best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey

WhatsApp and other social media platforms have been blocked in Turkey on several occasions, forcing ISPs to implement restrictions on the government’s behalf. This is disappointing to anyone living in or visiting the country who wants to use the secure messaging app to stay in touch with friends, family, and colleagues. Luckily, a VPN provides you with an easy way to bypass the block and use WhatsApp in Turkey should the block be implemented again.

Short for Virtual Private Network, a VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server in your preferred location. The encryption means that no one, not your ISP nor any other snoopers, can read the contents of your traffic, while the location spoofing allows you to access geographically restricted sites and services.

Not all VPN services are capable of bypassing the WhatsApp restrictions in Turkey, but some are, and we’ve listed the best ones for you here. We’ll go into more detail about each of them below, but in case you’re short on time, we’ll start with a quick summary.

Best WhatsApp VPN for Turkey

  1. NordVPN: Our first choice VPN for use with WhatsApp in Turkey. Top-notch security features and exceptional unblocking ability. Also includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Surfshark: This low-cost provider helps you easily access blocked apps and protect all of your devices simultaneously. Boasts fast, reliable connections and servers in 100+ countries.
  3. ExpressVPN: An extremely fast, reliable, and secure VPN with servers in 100+ countries, including Turkey. Knowledgeable customer service is on hand 24/7.
  4. CyberGhost: Quick, easy to use, and fantastic for anyone looking to access WhatsApp in Turkey. Offers free 24/7 support over live chat.
  5. PrivateVPN: A small network of servers doesn’t hold this provider back from offering fast speeds and great unblocking abilities. Allows 10 simultaneous devices.
  6. Private Internet Access: A no-logs VPN that can bypass all but the strictest online censorship. Allows you to use WhatsApp, Facebook, and more abroad.

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How we selected the top WhatsApp VPNs

There’s a huge selection of VPNs to choose from, but not all work in Turkey to unblock WhatsApp. Even those that do differ on factors such as speed and security. To take the guesswork out of it for you, we chose our best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey based on the following criteria:

  • Works reliably in Turkey and can consistently access WhatsApp
  • Operates a global network of servers in locations where WhatsApp has never been restricted
  • Boasts fast enough speeds for uninterrupted VoIP calls and streaming
  • Doesn’t keep user logs
  • Utilizes strong security and encryption
  • Offers excellent customer support

This is just an overview, you can read more about how we test our VPNs in the methodology section below. But for now, let’s dive into the VPNs that made the grade.

The best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey: 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 WhatsApp.

No valueNordVPNSurfsharkExpressVPNCyberGhostPrivateVPNPrivate Internet Access
WebsiteNordVPN.comSurfshark.comExpressVPN.comCyberghost.comPrivateVPN.comPrivateInternetAccess.com
Ranking for WhatsApp:123456
Devices SupportedWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, LinuxWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TVWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, RoutersWindows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, AndroidWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TVWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux
Avg Speed (Mbps)100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps39 Mbps100+ Mbps
Streaming ServicesNetflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
BBC iPlayer
Disney+
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
BBC iPlayer
Disney+
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
BBC iPlayer
Disney+
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Popular Sites Unblocked95%88%86%85%85%70%
Total number of servers6,000+3,200Undisclosed11,000+200+Undisclosed
Best deal (per month)$3.09
Up to 69% off + 3 months FREE
$2.29
Save 85% on a 2 year Starter plan
$6.67
SAVE: 49% + 3 months free
$2.03
SAVE 84% on the 2 year plan
$2.00
Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free
$2.03
SAVE 83% on the 2 yr plan

Best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey

At Comparitech, we strive to bring you the best and most accurate VPN advice possible. In order to do that, we personally use every provider and put them through rigorous real-world testing. The following reviews are based on those first-hand experiences.

Here’s our list of the best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN Mar 2024 unblocks WhatsappTested Mar 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is the best option for unblocking WhatsApp in Turkey. It has an expansive network, with over 5,500 servers in around 60 countries, including Turkey. One of its main selling points is its ability to bypass censorship and geo-restriction measures. It works across the globe, including in Turkey, China, and other restrictive countries that impose VPN blocks, so you can access WhatsApp, Skype, and other communication apps from anywhere. It also helps you securely access multiple Netflix libraries, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

Another attractive aspect of this VPN is its suite of security features. Aside from effectively uncrackable encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch (in all apps except Android), you get automatic wifi protection, a dark web monitor, and the ability to remotely connect to other devices (such as a PC back home). Best of all, NordVPN has an independently audited no-logs policy. Live chat-based support is always available to help.

