Best UK VPNs for Expats

Are you a British expat struggling to access your favorite UK services while abroad? Are you blocked from streaming BBC iPlayer or making Skype calls? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Discover the solution to bypassing regional restrictions and protecting yourself with a UK VPN (Virtual Private Network).

From our experience, connecting to a VPN can ensure your online safety through encrypted network traffic. This means your Internet Service Provider (ISP), hackers, or any prying eyes won’t be able to decipher your online activities. Additionally, when you route your internet traffic through one of your VPN’s British servers, geo-restricted websites won’t even realize you’re an expat located outside the UK. Say goodbye to online limitations and stay connected to your favorite content no matter where you are.

For those of you who want to cut straight to the chase, here are our best VPNs for use in the UK or to access UK content and TV from outside the UK:

  1. NordVPN: Our #1 choice for UK expats! Best VPN for both those in the UK and outside the UK who want to access UK content. Works with BBC iPlayer, Netflix, SkyGo and most other UK and international TV streaming video services. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee. TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for expats.
  2. Surfshark: The best low-cost option for streaming British TV abroad. No-logs provider with powerful security features. Connect as many streaming devices as you like with unlimited simultaneous connections.
  3. ExpressVPN: Solid choice for streaming UK TV abroad. Veteran provider with a great reputation for privacy and security. Works with most British channels including Channel 5 and Sky Sports.
  4. CyberGhost: Beginner friendly UK expat VPN. Suitable for expats streaming British TV online. Has a huge network of servers and strong privacy features.
  5. Private Internet Access: Fast connection speeds and good privacy features. Works with several British streaming platforms, iPlayer and Channel 4 included.
  6. PrivateVPN: An increasingly popular service with fast connection speeds. Good for streaming British sports content and TV channels. Great for online privacy.
  7. PureVPN: An affordable option for UK expats accessing iPlayer, ITVX, and other streaming platforms from abroad. Fantastic speeds.
  8. ProtonVPN: Wireguard implementation perfect for expats that want to stream or game from abroad. Many advanced security features.

WANT TO TRY THE TOP 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 UK expats without restriction for a month. In other words, it's great for unblocking services from back home.

There are no hidden terms—just let customer support know within 30 days if you aren't fully satisfied and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.

Our criteria for the best UK VPNs for expats

There are numerous VPN services to choose from but not all of them are suitable for streaming British content. To find the best VPN services for UK expats, we looked for services with the following qualities:

  • Unblocks popular UK streaming services (BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4)
  • Fast connection speeds and several UK servers to choose from
  • A high level of security, including strong AES 256-bit encryption
  • Minimal logging or preferably, no logging whatsoever
  • A generous allowance of simultaneous device connections (unlimited is preferred)
  • Apps for IOS, Android, PC, Mac, and more
  • Good and responsive customer service

We explain more about our UK expat VPN testing methodology below.

Best VPNs for UK Expats – Our hands-on review

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for UK Expats.

No valueNordVPNSurfsharkExpressVPNCyberGhostPrivate Internet AccessPrivateVPNPureVPNProtonVPN
WebsiteNordVPN.comSurfshark.comExpressVPN.comCyberghost.comPrivateInternetAccess.comPrivateVPN.comPureVPN.comprotonvpn.com
Ranking for UK12345678
UK servers440+ servers3 cities4 locations3 cities / 690+ servers100+5 cities / 111 servers4 cities / 160+ servers3 servers
Streaming servicesBBC iPlayer
Netflix (US, UK + more)
ITV Hub
Sky Go
All 4
BBC iPlayer
Netflix UK
ITV Hub
Sky Go
All 4
Netflix UK
ITV Hub
Sky Go
All 4
BBC iPlayer
ITV Hub
All 4
BBC iPlayer
ITV Hub
All 4
BBC iPlayer
ITV Hub
All 4
BBC iPlayer
ITV Hub
All 4
BBC iPlayer
ITV Hub
All 4
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, LinuxWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TVWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Chromebook, RoutersWindows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Chromebook
Avg Speed (UK)100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps20 Mbps324 Mbps100+ Mbps
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
$2.03
SAVE 83% on the 2 yr plan
$2.00
Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free
$1.96
84% off the 2-yr standard plan + 4/mo free
$4.99
SAVE 50% on a 2-year plan

