Netflix has about 5 million subscribers in India, but the country is only granted a fraction of the same library of shows and movies compared to the US. This disparity is down to licensing deals, but it can be frustrating for US residents who want to access their home library while traveling abroad. Luckily there is a way to overcome these restrictions. To stream Netflix USA in India, you just need to connect to a Virtual Private Network (VPN), this will give you a US IP address and the ability to access your home library.
VPNs encrypt all the traffic flowing to and from your device and route it via an intermediary server of your choice. If you choose a server in the United States, your Indian IP address will be switched with one from the US.
While this seems like a straightforward approach, we should mention that Netflix deploys sophisticated filters and VPN detection algorithms. As such, not all VPNs are up to the task of securely accessing Netflix USA in India. We list the ones that are up to challenge and discuss the individual merits of each provider below, but in case you don’t have time to read the whole article, here’s a snapshot of our top VPNs for watching Netflix USA in India.
Best VPNs to watch Netflix USA in India
- NordVPN: Our first choice to stream US Netflix from India. Blazing fast speeds, a vast number of server locations in the US, and an ability to securely access Netflix. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: Great for users on a budget. An unlimited number of simultaneous connections, fast speeds, and a growing server network.
- ExpressVPN: Deploys uncrackable encryption and speedy servers to make streaming US Netflix a breeze from India. Well-designed apps and friendly customer support.
- CyberGhost: Blazing fast speeds, impressive security features, and a real knack for accessing streaming services. ideal for accessing Us Netflix in India.
- IPVanish: Advanced encryption and cloaking features coupled with great speeds. A good contender for securely accessing Netflix US in India.
- PrivateVPN: Best known for its streaming capabilities and strong security. Proven to work with Netflix US and many other streaming services.
- Private Internet Access: Compatible with Netflix USA and also has servers in India. Secure 10 devices at once. Good speeds and a no-logs policy.
How to stream Netflix USA from India with a VPN
Using a VPN is surprisingly simple, even if you’ve never used one before. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be watching US Netflix in India in no time.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn’t right for you and you’ll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
Here’s how to use a VPN to watch US Netflix from India:
- Register and sign up with one of the providers we recommend in this article (our top choice is NordVPN).
- Once the payment formalities are out of the way, proceed to download and install the VPN app onto your preferred device.
- Restart your device once the app is installed.
- Open the VPN app and select a Netflix server to gain a US IP address and change the Netflix region. Note that with some VPNs, not all US servers will work with Netflix. Either consult with customer support or check your chosen provider’s website if you have issues.
- Wait for the connection to be established.
- Congratulations! Just navigate to Netflix and start watching.
Best VPNs for watching US Netflix in India – at a glance
We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for watching US Netflix in India.
Best VPNs to watch Netflix USA in India
Not every VPN is up to the task of securely accessing Netflix abroad. We curated our list of the best VPNs to stream US Netflix after critically evaluating them on the following criteria:
- Works with Netflix US and other streaming services
- Offers consistent speeds for uninterrupted streaming (no buffering)
- Makes use of superior encryption protocols, so your location remains hidden
- Provides friendly, efficient customer support
- Allows a money-back guarantee
- Includes provision for simultaneous connection
This is a summary, but you can read a more detailed account of how we test our VPNs in the methodology section below. For now, let’s take a closer look at the ones that are up to the job!
Here’s our list of the best VPNs for accessing US Netflix while in India.
1. NordVPN
Jan 2023
works with Netflix USATested Jan 2023
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- Background
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our top pick for watching Netflix US in India. It offers a vast global network of over 5,400 servers, with plenty of servers in the US. NordVPN pegs incredible speeds and beat almost all competitors in our latest speed tests. Its site lists servers to securely watch Netflix, along with additional troubleshooting steps if you face problems. On top of that, its 24/7 live customer support will lend a helping hand if you run into any problems.
One account allows for six devices to connect at the same time, and apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
BEST VPN FOR US NETFLIX IN INDIA:NordVPN is our #1 choice. It boasts incredible speeds and doesn’t skimp on any privacy or security features. You’re assured a stable connection to stream Netflix USA in India. Try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros:
- Wide network of global servers
- Superfast speeds for seamless streaming
- Military-grade 256-bit encryption
- Great for Netflix US, UK, and others
- Keeps no logs at all
- Offers 24/7 live chat
Cons:
- Desktop app can be slow to connect
Our score:
Read our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
works with Netflix USATested Jan 2023
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Surfshark is a solid budget choice that doesn’t skimp on service. It doesn’t require you to connect to a US server in order to access Netflix. Its website claims that you can connect to any server closest to your actual geographic location and still be able to stream the American version. That’s possible with the SmartDNS function. However, it’s better to connect to a US server for better speeds. With over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries and lots of locations in the US, there are plenty of options to stream your favorite content.
