The Apple TV+ streaming service is available in over 100 countries worldwide, so there’s a decent chance that if you travel abroad, you’ll be able to access it locally. If not, or if you simply want to access your home country’s version of Apple TV+, then you’ll need a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to do so. Without one, you’ll encounter streaming error messages such as “This video isn’t available to watch in the country or region you’re currently in.”
Like most streaming platforms, Apple TV+ uses geo-blocking to restrict content based on geographical location. Content ownership rights vary by country. In an effort to comply with existing licensing agreements and prevent legal issues, Apple TV+ ensures content is region-locked. It also actively blocks VPN IP addresses when it detects them. This is likely why Surfshark isn’t working with Apple TV+, though there are a couple of other possibilities.
In this post, we’ll walk you through all the most common reasons for Surfshark struggling with Apple TV+, explain how to fix them, and, in case that doesn’t work, list some VPN alternatives.
Why isn’t Surfshark working with Apple TV+?
VPNs, Surfshark included, take your internet traffic and route it through a secure, encrypted tunnel. You’ll be assigned an IP address matching the server location you’ve chosen, allowing you to spoof your location and bypass geo-restrictions, including those on Apple TV.
That all sounds very promising, but why isn’t Surfshark working with Apple TV+? The fact is that Apple TV+ doesn’t want people using VPNs to bypass blocks. They are constantly working to block VPNs and upgrade their VPN detection methods. As such, even the best VPNs for Apple TV may encounter issues from time to time.
Here’s csoem common reasons why Surfshark isn’t working with Apple TV+:
- Apple TV has identified your current IP address as belonging to a VPN and blocked it.
- You’re not connected to a VPN server, or you’re connected to a VPN server location where Apple TV+ isn’t offered.
- Browser cookies are still telling Apple TV+ your previous IP address and location, and it’s not acknowledging your VPN IP address as a result.
- Your phone’s GPS is telling Apple TV+ your actual location, overriding the VPN IP address and its corresponding location.
- Mismatched timezone settings: If your Apple TV’s system time doesn’t align with the VPN server’s region, it can trigger geo-location errors on streaming apps.
- Potential DNS leaks: Apple TV may default to your ISP’s DNS, leaking your location even with NordVPN active and causing playback issues on some services.
- Outdated tvOS or Surfshark version: Normally, Apple TV and any installed apps update automatically. Disabling either could cause Surfshark to stop working.
It’s not always immediately obvious which of the above is causing Surfshark to not work with Apple TV+. See the potential fixes below and go through them one-by-one.
How to fix Surfshark not working with Apple TV+
Fortunately, it’s possible to fix a VPN not working with a streaming service, particularly when it’s Surfshark, which is one of the best VPNs available. You don’t need to be especially tech-savvy either. Surfshark makes things easy with its lightweight, user-friendly apps, 24/7 support, and extensive help center.
Here’s how to fix Surfshark not working with Apple TV+:
- It may be that your Surfshark app isn’t up-to-date. Updates are usually automatic, but if you do want to manually update, download and install the latest version from the Surfshark website or the app store. Similarly, make sure you’re running the latest OS version.
- Clear your browser’s cache and cookies. This helps Apple TV+ forget your previous IP address and its location and recognize the IP address provided by the VPN.
- Sometimes you just need to try more than one VPN server to find an IP address that works. Some of Surfshark’s IP addresses will have been blacklisted by Apple TV+, others not. Make sure you’re choosing one in a location where Apple TV is available.
- If you’re on mobile, it might be worth switching to a desktop device. Bypassing geo-blocking on mobile is more difficult due to its GPS data.
- Change the Apple TV time: Adjust your settings so your local time is the same as the VPN server you’re connected to. Otherwise, some streaming apps may block access.
- Last but not least, you can always contact Surfshark’s customer support to troubleshoot the issues with Apple TV+. They may be able to recommend a specific server to use.
Still no luck? You can always try one of our top recommended VPNs for Apple TV+. We provide a quick rundown of each further below.
How to access Apple TV with Surfshark
It may be that Surfshark is working with Apple TV+, but you’re just not sure how to get set up. Thankfully, Surfshark is beginner-friendly, making setup very straightforward, just follow these simple steps.
Here’s how to use Surfshark to access Apple TV+ from anywhere:
- Don’t yet have a Surfshark account? Sign up with Surfshark by selecting your preferred tier. You can choose from one-month, one-year, and two-year plans.
- Download and install the Surfshark app that’s compatible with the device on which you want to stream Apple TV+.
- Log in to the Surfshark app and connect to a server in a country in which Apple TV+ is available. For example, a server in the US to access the US version of Apple TV+.
