How to watch Disney+ Hotstar in the USA
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Dovilė Jankevičiūtė
Writer
Hotstar is a popular Indian streaming service that gives you access to a variety of content, from movies to live cricket matches. After its merger with the Walt Disney Company, it is now available to stream in the US, Canada, Singapore, and the UK. Unfortunately, Indian Hotstar is geo-restricted in the USA. But the good news is, you can bypass these location restrictions by using a VPN.
With a VPN you can connect to an Indian server and obtain an Indian IP. So, when you access Hotstar, it appears that you’re connecting from India, and get to enjoy all the Indian content from wherever you are in the world.
But is it really as simple as all that? Read on for everything you need to know about watching Indian Disney+ Hotstar from where you are.
How to watch Hotstar in USA ?
Why do you need a VPN to watch Hotstar?
Hotstar India has a large content library that you can’t access outside of India without a VPN. There is an international version of Hotstar that is available in the US, Canada, the UK, and Singapore, but it doesn’t give you access to all the content Hotstar has to offer.
Hotstar India streams a lot of sports broadcasts, like cricket, football, martial arts, tennis, and others. There are also movies like Thor Love and Thunder, Star Wars: Andor, and more. Canadian, the UK, and Singapore Hotstar have fewer sports broadcasts and no movie content. So, the Indian version is the most diverse in content. This is because of the geo-restrictions put in place to comply with content licensing agreements.
If you try to stream Indian Hotstar outside India, you won’t be able to access all the content that is available in India. You might even see an error code. Or access only the Disney plus version.
Luckily, you can bypass these geo-restrictions by using a VPN to connect to a server in India. It will give you an Indian IP address, meaning you can then access Hotstar’s full content catalog. Not to mention the extra layer of online security and privacy that comes along.
How to sign up for Indian Hotstar from anywhere
The best way to sign up for a Hotstar account is to use a reliable VPN from our best VPNs list like Surfshark which offers 50 virtual servers in India. Not only will this get you access to a lot more content than the international version, but it also works out a lot cheaper.
You can actually sign up for a Hotstar India account for free. Or, if you want even more content, you can subscribe to a Disney+ Hotstar Premium or VIP Plan for a lower price than you will find anywhere else.
Hotstar prices depending on where you are in the world:
- India: ₹299 a month
- US: $9.99 a month
- Canada: $12.99 CAD a month
- UK: £5.99 a month
To put this into perspective, ₹299 converts to $3.99. This means that if you use a VPN to connect to Indian Hotstar, not only can you access a lot more content, it will also work out to be $6 cheaper a month.
Best VPN services for Disney+ Hotstar
- Surfshark – all-time best VPN for Disney+ Hotstar with the largest Indian server fleet
- IPVanish – excellent Hotstar VPN to watch Indian content in high quality
- PrivateVPN – affordable VPN that unblocks Hotstar from anywhere
If you want to use a VPN to watch Hotstar, you will need one that has servers in India, so you can bypass the geo-restrictions. However, many VPNs decided to eliminate their Indian servers due to government requirements to store user-related data.
Luckily, our carefully picked VPNs have virtual instead of physical servers in India to keep their no-logs policies intact. So, here is a list of our best Hotstar VPNs:
1. Surfshark – overall best VPN for Disney+ Hotstar
| 🌎Based in: | The Netherlands |
| 🖥️Servers/countries: | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries |
| 🍿Streaming sites: | Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more |
| 🔥Coupons: | Get 82% OFF Surfshark + 2 months FREE |
Surfshark is our best VPN for accessing Disney+ Hotstar. It has over 3,200 servers worldwide and 50 virtual servers in three locations in India: Mumbai and Delhi. So, you’ll easily bypass Hotstar location restrictions.
Surfshark can also unblock geo-restrictions on all sorts of other streaming services, including Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and HBO Max. So, it’s ideal for streaming content from anywhere in the world.
This is one of the fastest VPNs that we’ve tested. Due to the WireGuard tunneling protocol that Surfshark offers, your streaming experience will be smooth, lag-free, and in high definition.
Additionally, Surfshark protects your data online with AES-256-bit encryption to keep your activity safe from prying eyes. It also comes with a kill switch, which will prevent your real IP address from leaking accidentally and exposing you while streaming Indian Hotstar.
Also, the Smart DNS feature will allow you to enjoy streaming your favorite Indian content on devices that don’t support VPN apps, like Smart TVs.
It’s cheaper than a lot of its competitors, with prices starting from $2.30/month. So, it’s a great option if you’re on a budget. One account covers unlimited simultaneous connections, and there’s a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Learn more about its features in our full Surfshark VPN review.
2. IPVanish – top VPN to watch Indian movies on Hotstar
| 🌎Based in: | United States |
| 🖥️Servers/countries: | 2,200 servers in 52 countries |
| 🍿Streaming sites: | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Disney+, and more |
| 🔥Coupons: | Get 75% OFF IPVanish! |
IPVanish is another top-class VPN for Disney+ Hotstar. It has 4 virtual servers in 2 different locations in India that you can easily use for watching Indian movies on Hotstar.
