How to change Netflix region

Even though Netflix houses hundreds of movies and popular TV series, users often complain that they have nothing left to watch. If you're one of them, it's time to get a high-quality VPN and explore international Netflix libraries.

All Netflix libraries are geo-restricted. If you're in the US, your Netflix library will differ from those in other countries, like Japan or South Korea. To get around this, you need a VPN to give you a new IP from the target countries. This way, you can watch Netflix shows and movies previously unavailable in your region – without ever leaving your living room.

However, Netflix wants to prevent users from using VPNs. For this reason, only the most secure and well-performing services can unblock the streaming platform. So we decided to test which providers can unblock the most protected libraries, like US and Japan, has efficient speeds and necessary streaming features. Continue reading to learn how to change the Netflix region and grab one of our best Netflix VPNs.

How to change Netflix region with a VPN?

1. Log in or register a Netflix account.
2. Download and install a VPN that can change the Netflix region. We recommend NordVPN, now 68% OFF!
3. Sign up for your VPN service on the device you’ll be watching Netflix on.
4. Connect VPN to the server in a country with the Netflix content you want to watch.
5. Open Netflix and you’ll be redirected to the country site for the selected server.

Why do you need a VPN to change Netflix region?

You probably already know that a reputable VPN is a must when you're traveling abroad and want to access your Netflix account. But it could be just as useful in your home country too. The reason is that Netflix has more than one library. Each of them is different in every country. For reference, Netflix is available in over 190 countries. So, if you're sticking only to the US, you're missing out.

For example, South Korea's library has the highest number of academy award-winning movies, with a total of 109 titles. That's 49 more than in the US library. Unfortunately, due to copyright laws and royalties, Netflix bans other users from watching the content. If you don't use a Netflix VPN, you'll end up with an error message like this:

You can avoid this by getting a reliable VPN with servers in South Korea and other Netflix countries. By doing so, you’ll appear as if you are in the country, hiding your actual location. You’ll also get the benefit of data encryption. This keeps your browsing traffic hidden from third parties and hackers.

Access any Netflix library with NordVPN

If you want to change the Netflix region, NordVPN can help. During our tests, it successfully unblocked Netflix US, UK, Canada, Japan, and even South Korea.

cybernews® score

4.9 /5

• Next-generation security
• Massive server fleet
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Visit NordVPN

Best VPNs for changing Netflix region

Not all VPNs have the necessary capabilities to help you access a different Netflix library. According to our thorough research, these VPNs are best for changing Netflix regions, as they run large server fleets, retain fast speeds, maintain video quality in full HD, and, most importantly, unlock a variety of Netflix libraries.

1. NordVPN – overall best VPN to change Netflix location

Get NordVPN

NordVPN is the best VPN option when you need a simple and easy option to the Netflix region. It has a large global server network with 5,800 servers across 60 countries. NordVPN provides reliable access to Netflix US, UK, Canada, Japan, and even South Korea without any issues.

NordVPN has no issues unlocking other streaming platforms such as BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and others.

Since NordVPN uses an in-house tunnel – NordLynx, it offers super speedy connections that can easily provide smooth, buffer-free streaming of HD and even 4K content. It also offers an obfuscation feature to hide your VPN activity and remain undetected. If you're keen to try it, don't forget to check NordVPN deals for the best prices.

NordVPN is available on all major OS, as well as Fire TV and Android TV. Additionally, it offers a SmartPlay feature that allows you to connect VPN on devices that don't support it.

For more information, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark VPN – cheapest VPN to change Netflix region

Get Surfshark

Surfshark’s VPN service is an excellent way to change Netflix country. It has more than 3,200 servers across 100 countries and works with 30 different Netflix libraries. A quick test by our experts showed that you can easily access Netflix UK, US, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and other popular regions.

On most of the locations we’ve tested, Surfshark managed to deliver crisp 1080p video with no lags or latency issues. You can also use this VPN for Amazon Prime, Hulu, and other services.

Surfshark is just as fast as its competitors, has comprehensive security features, and offers a Smart DNS feature so you can bypass content restrictions and watch Netflix not just on your desktop or mobile but also on smart TVs, gaming consoles, and more.

But the selling point that makes Surfshark VPN stand out is its unlimited simultaneous connections. This lets your whole family or group of friends use a single Surfshark account.

For more information, read our Surfshark VPN review.

3. IPVanish – change Netflix region on unlimited devices

Visit IPVanish

IPVanish is a great VPN to help you change your Netflix location. It even allows unlimited connections to unblock global Netflix libraries on all your devices. For that, you get to choose from over 2,200 servers in 52 locations.

The UK, US, and Canadian libraries were a breeze. We’ve discovered minor issues when connecting to Japan, with rare cut-offs and a lack of exclusive content.

In addition to Netflix, this VPN works with other streaming services like BBC iPlayer or YouTube. Regarding speeds, IPVanish supports the WireGuard tunneling protocol and shows pretty fast services during our tests.