- You can now access Apple TV+ and start streaming. You may need to clear your cookies for the change to your IP address to take effect.
- That’s it! Remember that if you’re still having trouble, then it’s a good idea to contact Surfshark’s support. It’s available via live chat and email 24 hours a day.
Which are the best VPNs for streaming Apple TV+?
Surfshark is one of the best Apple TV+ VPNs but, like any VPN, it may have issues with some difficult-to-unblock streaming platforms from time-to-time.
If you’re not able to get it working with Apple TV+, you can always try one of these alternative VPNs for streaming Apple TV+:
- NordVPN: Our top choice for streaming Apple TV+. Works with many popular streaming platforms. Good, consistent speeds and a wealth of security extras.
- TotalVPN: a great value VPN that works with Apple TV+ and comes bundled with antivirus for added protection.
- Proton VPN: Privacy-first VPN with a strict no-logs policy. Gives you the option to pay anonymously in cash. One of the largest server networks and works with Apple TV+.
- ExpressVPN: One of the most consistent unblockers of streaming services, Apple TV+ included. A no-logs provider with easy-to-use apps and quality customer support, 24/7.
- IPVanish: Fast speeds for streaming Apple TV+ and is compatible with Netflix. Operates a zero-logs policy and lets you connect all of your devices simultaneously.
- CyberGhost: Servers in 100 countries, making it easy to access any Apple TV+ library. Includes streaming-optimized servers and is one of the fastest VPNs on the market.
- PureVPN: Capable of accessing Apple TV+, Netflix, Hulu, and more. A generous server network that includes specialty servers for streaming. Lots of extras for the price.
- Private Internet Access: More servers than most VPNs and an unlimited simultaneous connection limit. Offers a Smart DNS service as well as ad and malware blocking.
If you want to know more about any of these VPN options, check out our best VPNs for Apple TV article for detailed reviews of each.
WANT TO TRY THE TOP APPLE TV+ VPN RISK-FREE?
NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for Apple TV+ with no restrictions for a month—great when you’re going on vacation and want to continue streaming your favorite shows.
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.
VPN with Apple TV: FAQ
Why do I need a VPN with Apple TV?
Not everyone needs to use a VPN with Apple TV+ but if you’re trying to access it from a country in which it’s not available, or simply want to access your home country’s version when on vacation, a VPN can help. Apple TV+ content is region-locked in these cases but a VPN allows you to spoof your location and sidestep the restrictions.
A VPN also lets you browse more securely and privately. That’s because it encrypts your internet traffic so it can’t be intercepted by snoopers – especially useful if you find yourself using unsecure public wifi networks. The encryption means that your ISP can’t see what you’re doing online and, by extension, your government won’t have access to this data either.
Is there a free VPN I can use with Apple TV+?
No, free VPNs don’t work with Apple TV+. You won’t have many servers or locations to choose from and IP addresses are usually already blocked by streaming platforms. Free VPNs attract a lot of users, which cause heavy server load. Add bandwidth throttling, and you’d almost certainly suffer slow speeds, lag and buffering when streaming.
One of the risks of using a free VPN is that its security may not be quite as comprehensive as that of a reputable VPN service. It might only offer a low level of encryption or lack key features such as a kill switch. This puts your data at risk of being exposed to third parties and cybercriminals. Some free VPNs log and sell your data, your browsing activity included.
How do I change location on Apple TV?
Apple TV runs tvOS, which now supports VPN apps, allowing you to install and use VPNs directly on the device. These include Surfshark, which has an excellent tvOS app and is one of the best VPNs for Apple TV. All you need to do is download a VPN app via Apple TV’s App Store, sign in, and connect to a server in your preferred country. You’ll be automatically assigned an IP address for that country, effectively changing your online location.
Which VPN works best with Apple TV+?
NordVPN is the best VPN for Apple TV+. In fact, it’s the best VPN for Apple TV. Not only does it have one of the best apps for Apple TV, it’s got a huge network of servers, is a highly reliable unblocker, and is packed with extra features. These include specialty P2P and Double VPN servers, a password manager, and even malware protection. Overall, its strong performance and protection make it a great choice for streaming.
Is it legal to use a VPN with Apple TV+?
Apple TV’s Terms of Use doesn’t make specific reference to VPNs or even to location-based restrictions. However, it does go against the terms of most streaming services to use a VPN to bypass geo-blocking. That doesn’t make it illegal, though. VPNs are legal in most countries and are seen as legitimate privacy tools. Although Apple TV+ may block a VPN IP address, it likely won’t take any action against your account for using one.
Note: Though we do extensive research, we are not lawyers, and nothing in this article should be taken as legal advice. Research local laws before using a VPN.