At the time of writing, you can connect an unlimited number of devices with one account. That’s great news for people wishing to share the plan with friends and family. Apps are included for iOS, Windows, Linux, MacOS, and Android.
BEST BUDGET OPTION:Surfshark delivers a well-rounded VPN experience with impressive streaming capabilities and fast speeds. No connection limits. Try it with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Reliable servers in 100+ countries
Connect unlimited devices
Kill switch on all platforms
Securely stream Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer
24/7 support
Some options are buried in submenus
Read our full review of Surfshark.
3. ExpressVPN
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
ExpressVPN has multiple server locations in the United States and is proven to work with Netflix USA, Canada, UK, and others. Its optimized servers and superior encryption protocols all but guarantee a stable connection with a near-perfect uptime record.
Security parameters include 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, leak protection, and an internet kill switch. This provider doesn’t store any detailed user logs, including IP addresses. You’ll find apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. One account allows for five devices to connect concurrently.
VERSATILE VPN:ExpressVPN is speedy and efficient. It operates several Netflix-optimized servers and delivers a robust user experience. Plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Fast enough to play HD video without buffering
Top-class security and privacy protection features
Works with Netflix US, UK, and others
Zero logs policy
Offers 24/7 live chat
Slightly more expensive than some other providers
Streaming servers aren’t labeled
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
4. CyberGhost
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost has almost 1500 servers in the US, so you’re definitely going to find a fast, stable connection to access Netflix in India. T|his VPN service also works with many other streaming platforms, including HBO Max, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.
Security features include 256-bit AES encryption on the OpenVPN protocol, an internet kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. An ad blocker and anti-malware defense are thrown in for good measure.
Speeds are consistently among the fastest we’ve tested, making HD streaming a breeze. Plus, this provider offers unlimited bandwidth and traffic, so you won’t be subjected to any data caps. If you run into any problems, its 24/7 live chat support will assist you.
Apps are included for all major platforms — Android, iOS, MacOS, and Windows. One account allows for seven devices to connect at the same time.
SPEEDY VPN:CyberGhost is designed for newcomers to the VPN world. Its fast speeds and top-tier encryption are well-suited for Netflix. Try it with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Streams HD video seamlessly
Netflix-specific servers
Keeps no logs
Some of the fastest servers we’ve tested
45-day money-back guarantee
Lack of configuration options will frustrate power users
Doesnt work in China
Take a look at our full CyberGhost review.
5. IPVanish
Website: www.IPVanish.com
IPVanish scores points on its superior privacy and location-evading features. It declines to store any user logs, including metadata, and personally manages all the servers in its network. It includes military-grade encryption, perfect forward secrecy, an internet kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks.
At the time of writing, IPVanish offers more than 1,000 servers in the US, giving you a stable option to stream Netflix. Customer support can be a little clunky at times, but it can assist in finding an appropriate server. Speeds are quick, and one account allows for any number of simultaneous connections.
Apps are available for all the major platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS.
SUPERIOR CLOAKING ABILITY:IPVanish incorporates hardy location-evading technology without compromising on speed. Try it with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Large number of reliable servers in the US
Keeps no logs whatsoever
Connect all of your devices
Offers 24/7 live chat
Doesn’t offer any browser extensions
Based in the US a Five Eyes member
Read our full IPVanish review
6. PrivateVPN
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
PrivateVPN has a smaller number of servers than the other providers on this list, but it does its job very well. It lists around a dozen servers in the US that are optimized for Netflix, as well as others in Canada, the UK, France, Japan, and Denmark.
This provider uses 256-bit AES encryption along with perfect forward secrecy, DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection, and an internet kill switch for the Windows app.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. A single account allows for up to six devices to connect at the same time.
GREAT FOR STREAMING:PrivateVPN is a reliable performer when it comes to geo-restricted media. Plus, its friendly customer support provides an edge. Try it with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Works with lots of Netflix libraries
Keeps no logs whatsoever
Privacy and security are top notch
A small number of servers to choose from
Live chat is not around the clock
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
7. Private Internet Access
works with netflix usTested Jan 2023
Website: www.PrivateInternetAccess.com
Private Internet Access works with Netflix US and allows you to watch it anywhere in the world, India included. Overall, you’ll find PIA servers in more than 80 countries and this includes servers in the US and India. Thanks to its fast speeds and offer of unlimited bandwidth, PIA is highly suitable for streaming, particularly because streams are more likely to be high resolution and without lag or buffering.
Connecting to a PIA server ensures your data is 256-bit AES encrypted, shielding it from hackers and snoopers alike. You can also expect DNS leak protection and a kill switch. With just one account, it’s possible to secure up to 10 of your devices. Optional add-ons include a Windows antivirus and a dedicated IP address. Last but not least, PIA doesn’t keep any logs which further safeguards your privacy.