The subscription prices start from $2.99/month, and there are great IPVanish deals. Annual plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can get a full refund in case you change your mind.

Find out more about this provider in our full IPVanish review.

4. ExpressVPN – fast Netflix VPN

Visit ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a very fast VPN for unblocking Netflix, letting you watch content without buffering issues. Plus, since the VPN has over 3,000 servers distributed across 94 countries.

We managed to access 4 out of 5 Netflix libraries that we tested. Even when testing performance, we detected no huge speed drops that would affect your streaming experience. Aside from Netflix, you can use ExpressVPN to unblock other streaming services. This includes HBO Max, Hulu, Disney Plus, and more.

ExpressVPN prices start from $6.67/month. While the price is on the higher side, you can share the service with 8 other people. There’s a 30-day money-back guarantee available as well.

You can learn more about this provider in our ExpressVPN review.

5. CyberGhost – VPN with the most servers to use for Netflix

Visit CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost is one of the best ways to watch Netflix from other countries, as it provides you with servers in 9,600 countries. You can even use the VPN on up to 7 of your devices (or share it with others).

CyberGhost unblocked all libraries we tested it with except for South Korea. CyberGhost had little to no buffering issues no matter which library we viewed.

If you’re subscribed to more than just Netflix, CyberGhost is capable of unlocking more platforms. With this VPN, you’ll bypass geo-restrictions on HBO Max, Amazon Prime video, BBC iPlayer, and more.

As for the prices, CyberGhost goes as low as $2.19/month for 7 devices. A generous 45-day money-back guarantee is available as well.

Find out more in our CyberGhost review.

How we tested VPNs for changing the Netflix region

To come up with the top 5 VPNs for switching the Netflix region, we had to complete tests for 32 VPNs overall. The process would have been valueless if we didn’t follow these criteria:

• Unblocking capabilities. First of all, we had to find out if an examined VPN would work with Netflix at all, giving it to unblock the closest and furthest countries’ catalogs. We selected those providers that gave us access to the most or the best Netflix catalogs.
• Persistency. Netflix is known for vigilant VPN usage monitoring. That’s why we ensured that a selected VPN could quickly retrieve your access to the streaming service after Netflix blocks one of its IPs.
• Performance. We played numerous TV series episodes and films on different Netflix libraries to find out if a tested VPN could maintain a lag-free experience and not interfere with the video quality.
• Compatibility. Many devices that we want to use for streaming don’t support VPNs. Hence, we selected only those providers that could help you change the Netflix region on any of your gadgets, including smart TVs, streaming devices, gaming consoles, and more.
• Price. It’s no secret that Netflix is constantly going through price changes, so paying heaps of cash for a VPN additionally would be a pity. Therefore, our selected Netflix VPNs offer fair price-to-quality ratios.

How do I change my Netflix region for free?

You may try using a free VPN to change the Netflix region, but the chances are close to zero. That’s because free VPNs typically include a tiny number of servers used by a large number of users. With several users on one server trying to access Netflix at once, the IPs quickly get blacklisted.

Moreover, free VPN services tend to be unreliable, as they may collect your activity logs and sell them to third parties. However, there’s a wallet-friendly alternative – you can try out freemium as well as free trial VPNs for Netflix.

Unblock Netflix for free with NordVPN

The best Netflix country library options

There’s one main reason why you might want to change your location on Netflix – and that’s accessing excellent international streaming libraries.

The best Netflix VPNs on this list give access to over 50 or ever 60 international locations. If you’re looking for inspiration on what to watch – here is the breakdown of the top 10 countries with the largest Netflix libraries (keep in mind that the number of titles varies over time):

Change the Netflix region with NordVPN

How to change the Netflix region on your device

To change your Netflix location you don’t have to go miles if you’re using a market-leading VPN. With current technologies, VPN apps help you switch your Netflix library within a few clicks on all your household devices.

• Change Netflix region on iPhone
• Change Netflix region on Android
• Change Netflix region on gaming consoles
• Change Netflix region on TV

Also, if you're trying to switch Netflix countries on devices that don't support VPNs, you will need to protect your whole network. For that, check out our guide explaining how to install a VPN on your router.

How to change the Netflix region on your iPhone

Want to watch geo-blocked movies on your smartphone? The process for changing the Netflix region with iPhone VPN is quite straightforward. Here’s how you do it:

1. Install a VPN from the Apple App Store. NordVPN works well with iOS devices
2. Log in to your new VPN account
3. Choose the country you want to connect to
4. Head to your phone settings and clear cache
5. Open your Netflix app – and see if the location has changed

Change the region with NordVPN

How to change the Netflix region on your Android

Changing the Netflix region on Android requires only a few simple steps. Here’s how you do it:

1. Install a VPN from the Google Play Store. NordVPN has a user-friendly Android app.
2. Register an account or log in
3. Choose the server in a country you want to connect to
4. Clear cache in your phone settings
5. Once you open the Netflix app your region should be changed

Change the region with NordVPN

How to change the Netflix region on gaming consoles

Both PlayStation and Xbox consoles do not natively support VPN apps – so, a method to change the Netflix region on them is also a little bit different. Here is how you change the Netflix region on both PS and Xbox consoles:

1. Choose the best VPN service for Netflix. NordVPN works with Netflix really well.
2. Install the VPN on your router or share VPN connection over wi–fi from another device.
3. Choose your preferred region for watching Netflix.
4. Connect your console to the wifi network.
5. Open Netflix and watch content from anywhere.