NordVPN allows up to six simultaneous connections. Apps are available for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV, while you can also find extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browsers. You can even manually set up a VPN connection on select routers.

Pros:

  • Expansive global server network
  • Great at unblocking
  • Strong security features
  • No-logs provider
  • Knowledgable customer support 24/7
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • Desktop app takes a little getting used to

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BEST VPN FOR WHATSAPP IN TURKEY:NordVPN is our first choice for users looking to chat securely while in Turkey. It keeps no logs and protects your internet traffic with lots of security features. Plans include a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark unblocks WhatsappTested Mar 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Surfshark.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Surfshark is the best budget option for using WhatsApp in Turkey. This provider has recently expanded its network and now offers access to more than 3,200 servers in 100 countries. Not only that, it’s one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested and includes a NoBorders mode that can help users access WhatsApp and other blocked apps while in Turkey. There’s also no limit on the number of devices you can connect.

Security features include 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch in all apps, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. Extras include split tunneling, malware protection, and a feature that changes your IP address at fixed intervals. Connecting to a MultiHop server ensures your data receives two or more layers of encryption. This VPN keeps no logs whatsoever and provides 24/7 support.

Surfshark apps can be found for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. Chrome and Firefox extensions are also available to download. Last but not least, Surfshark can even be manually installed on compatible routers.

Pros:

  • Servers in around 100 countries
  • Unblocks most websites and apps
  • Provides fast, secure connections
  • No device limit
  • Doesn’t keep logs

Cons:

  • Some features require an additional monthly payment

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is our top low-cost option. Great for browsing and video-calling anonymously in Turkey. Allows unlimited simultaneous connections. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN unblocks WhatsappTested Mar 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN operates a network of over 3,000 servers in 100+ countries and has an excellent reputation for evading government censorship across the globe, including in Turkey. ExpressVPN will help you access all your favorite apps from within the country, including WhatsApp, Skype, and Twitter. It’s also great at unblocking streaming platforms such as Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. Speeds are blazing fast, making this an ideal choice for VoIP calling.

This provider uses 256-bit encryption in conjunction with perfect forward secrecy and protection against DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks. Additionally, a kill switch is built into the desktop apps. ExpressVPN doesn’t log any personally-identifiable info and added a threat manager that can stop your apps from sending data to known trackers. Support is available around the clock should you need any help.

Native apps are provided for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. You can also find apps for Amazon Fire TV and Android TV, while browser extensions are offered for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari. What’s more, this VPN has its own router firmware, making it easy to protect a whole network.

Pros:

  • Works reliably across the globe
  • Unblocks WhatsApp and other platforms
  • Offers extremely fast speeds
  • Provides secure and private connections
  • 24/7 live customer chat support

Cons:

  • Price is a bit higher than that of rivals
  • Lack of advanced configuration options

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

FAST AND RELIABLE:ExpressVPN is a great pick for WhatsApp in Turkey. This VPN is fast, secure, and versatile, plus it comes with excellent customer support. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

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4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost unblocks WhatsappTested Mar 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost certainly has plenty to offer privacy-conscious travelers. First off, it boasts a huge network, with almost 10,000 servers in 100+ countries. Some of these are even designed for specific tasks like streaming, browsing anonymously, or torrenting. Additionally, this VPN has first-class speeds, averaging roughly 300 Mbps in our latest tests. A maximum of seven devices can be secured simultaneously.

Users can take advantage of 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks, plus automatic ad-blocking. You can also connect via a random port, which might help you evade particularly strict VPN-blocking systems. CyberGhost doesn’t log any data that could be traced back to you. Having problems? Just get in touch using the free 24/7 live chat service.

CyberGhost apps are available for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. While there isn’t an app for routers, you can manually configure a connection with compatible wifi routers.

Pros:

  • No issues accessing WhatsApp in Turkey
  • Testing revealed impressive server speeds
  • Tells you which servers are good for a particular task
  • Solid privacy and security features enabled by default
  • 45-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • Doesn’t work in China or the UAE
  • Better suited to beginners than power users

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

IDEAL FOR BEGINNERS:CyberGhost is a novice-friendly service with truly impressive speed, security, and unblocking ability. Great for regaining access to services like WhatsApp while in Turkey. Has a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

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5. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN unblocks WhatsappTested Mar 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.PrivateVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

PrivateVPN has a much smaller network (200 servers in 60+ countries) than the other providers on this list, but it manages to keep up from a performance standpoint. This service works reliably, even in countries where VPN blocks are imposed, Turkey included. PrivateVPN will assist you in unblocking WhatsApp and other apps and can help you access streaming and gaming sites too. If it doesn’t work out of the box, you can use the “Stealth VPN” feature, which is designed to evade online censorship.