What’s even better is that you can use this VPN on unlimited devices and enjoy movie marathons with your family and friends.
Apart from that, we’ve tested IPVanish and it works with major streaming platforms, like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and others. Also, it uses the blazing fast WireGuard tunneling protocol so you can watch HD movies without buffering.
In terms of security, your connection is protected using top-class security features, such as a kill switch, traffic obfuscation, and AES-256 encryption. So you can be sure that nobody can track your Hotstar movie preferences or anything you browse.
The prices of IPVanish start from $2.99/month and you can install it on all popular devices. Each subscription comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee in case the service doesn’t meet your expectations.
Check out our detailed IPVanish review to find out more.
3. PrivateVPN – great Disney+ Hotstar VPN with fast connections
| 🌎Based in: | Sweden |
| 🖥️Servers/countries: | 200 servers in 63 countries |
| 🍿Streaming sites: | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Video, and more |
| 🔥Coupons: | Get PrivateVPN, now 85% OFF! |
PrivateVPN also has several server options in 2 locations in India and gives up to 10 simultaneous and fast connections. That’s why it’s another great VPN we recommend using to unblock Disney+ Hotstar to watch Indian content.
If you’re looking for a universal solution to access multiple streaming platforms, PrivateVPN can unblock other sites as well. That includes Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and many more. So you can enjoy unlimited content for your consumption in high-quality video.
PrivateVPN supports the fastest tunneling protocol – WireGuard, so you’ll get to enjoy a lag-free streaming experience and quick connection times.
Additionally, this VPN has a reliable kill switch to prevent your real IP address from leaking. Also, the stealth VPN feature masks your connection through a VPN tunnel.
You can get a subscription from $2.00/month to access Hotstar on any device. It’s compatible with all popular operating systems and even gives a 30-day money-back guarantee for a risk-free experience.
You can read more about this VPN in our PrivateVPN review.
How to download and watch Disney+ Hotstar on your device
The good news is, as long as you can use a VPN on your phone, laptop, or TV, you can use it to watch Disney+ Hotstar. We have prepared detailed guides showing how to use a VPN for Hotstar on most popular devices:
- Watch Disney+ Hotstar on your computer
- Watch Disney+ Hotstar on your smartphone
- Watch Disney+ Hotstar on your streaming device
- Watch Disney+ Hotstar on your Smart TV
How to watch Hotstar on your computer (Windows and Mac)
- Choose a VPN that has a lot of Indian servers. For this, We recommend Surfshark, now with 82% OFF.
- Download your VPN and create an account.
- Choose an Indian server to connect to.
- Go to hotstar.com
- Sit back and start streaming!
How to watch Hotstar on your smartphone (Android and iOS)
- Select a VPN with Indian servers. Try Surfshark with a discount.
- Install your VPN and set up an account.
- Choose an Indian server.
- Download the Hotstar app from the Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store.
- Start watching Disney+ Hotstar from wherever you are in the world!
How to watch Hotstar on streaming devices
Many streaming devices like Roku or Kodi don't support VPN apps. So, if you want to use a VPN to watch Hotstar on your Roku stick, you will need to set one up on your router. Here’s how to do it:
- Choose a VPN with Indian servers, such as Surfshark, and set up an account.
- Connect to an Indian server.
- Login to your router’s admin and select your VPN’s network.
- Download the Hotstar app on your streaming stick.
- Login or create a Hotstar account.
- Start streaming!
How to watch Hotstar on Smart TV
Unfortunately, many Smart TVs do not support VPN apps. However, you can get around this by connecting your VPN to your Wi-Fi router. Here’s how to do it:
- Download a VPN that has Indian servers. We recommend Surfshark, now 82% OFF.
- Connect to an Indian server.
- Go into your router’s admin and connect it to your VPN’s network.
- Download the Hotstar app on your Smart TV.
- Login or create an account.
- Enjoy binge-watching!
How to watch Hotstar outside India
Disney+ Hotstar has a fantastic catalog of content. And luckily, you can access it even if you’re outside of India. Here we have guides showing how to enjoy it from the most popular parts of the word:
- Watch Disney+ Hotstar from Canada
- Watch Disney+ Hotstar from Europe
- Watch Disney+ Hotstar from Australia
How to watch from Canada
Hotstar’s international streaming service is now available in Canada. However, it doesn’t have as much content as the Indian version and it’s more expensive. So, if you want to access full a content library, and save money on your monthly subscription, you will need to use a VPN to connect to an Indian server. Here’s how to do it:
- Download a VPN with plenty of Indian servers to choose from. Surfshark is good for this.
- Install the app and set up an account.
- Use the VPN to connect to an Indian server.
- Go to Hotstar and sign up for an account.
- Start streaming your favorite shows and movies.
How to watch from Europe
You can now access Hotstar’s international streaming service in the UK. However, if you want access to its full content catalog, or if you’re trying to access it from another part of Europe, such as France, Germany, or Spain, you will need to use a VPN. Just follow this step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Pick a VPN that will let you connect to an Indian server, such as Surfshark, now with a discount.
- Install the VPN and register for an account.
- Connect to an Indian server.
- Set up a Hotstar account.
- Sit back and start streaming!
