to enter an extra code before you can log in to ensure that only you (and those you share your account with) can access your account. While Surfshark does have slightly fewer global servers than rivals such as CyberGhost and PIA, I didn’t experience any issues during my tests. I easily connected fast working servers every time, and I had excellent speeds for streaming Netflix in Ultra HD, downloading torrents, and browsing the internet. You can try Surfshark for yourself with the 30-day money-back guarantee. It has plans that cost as little as $2.05. Requesting a refund is easy with Surfshark’s live chat feature. Although the support team asked why I wanted to cancel my subscription, I had no problem getting my money back (and it only took 4 days!). Surfshark works on: Windows, Mac OS, Android, iOS, Linux, Fire Stick, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, Android TV, Kodi, and selected routers
Easy Comparison Table: Best VPNs for Any Netflix Region
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Step-By-Step Guide: How to Change Netflix Regions on Any Device
How to Change Netflix Region on iOS and Android
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How to Change Netflix Region on Your Router
Although most smart TVs and gaming consoles don’t support VPN software, you can easily change Netflix locations when you install a VPN on your router. This way, you’ll be able to watch your favorite Netflix libraries on your Xbox, Playstation, Roku, Samsung Smart TV, and any other WiFi-connected device in your home. ExpressVPN is compatible with a range of routers, including Asus, Linksys, Netgear, D-Link, Netduma, Sabai, and TP-Link. It also comes with a dedicated router app, which makes it a lot easier to set up. The above instructions will differ depending on your router’s brand, so you can also check out ExpressVPN’s step-by-step guides for personalized instructions. Watch Netflix with ExpressVPN
How I Tested and Ranked the Best VPNs for Netflix
I made sure that the top VPNs in the article meet the criteria below:
Works with global Netflix — A quality VPN should have large pools of IP addresses, so it’s more difficult for Netflix to flag and blacklist the servers. Excellent streaming speeds — So you can stream Netflix in HD and without lag. User-friendly apps — The best VPNs allow you to easily change Netflix regions on your PC, Mac, smartphone, router, and even gaming consoles and smart TVs. Great value for money — Each VPN is packed with features so you can get the most out of your Netflix subscription, whether you want a VPN with short-term plans or you’re looking for a long-term subscription. 24/7 customer support — I looked for VPNs with responsive and helpful support any time of day. Money-back guarantee — This ensures you can get a VPN, put it to the test, and get a refund if you’re not fully satisfied.
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Can I use a free VPN to change my Netflix region?
The short answer is yes. There are a few decent free VPNs that work with Netflix — however, you’ll have to sacrifice other benefits in return for the free service. The most frustrating limitation is that free VPNs cap your data usage and bandwidth. During my tests, these restrictions meant I could only watch 2 episodes of Rick and Morty with an appalling streaming quality. I had to wait for a month before my free data was renewed. In addition, you’re more likely to be blocked with Netflix’s proxy error. Free VPNs don’t have the resources to keep up with Netflix’s bans. It’s expensive to run a server network and free VPNs can only afford to operate a limited number of servers in a few countries, meaning the pool of IP addresses is tiny. The shadiest free VPNs of all will even log and sell your private data to make a profit. Unfortunately, this includes your location, browsing history, and even identifying information like your email address and full name. This puts you at direct risk of phishing scams and even identity theft. If you ask me, it’s not worth the suffering simply to access your Netflix account from abroad. However, if you do want a free option, CyberGhost has a generous 45-day money-back guarantee that you can use like a free trial. You do need to pay upfront but you’ll get your money back as long as you ask within 45 days. To get a refund, just speak to a customer support agent over 24/7 live chat.
Why does Netflix restrict content to specific countries?
This is due to international copyright laws and licensing agreements for certain Netflix programs. Regardless of where you set up your account, Netflix checks your IP address and determines which library you’re eligible to view. I find this frustrating because when I travel abroad, Netflix automatically changes which shows I can watch — and I miss out on programs that I rightfully paid for. However, a VPN can change an IP address as it reroutes internet traffic through another country. For example, when I’m traveling outside the US, I’ll connect to a VPN’s US server so Netflix only sees my US IP address (not my foreign IP address).
Is it legal to change Netflix regions?
It depends. While changing Netflix regions isn’t a criminal offense, it does break Netflix’s Terms and Conditions to use a VPN to change your Netflix region. That’s because Netflix has to abide by its copyright agreements. My team and I don’t condone breaking any laws or committing crimes. However, there has been no record of Netflix actively chasing anyone for streaming its content with a VPN to date. In the worst-case scenario, you’ll find yourself blocked with a proxy error and won’t be able to watch anything until you’re back home.
Will Netflix block my account for using a VPN?
No. A VPN is an essential tool for online privacy. Netflix won’t block your account when you use a VPN, although it might block you from streaming by displaying a Netflix error.
How do I fix the Netflix proxy error?
If you’re seeing the below error message, then Netflix is blocking you as it doesn’t want you to change your Netflix region with a VPN. Netflix is constantly blacklisting VPN servers and IP addresses. Luckily, there are some easy steps you can take to solve the issue: You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again. For more help, visit netflix.com/proxy.
Switch VPN servers. Make sure the VPN is up to date. Clear the cache and cookies on your browser or Netflix app. Contact your VPN and ask for recommended servers that work with Netflix.
Can I change Netflix regions with a proxy?
I advise against it. Not only is it tricky to find a proxy that works with Netflix, but you can’t easily change your Netflix region. Proxies generally have servers in very few countries, so you probably can’t access your local library due to the lack of available IP addresses. DNS proxies don’t encrypt your traffic either, which leaves your real IP address open to anyone who might be watching. This includes hackers, advertisers, and other potential ymail iocus third parties.
What are the best countries for Netflix?
The US, UK, and Canada have the biggest Netflix libraries, so you’ll definitely miss out if you’re from those countries and traveling abroad. It doesn’t matter if your payment is linked to that country as the Netflix catalog changes based on your current location. Luckily, you don’t have to lose access to your favorite exclusive Netflix shows and movies just because you’re temporarily overseas. If you use ExpressVPN to access your Netflix account from abroad, you’ll be able to keep up with your regular content no matter where you travel. Watch Netflix with ExpressVPN
Keep Up With Your Favorite Netflix TV Shows and Movies
Traveling shouldn’t stop you from watching your favorite shows and movies, but you may lose even your downloaded episodes when you go abroad. To access your usual local Netflix library, you need to download a quality VPN. Using a VPN will mask your IP address and change your virtual location so Netflix won’t see where you’re connecting from. After testing 30+ VPNs, I found that ExpressVPN is the top choice for changing your Netflix region. In tests, I was impressed with the excellent speeds on its 3000+ global servers. Better still, I never had to switch servers until I found one that worked with Netflix — every server connected on the first attempt. I think ExpressVPN is brilliant for watching Netflix, but it’s just as important to decide for yourself. ExpressVPN comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so it’s risk-free to test it on your own device. If you’re not completely satisfied, you can simply ask for your money back.