This service doesn’t disappoint on the online privacy and security front. It’s actually its own ISP and hosting provider, meaning there’s almost no chance of outside interference. Further, the apps include 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. If you’re having trouble accessing your usual services, just activate the Stealth mode. PrivateVPN keeps no logs whatsoever. Live chat support is available at most times of the day.

Secure up to six devices simultaneously via PrivateVPN apps for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. You can use PrivateVPN with Linux and select routers but this does require manual setup.

Pros:

  • Strong unblocking abilities
  • Fast speeds
  • Secure and private
  • Allows 10 simultaneous connections

Cons:

  • Small server network
  • Live chat isn’t always available

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

PRIVATE NETWORK:PrivateVPN is focused on user security and privacy, and delivering fast, reliable connections. Allows 10 connections at once. It offers users a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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6. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

Website:  www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a solid choice for bypassing country restrictions on WhatsApp in Turkey. Offering a seamless blend of security and accessibility, PIA provides an extensive server network with an impressive range of 10,000 to 35,000 servers across 84+ countries. This expansive coverage is crucial for users in Turkey, ensuring reliable and diverse connection options to bypass local restrictions on WhatsApp.

As well as accessing WhatsApp in Turkey, PIA’s robust server network and unlimited bandwidth pave the way for accessing popular streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime.

Security-wise, PIA doesn’t skimp. With 256-bit AES encryption and support for OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, users enjoy a secure connection that guards against potential breaches. The VPN also offers a no-logs policy and DNS leak protection, which ensures your real IP address remains hidden. This is especially important in Turkey, where digital surveillance can be a concern.

PIA caters to a broad user base across various platforms like Windows, macOS, and Linux. 

Pros:

  • Supports WireGuard
  • Vast network of 30,000+ servers in 84 countries
  • Offers numerous options for personalizing the settings

Cons:

  • Based in a Five Eyes Alliance Country
  • Settings may be a little complex for new users

Our score:

4 out of 5

WIREGUARD READY:Private Internet Access allows unlimited device connections, includes a kill switch, and has servers in 84+ countries. It offers users a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Private Internet Access review.

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How to access WhatsApp in Turkey

Even if you’ve never used a VPN before, getting set up is simple. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll be making WhatsApp calls from Turkey in no time.

Here’s how to access WhatsApp in Turkey with a VPN:

  1. Choose a VPN provider and pay for your subscription. We recommend NordVPN.
  2. Download and install the app making sure to get the right version for your devices.
  3. Log in to the app and connect to a server in a country where WhatsApp is not restricted – such as the US.
  4. Now launch WhatsApp, and you should be able to use the service as normal.
  5. If you run into issues, consult your VPN knowledge base or customer support team for help with troubleshooting. It may be that you need to connect to a different server or change the VPN settings.

Methodology: Finding the best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey

When you’re traveling in a country with severe online restrictions like Turkey, it’s vital you have a VPN you can trust. Not only that, it has to be able to handle any day-to-day task without breaking a sweat. With this in mind, we created a short list of requirements that our top VPNs had to meet:

  • Security and privacy: Turkey’s widespread online censorship and surveillance mean anonymity must be our top priority. That’s why the VPNs we recommend must include 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a no-logs policy at a bare minimum. Any other tools that help protect your online privacy (such as stealth modes or tracker-blockers) are greatly appreciated.
  • Unblocking ability: First off, your VPN has to be able to beat the Turkish government’s restrictions. Further, we looked for VPN services that worked with geo-blocked platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, and Prime Video. After all, if you can access these abroad, you can likely access most other services too.
  • Speed: Slow speeds lead to dropped calls, low-quality audio, and stuttering video. As such, we decided to only recommend services that performed well during our most recent VPN speed tests.
  • Server choice: Your VPN must have servers in locations with no online censorship. However, we also looked for those with Turkish servers since these will allow locals to continue using Turkey-only platforms while traveling.
  • User-friendliness: The simpler your VPN is to use, the more likely you are to actually rely on it. Ideally, there’d be no connection limit, task-specific servers, and streamlined apps, as well as free 24/7 live chat.
  • Value for money: There are so many VPNs on the market, many of which fail to unblock WhatsApp in Turkey. Despite this, many of these VPNs are more expensive than those listed in this post. Besides, we’ve included VPN discount coupons so you can save even more. All of the best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey also include a risk-free money-back guarantee of at least 30 days.

