How to watch Netflix in China with a VPN in 2025
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China is one of a few countries that maintain strict internet regulations. Because of these government-imposed content restrictions, Netflix does not operate in China.
However, users can access Netflix in China by employing a virtual private network (VPN). It masks the IP address and routes traffic through servers in regions where the platform operates. This enables both Chinese residents and travelers to bypass geo-blocks and stream desired content.
Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide on how to watch Netflix in China, along with the best VPNs for it.
How to watch Netflix in China with a VPN
- Choose a VPN provider that works with Netflix, my top choice is NordVPN, now 77% OFF
- Download and install the VPN app on your preferred streaming device
- Sign in to the VPN app or sign up if you don’t have an account yet
- Connect to a server outside of China where Netflix is available
- Open Netflix and enjoy watching your favorite content
Why do you need a VPN to watch Netflix in China?
You need a reliable VPN to watch Netflix in China for several reasons. Firstly, Netflix simply doesn’t have a library in China – the country doesn’t have a license to stream Netflix content. In addition, no other Netflix libraries can be accessed from China due to internet restrictions.
Whether you live in China or are just visiting and trying to watch Netflix, the only thing you’ll encounter is an error message:
China implies strict measures regarding internet usage. Besides, Netflix needs to comply with copyright laws and distribution agreements in each country it operates in, which is quite challenging when it comes to China.
That’s why you need a strong VPN for Netflix that will let you watch your favorite TV shows and movies in China by effectively bypassing geo-blocks, ensuring your VPN connections, and hiding your actual location. As a result, your VPN usage and real IP address will remain undetectable to ISPs and the government.
Best VPNs to watch Netflix in China
To keep your connection secure and hide your real location and VPN usage, you need the best China VPN on the market. A good VPN will also help you enjoy fast speeds without buffering or lagging. We assessed 41 VPNs on the market to provide you with the top 3 for the best possible Netflix experience in China.
- NordVPN – overall best VPN for unblocking Netflix in China
- Surfshark – one of the fastest VPNs for Netflix in China
- Proton VPN – VPN with Secure Core servers to watch Netflix in China
Is Netflix banned in China?
The short answer is no, Netflix isn’t banned in China. However, due to China’s rigid restrictions and online censorship, Netflix simply isn’t available in China because it doesn’t have a library there. But that’s not the only reason.
China has many well-established and well-ranked streaming sites offering many world-known TV shows and movies. Besides, the prices of their local streaming sites are extremely low, so people may avoid paying more when they can access their favorite content at a lower price.
So, the main reasons why Netflix is not available in China are the geo-restrictions and online censorship. In other words, for Netflix to work in the country, it needs to comply with strict government laws. This would affect most of the content that Netflix has to offer, so a fair amount of shows and movies wouldn’t be available.
How to watch Netflix in China: detailed guide
The process of setting up a VPN to watch Netflix in China is very straightforward and doesn’t require a lot of effort. Here’s my step-by-step guide:
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Find a reliable VPN provider with many servers worldwide, I recommend NordVPN
- Download the app on your preferred device and follow the installation process
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Open the VPN app and log in or create an account
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Connect to a server in a country where Netflix is available, such as the US
- Open Netflix, sign in, and enjoy your favorite content
Can’t access Netflix in China with a VPN: how to fix it
Sometimes, even the best VPNs display issues and may struggle to unblock streaming platforms. Here are a few common issues why your Netflix VPN isn’t working with easy fixes:
- You’ve connected to a server in a country where Netflix is blocked. Check if you’re connected to a country where Netflix is licensed.
- The VPN you’re using may not be robust enough to bypass all geo-blocks. Try changing your VPN provider to a more reliable one, such as NordVPN.
- Your real IP address might be leaking. See if your VPN software is up to date.
- You may have a lot of cache stored on your browser. Clear all browser’s cache and cookies.
Contact your VPN’s customer support team for assistance should you still have issues.
What to watch on Netflix in China
Netflix offers a wide range of Chinese movies and TV shows around the world. By getting a reliable VPN for the Chinese geo-restrictions, you will be able to enjoy your favorite content hassle-free. Here are some movies and TV shows available on Netflix around the world:
| Movie title | Genre | Country |
| The First Frost | Drama, romance | United Kingdom, United States, Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, and more |
| Girl's Revenge | Drama | United Kingdom, United States, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, and more |
| Initial D | Action | Japan, Hong Kong, India, South Korea |
| Zero to Hero | Drama | United Kingdom, United States, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, and more |
| The Yin-Yang Master: Dream Of Eternity | Sci-Fi | United Kingdom, United States, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Japan, and more |
| Time | Comedy | Hong Kong, Singapore |
| TV show title | Genre | Country |
| Hidden Love | Romance | United Kingdom, United States, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, and more |
| Scissor Seven | Animated | United Kingdom, United States, Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, and more |
| Copycat Killer | Thriller | United Kingdom, United States, Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Germany, and more |
| Spice and Wolf: Merchant Meets The Wise Wolf | Fantasy | Japan, Hong Kong, India, Singapore, South Korea |
Final thoughts
As China imposes strict online censorship and geo-restrictions, you need a reliable VPN to watch Netflix in China. In addition, streaming providers are becoming better at detecting VPNs, so it’s harder to find a VPN that could bypass the geo-blocks and keep your connection private and secure.
After testing a number of VPN providers, my best recommendation is NordVPN. With its robust security features, audited no-logs policy, and ability to seamlessly unblock streaming services, it's the go-to option for unblocking Netflix in China.
FAQ
Is Netflix available in China?
No, Netflix is not available in China. The service is restricted due to the country's strict censorship measures, including the Great Firewall, which limits access to many foreign websites and services. Luckily, you can easily bypass these restrictions with a reliable VPN, such as NordVPN.
Do I need a VPN for Netflix in China?
Yes, you need a VPN for Netflix in China, as Netflix doesn’t have a library in the country and imposes geo-restrictions on its content due to licensing agreements. To circumvent these restrictions and watch Netflix content in China, use a VPN. Our research shows that the best VPNs for this are NordVPN, Surfshark, and Proton VPN.
What is the Chinese version of Netflix?
iQIYI is the most popular Chinese streaming service, often referred to as the Chinese Netflix. Due to online tracking and strict government laws, we don’t recommend using iQIYI.
Why is Netflix not available in China?
Netflix is not available in China due to regulatory restrictions. The platform can’t comply with China’s strict regulations on foreign media content.