SECURE 10 DEVICES:Private Internet Access lets you stream Netflix USA in India and also works with Netflix UK. Good speeds and unlimited bandwidth. Operates a true no-logs policy and allows 10 devices per account. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Works with several Netflix libraries the US and UK included
Allows up to 10 simultaneous connections per account
Doesn’t even keep connection logs like some other VPNs
Unable to bypass the Great Firewall of China
Mobile apps look a little cluttered
Read our full Private Internet Access review.
Using a free VPN to stream Netflix USA in India
We don’t recommend using a free VPN to stream Netflix USA. Here are a few reasons why:
Subpar security and privacy standards
Free VPNs aren’t in the business of providing top-notch encryption protocols and, therefore, aren’t well-equipped to handle the sophisticated detection filters deployed by Netflix. You might be able to find a free VPN that has options for a US server, but that isn’t guaranteed to stream Netflix by any means.
To make things worse, lots of free VPNs track user data to sell to third-party advertisers. That goes against the purpose VPNs serve in the first place. A study of free VPN apps on the Android app store discovered that 38% of them contained malware of some nature, and an astonishing 87% didn’t route traffic via the encrypted tunnel they claimed to set up.
Lack of customer support
As we’ve outlined in our recommended VPNs, customer support can make a vital difference in helping you select the right server for Netflix, as well as troubleshooting if you run into any problems. Free VPNs don’t have dedicated customer support portals and won’t be on hand to solve urgent queries. This will dilute your overall experience.
Poor speeds and server networks
There’s no such thing as a free lunch. If you’re going to use a VPN without paying for it, then expect limited speeds, a choice of only a few servers, and wait times to connect during peak hours. That stands in stark contrast to what paid VPNs offer — consistent and trouble-free Netflix streaming.
To sum it up, it’s not in your best interests to compromise your privacy and security on the web by opting for a free VPN.
Methodology: Identifying the best VPNs for Netflix US
Netflix has really cracked down on VPN users in recent years, and as a result, most services won’t work reliably. However, there are a few that can still securely access Netflix abroad. To make sure we’re only recommending the best of the best, all of our top VPNs had to meet the strict criteria set out below:
- Lots of US servers: Before you can access the US content library, you’ll need to change your IP address to a US one. That’s why we look for providers with lots of American servers, ideally spread across several cities, since this ensures you can choose the location closest to you.
- Strong streaming potential: As well as Netflix, we check to see how well our top VPNs work with competing services like Disney Plus, HBO Max, Sling TV, and YouTube TV. This way, we can say exactly which of your usual services you’ll be able to use abroad.
- High speeds: 4K streams require a download speed of around 25 Mbps, but every VPN will slow you down to some degree. We conduct regular speed tests so that we can say with confidence which VPNs are the fastest at the moment.
- Powerful security tools: The services above all use 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection to keep your online activities private. Further, they follow no-logs policies, which means they can’t reveal what you get up to under any circumstances.
- Beginner-friendly: We look for providers with user-friendly apps and live chat-based customer support. However, anything that streamlines your experience is a huge bonus. For instance, some of the VPNs above include servers specifically designed to help you stream Netflix abroad, while others allow any number of connections.
What you’ve seen so far is only a small part of our larger testing strategy. We actually have a whole post devoted to explaining how Comparitech tests VPNs, in case you’d like to learn more.
- First, contact your VPN’s customer support team and check that the server you’re connected to is optimized for Netflix.
- Proceed to log out of all Google accounts, including the one in your Chrome browser. Google caches IP addresses, and it’s possible that this is the reason you’re being denied access to Netflix.
- Disable your device’s GPS and any other location-based services. Clear browser cookies, cache, and temporary files.
- Disable IPv6. This is mostly for Windows 10 users, but it might cause issues on other operating systems.
- Purge your DNS cache. To do that in Windows, open Command Prompt in administrator mode and enter the command: ipconfig /flushdns
- Change your device’s time zone so that it corresponds to the US server you’re connected to.
- Disconnect from and close the VPN app. Restart your device and reconnect to the Netflix-optimized server to get a different IP address.
For example, its original productions like Stranger Things and Sacred Games don’t have the same restrictions and are available for streaming all over the world.
Netflix tracks your device’s IP address to determine where you’re streaming from. An IP address is a unique string of numbers assigned to you by your internet service provider. It helps host websites and apps to approximate your location. So if you log on to the internet in India, you’re assigned a local IP address. Netflix uses this information to display country-specific content.
That’s why it’s vital to use a VPN to obfuscate your actual location. If you connect to a VPN server in the US, it will appear that you’re physically in the United States, and the local library will be made available. Note that it doesn’t matter if your account was originally registered in India.