This is far from the only testing we do. To learn more, check out our full VPN testing methodology post.

Using WhatsApp in Turkey: FAQs

Can I use a free VPN for WhatsApp in Turkey?

In short, no. To start, a free VPN likely won’t work in Turkey to unblock WhatsApp. Free VPNs don’t have the resources to invest in the technology required to evade government censorship, so your connection will likely be detected and blocked.

Even if you do manage to find a free VPN that works in Turkey, there are other issues you’ll have to deal with. Their connections tend to be painfully slow and subject to dropping at any time. You’ll also have low data caps and bandwidth limits, so VoIP calling is probably a no-go.

Aside from violating your privacy, many free VPNs dupe you in other ways. While they claim to secure your VPN traffic, some use weak encryption, while others don’t actually encrypt your traffic at all, and others collect your data to be sold to third parties. Furthermore, if you’re looking for features like a kill switch and leak protection, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

For a seamless experience, you’re best off paying a small monthly fee for a full-featured VPN.

Why is WhatsApp blocked in Turkey?

WhatsApp isn’t currently blocked in Turkey on an official or permanent basis. But it has been blocked or restricted in the past, and it may be again, particularly during times of political unrest. The most recent WhatsApp block in Turkey was rolled out in February 2020. At this time, users reportedly had no access to WhatsApp and other apps, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Does NordVPN have servers in Ankara?

NordVPN doesn’t operate any servers in Ankara, Turkey. Fortunately, it does have multiple servers (8 at the time of writing) located in the city of Istanbul.

If you’re located in Ankara, you’ll still be able to connect to a NordVPN server in Istanbul and expect a strong connection. The two cities are only 300 kilometers apart and, generally speaking, the closer a server to your physical location, the faster your connection is likely to be.

Will my WhatsApp account be banned if I use it in Turkey with a VPN?

No, there is no record of WhatsApp banning accounts either for accessing its service from Turkey, or using a VPN to do so. WhatsApp is legal in Turkey so you shouldn’t have any issues from WhatsApp or the Turkish government for using it within the country. Of course, WhatsApp users can still have their accounts banned for other reasons such as sending spam or sharing inappropriate content.

Can I use a Turkish telephone number with Whatsapp?

Turkish telephone numbers can be used with WhatsApp, but you will need first to change the number format to include the country code (+90). As such, you’ll need to start with +90 followed by the full phone number.

Can I video chat on WhatsApp in Turkey?

Yes, you are able to video chat on WhatsApp in Turkey, but only if you use a VPN. This is due to the restrictions in place and blocks that prevent you from using the app. It’s not possible to use WhatsApp Video chat without a VPN.

Which websites and services are banned in Turkey?

Almost half a million websites were banned in Turkey by the end of 2021. Some of the websites and services that have been blocked in Turkey include Facebook, Instagram, Tidal, Twitter, WhatsApp, and Wikipedia.

There are many different reasons for limits on content in Turkey and this includes the following:

  • Material criticial of the government
  • Pro-atheist or anti-Islamic content
  • Pornography
  • File-sharing
  • Information on VPNs, privacy, and beating censorship
  • Left-wing journalism
  • Free exchange of information

Are VPNs legal in Turkey?

At the time of writing, VPNs remain completely legal in Turkey. However, the government has blocked access to many of the top providers’ websites, so signing up might present a challenge. Here’s the good news: many of the blocked VPNs are actually quite good at bypassing internet censorship, so if you install them before arriving, you shouldn’t have any issues.

Will using a VPN with WhatsApp Improve the Voice Quality?

The main advantages of using a VPN with WhatsApp is being able to unblock the service as well as enjoy security and privacy-related benefits. Generally speaking, using a VPN with WhatsApp won’t improve call quality, be it video or voice. However, you may notice an improvement if you were suffering from slow speeds due to ISP throttling, particularly if you use a fast VPN that offers unlimited bandwidth.

Related: ExpressVPN server seized in Turkey turns up nothing in assassination case, verifying “no logs” policy