Change the region with NordVPN

How to change Netflix region on TV

If you have a newer smart TV, it most likely uses Android OS. In that case, changing the Netflix location on your smart TV is very simple. Just follow these instructions to get your favorite shows up and running:

1. Subscribe to a reputable VPN service (our top pick for Netflix is NordVPN, now 68% OFF).
2. Locate your VPN on the Google Play Store and install it.
3. Log into your existing account and pick the region of your choice.
4. Open Netflix – it should show the content of the country you selected.

Change the region with NordVPN

If your smart TV’s app store does not include VPN apps, changing the Netflix region can be a bit more difficult – but not impossible. For example, NordVPN offers a feature called Smart DNS, allowing you to unblock Netflix libraries even on devices that don’t support VPNs.

Why my VPN is not working while trying to stream Netflix

If your VPN is not working, the mostly likely explanation is that Netflix is blocking your connection. The streaming platform is strictly against VPN usage and has quite efficient security measures to detect them. Once a suspicious connection is spotted, Netflix immediately blacklists the IP address you’re using. In this case, you’ll probably see a message stating that you seem to be using an unblocker or proxy, like this one:

This issue can be avoided by using reliable VPN service. That’s because good providers keep adding new servers at their disposal. While they might not work at first, top-rated Netflix VPNs still include hundreds of servers, yet to be blacklisted by the streaming provider.

It’s a bit of a cat-and-mouse game. But for the best chances at reliably watching international Netflix libraries, we suggest you pick up the best possible VPN option.

If you want to find out more about Netflix errors, you can check: How to fix Netflix error code m7111-5059

How to fix Netflix VPN, unblocker, or proxy error?

Here’s what you need to do if your Netflix VPN seems to be not working and all you see is an error message that says, “You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy”:

1. Try another server. In this case, your problem will be related to your IP address. Try a different server in the same location.
2. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies. Your IP might be fine – but your device data is still revealing you. Clear your device’s cache and cookies.
3. Restart the Netflix application. With a working server, as well as no-cache and cookies, you should have a clean slate to work with.
4. Get a new reliable VPN service. There are plenty of VPNs that are unable to unblock Netflix. Meanwhile, each of our listed VPNs manages to do that just perfectly.

Change Netflix region with NordVPN

How do I change my Netflix country without VPN?

You may change your Netflix region in several alternative ways. One of them is proxy servers. While they act as a middleman between you and Netflix, they won’t encrypt your traffic. Furthermore, they are often overcrowded and resulting in laggy streaming.

Instead of VPN, you can also try SmartDNS to change the Netflix region. The feature can easily make you look from a different country by manipulating DNS requests. The main drawback, however, is that SmartDNS lacks the much-needed security and encryption you get with a VPN.

Another option is a remote desktop service, simply a computer in a needed location you connect to remotely. But the truth is, this service is hard to attain and quite expensive.

Alternatively, you try out a Tor browser. This privacy-minded browser can hide your location. The main issue is you can’t choose a specific location, and the connection speed is so slow that Netflix becomes almost unwatchable.

All in all, we recommend you use a VPN service to change your Netflix region. They will fully encrypt your data and give you the best shot at accessing worldwide streaming libraries – even if you have no technical expertise.

Conclusion

If you want to access a wide range of foreign Netflix libraries, you'll need to change your location. But don't pack your bags just yet. A VPN can help you change the Netflix region with ease.

VPNs can change your IP address to make you look like you're in the UK, South Korea, or Japan. And that's where you want to be for the best Netflix content. There's a slight issue though. You need to get a really good VPN for this.

Since Netflix is ruthless at blocking all VPN activities, only a top-rated provider like NordVPN can help you unblock different Netflix regions. It has a large fleet of servers and is constantly adding new IP addresses that work with Netflix. It also comes with traffic obfuscation – a feature that prevents the platform from knowing you're using a VPN.

While you may opt for alternatives, such as proxy websites or SmartDNS features, they may not suffice. Since these features lack speed, security, privacy protection, and specialized servers for the platform, your streaming experience will be subpar. That's why we recommend getting a NordVPN.

Best VPN deals this week:

4.9 /5

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Special deal

-68% OFF

Get special deal

4.7 /5

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Special deal

-82% OFF

Get special deal

4.3 /5

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Special deal

-49% OFF

Get special deal

More VPN guides from Cybernews:

FAQ