How to watch from Australia
Currently unavailable in Australia. So, if you want to watch Hotstar, you will need to use a VPN to bypass these geo-restrictions. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide that explains how to do this:
- Choose a VPN with Indian servers, like Surfshark.
- Set up your VPN.
- Connect to an Indian server.
- Set up a Hotstar account.
- Start binge-watching.
Can’t access Hotstar with a VPN?
It is possible to encounter an issue when connecting to Disney+ Hostar, even if you are using a VPN to connect to an Indian server. If you get an error code that says “This content is not available in your region,” it could be that you are using a poor-quality VPN, or you are connected to a bad server.
There are a few steps that you can take to fix this issue:
- Check if you’ve actually connected to an Indian server on your VPN app.
- Clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
- Try a different Indian server, because the one you’ve been using might have been blocked.
- Contact the VPN’s customer support team and inform them of the issues you’re experiencing.surf
How to watch Hotstar for free
In India, there is a free version of Hotstar, which gives you access to a wide variety of content. If you want more content, you can either pay ₹299 a month for the VIP Plan, or ₹1499 a month for the Disney+ Hotstar Premium Plan. However, the free version comes with loads of great content, so you can use a VPN to connect to a server in India and watch it for free.
You will need to pay a small monthly fee to use a reputable VPN. But most good VPNs, such as Surfshark come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Additionally, Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial and it’s pretty easy to claim it:
- Open the iOS or Android app store because the free trial can be claimed on mobile only
- Find Surfshark and download the app
- Sign up for the application, they won’t charge you until after the 7 days
- Confirm the subscription and now you can use Surfshark for free on any device for 7 days
So, if you just want to binge-watch a specific TV show on American Netflix from abroad, after the free trial ends, you can use the 30-day money-back guarantee and reclaim your money.
What can you watch on Disney+ Hotstar India?
Hotstar boasts a huge catalog of content from around the world. It has the biggest Bollywood blockbusters, like Badhai Ho. You also get access to sporting events, including football matches and the Indian Premier League cricket.
Aside from this, you can also watch some of the world’s most popular shows, including Game of Thrones, Big Little Lies, and Billions. And of course, if you sign up for Disney+ Hotstar, you also get access to Disney+ content.
Here is a list of the most popular content on Disney+ Hotstar:
| Movie | Genre |
| Good Luck Jerry (2022) | Crime |
| Mission Mangal (2019) | Sci-fi |
| Bala (2019) | Satire |
| Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013) | Sport |
| M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story (2016) | Drama |
Bottom line
Disney+ Hotstar has great content but its access is limited for people living outside India. Due to regional restrictions, users cannot watch Hotstar in the USA or other countries unless they change their IP address with a VPN.
Best Hotstar VPNs can help you virtually appear in India and access your desired content from anywhere in the world. For example, Surfshark has 50 virtual servers in Mumbai, Chennai, and Indore that you can use for unblocking Disney+ Hotstar.
Best VPN deals this week:
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FAQs
Is Hotstar the same as Disney+ Hotstar?
Disney+ Hotstar is the Indian version of Hotstar and gives you access to Hotstar content and Disney+ content. The international version of Hotstar, however, does not come with Disney+ content.
Can I watch Disney+ Hotstar in Australia?
Disney+ Hotstar is not available in Australia. However, you can watch Disney+ Hotstar in Australia or anywhere else in the world by using a reliable VPN to connect to a server in India. You will then be able to sign up for a Hotstar account and start streaming content.
Can I watch Hotstar on my TV?
Yes, if you have a smart TV or streaming stick, you should be able to watch Hotstar on your TV. However, if you live in a country that doesn’t have the rights to show Hotstar, you will need to use a VPN to bypass these geo-restrictions. You can do this by downloading a VPN app onto your TV or by connecting your Wi-Fi router to your VPN.
Which country has access to free Hotstar?
India has access to a free version of Hotstar. If you want to access this from outside India, you will need to use a reputable VPN and connect to an Indian server. This will get around the geo-restrictions by issuing you with an Indian IP address.
Is Hotstar discontinued in the US?
Yes, Hotstar has been discontinued in the US and the broadcasted content has been moved to other Disney-owned streaming platforms. However, you can still access Disney Hotstar with a reliable VPN, like Surfshark.
Does Hotstar work in the US with a VPN?
Yes, Hotstar works in the US with a VPN. For example, with Surfshark we’ve been able to access Hotstar easily. You just need to pick an Indian server and then open the Hotstar app.
Is Disney+ and Disney+ Hotstar the same?
Hotstar was acquired by Disney+ and is now a part of the Disney+ bundle streaming services. Hotstar platform focuses on Indian content and some of the Disney plus content.
Comments
Instead of a phone number, you can also try using your Facebook or email accounts to subscribe to Hotstar.
Hotstar has been discontinued in the US Disney+, but you can still access it by connecting to an Indian VPN server. NordVPN or Surfshark are among the best VPNs that successfully unblock Disney+ and have Indian servers, so we suggest trying this method.
You can also try connecting to several different VPN servers and clearing your browser's cache before accessing Hotstar.
We hope this helps.
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