Best VPNs for UK Expats

Based on extensive testing, here is our full list of the best VPNs for UK expats:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN Mar 2024

Apps Available:

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

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN offers a staggering 600+ UK-based servers. It can unblock all the major British streaming platforms including BBC iPlayer, Netflix UK, ITV Hub, Sky Go, and All 4. Every server is optimized for HD streaming, and this VPN’s speeds are the fastest we’ve seen, so content should play without any buffering or stuttering. No limit to what you can watch with unlimited data included as standard. The expat standard in 2022.

NordVPN even lets you access Facebook from within China. With six simultaneous connections allowed, you can protect an entire household and stream from whichever device you prefer.

This VPN simplifies online security by including an ad-blocker and anti-malware functionality. It features 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and an application-specific kill switch. It’s great for privacy-conscious users with its no-logging policy and subscriptions can be paid for in bitcoin.

NordVPN has apps for Windows, Linux, Android, MacOS, and iOS. It can be manually configured to work with selected routers.

NordVPN speed test data

No valueNordVPN
WebsiteNordVPN.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)354 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)262 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)284 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$3.09
Up to 69% off + 3 months FREE

Pros:

  • Extremely fast – great for streaming
  • Excellent value for money
  • Strong device security and privacy features
  • Accepts three cryptocurrencies
  • Keeps no logs

Cons:

  • The desktop app can be slow to connect

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BEST VPN FOR BRITISH TV:NordVPN is our top choice. It works well with all the major streaming services including BBC iPlayer and Netflix, plus it boasts extremely high speeds and a 30-day money-back guarantee that lets you try it risk-free.

Read our full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Surfshark.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Surfshark operates server locations in London and Manchester. Either one is capable of unblocking popular UK streaming sites including BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, Netflix UK, and Sky Go. Best of all, Surfshark doesn’t put a limit on how many connected devices you have. That makes it a great budget option for a family or group of flatmates.

On top of its cord-cutting prowess, Surfshark uses strong encryption and adheres to a no-logs policy, so your privacy is secured. Torrenting is allowed and kill switches can prevent user data leaks on both desktop and mobile phones/devices. If you encounter any issues, live chat support is available around the clock.

Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.

Surfshark speed test data

No valueSurfshark
WebsiteSurfshark.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)521 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)702 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)561 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$2.29
Save 85% on a 2 year Starter plan

Pros:

  • Unblocks Sky Go, Netflix US & UK, and more
  • Fast enough for flawless streaming
  • Unlimited bandwidth and devices
  • Keeps personal information safe from prying eyes
  • Zero-logs provider

Cons:

  • Server network is smaller than most other VPNs
  • Some slow speeds recorded during testing

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BEST BUDGET VPN:Affordable and security-conscious, Surfshark ensures you’ll never have to trade privacy for convenience. Expats can connect as many devices as you like and stream UK-only video from anywhere. 30-day money-back guarantee included.

Read our full Surfshark review.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN has several British servers and can unblock popular services like Skype, Netflix UK, and ITV Hub, Sky Go, and BT Sport. You can easily change your real IP address to make it appear as if you are browsing from the UK, or you can select a server in a location of your choice to access other blocked content abroad. Its server networks are fast enough to play HD video without any noticeable buffering, and with unlimited data, it’s a strong choice for watching British TV from abroad.

This provider takes privacy seriously. It uses 256-bit military-grade encryption and perfect forward secrecy to keep your online activities secure. There’s also a kill switch and DNS leak protection, and no logs are maintained that can be traced to an individual user. Further, ExpressVPN accepts bitcoin payments and has an optional .onion site for those who want to remain as anonymous as possible.

Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Manual configuration is required for supported wireless routers.

ExpressVPN speed test data

No valueExpressVPN
WebsiteExpressVPN.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)319 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)303 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)278 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$6.67
SAVE: 49% + 3 months free

Pros:

  • Works with ITV Hub, Sky Go, and other British TV content
  • Works with other streaming services including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu and many more
  • Fast and reliable connection speeds
  • Great privacy and security features

Cons:

  • A little more expensive than some rivals
  • Doesn’t provide much control over advanced features

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

HIGHLY VERSATILE:ExpressVPN is quick and reliable with a strong security focus, a large network, and great unblocking ability. It even comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you change your mind.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

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4. CyberGhost

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost has more than 1,000 servers in the UK, perfect for a British IP address. It offers a simple, user-friendly interface that allows you to select servers optimized for a specific purpose. Options include unblocking sites — such as BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, and Eurosport — or web browsing anonymously on platforms like Facebook. With consistent connections and fast speeds, streaming UK TV isn’t a problem at all.

CyberGhost, like NordVPN, offers anti-malware and ad-blocking features. It utilizes 256-bit encryption, automatic HTTPS redirection, an internet kill switch, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and port forwarding leaks to keep its customers safe. With up to seven connections permitted per account and live customer support in case of any issues,

CyberGhost takes the inconvenience out of using a VPN. Apps are available for MacOS, Windows, Android, Linux and iOS. CyberGhost can be manually installed on certain network routers.

CyberGhost speed test data

No valueCyberGhost
WebsiteCyberghost.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)449 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)269 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)167 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$2.03
SAVE 84% on the 2 year plan

Pros:

  • Fast download speeds
  • Works with most streaming services
  • Easy to use apps
  • Very reasonable price

Cons:

  • Doesn’t work well in China
  • May be too simplistic for advanced users

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

Beginner friendly apps:CyberGhost is fast and affordable. It has a simple set up with strong privacy credentials. Streams HD video reliably. 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

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5. 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)  has an incredibly large network consisting of over 10,000 servers in 80+ countries. This includes numerous UK server locations that can be used to access geo-restricted services like Skype, WhatsApp, BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, All 4, ITV Hub, and My5.

Its WireGuard implementation also makes it one of the fastest VPNs around; great for gaming, torrenting, and streaming British TV abroad in HD and without worrying about long buffer times or stuttering playback.

PIA is one of the most secure and customizable VPNs on the market. It provides 256-bit AES encryption and offers several additional device security options, including IPv6 and DNS leak protection,  a kill switch, and a Shadowsocks proxy for those who need it.

While being based in the US may be enough to put the more privacy-conscious user off this service, it is worth noting that it has a watertight no logs policy it has proven in court. This means that even if it is served a warrant it never has anything invasive that identifies its users’ online habits.

Dedicated apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and you can set up the VPN on various VPN-compatible routers. It allows 10 simultaneous connections and you can try it out yourself using its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Private Internet Access speed test data

No valuePrivate Internet Access
WebsitePrivateInternetAccess.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)93 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)58 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)200 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$2.03
SAVE 83% on the 2 yr plan

Pros:

  • Fast download speeds
  • Allows torrenting
  • Allows 10 connections
  • Highly customizable
  • Works with iPlayer, ITV Hub, and more

Cons:

  • No obfuscation feature, which may be useful in some countries

Our score:

4 out of 5

GREAT FOR PRIVACY:PIA is fast and secure. It has over 10,000 servers in 80+ countries, including the UK. WOrks to access internet banking, streaming services, Skype, Facebook, and much more. Apps for all platforms with advanced privacy features and settings. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PIA review.

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6. PrivateVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.PrivateVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

PrivateVPN only offers four UK servers (all located in England) but is fast enough to stream HD content with no noticeable buffering. It can unblock BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, and even permits access to the British Netflix library, something many other VPNs struggle to do.

Up to six simultaneous connections are allowed per account. This VPN offers 256-bit encryption, an internet kill switch, a no-logging policy, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. 24/7 live chat support is available, albeit with slightly longer response times outside of office hours. With your permission, the staff can even take control of your device and set everything up for you.

PrivateVPN has dedicated apps for MacOS, Windows, Android, and iOS. Linux and some routers are also supported but manual configuration is required.

PrivateVPN speed test data

No valuePrivateVPN
WebsitePrivateVPN.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)94 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)57 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)62 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$2.00
Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free

Pros:

  • Good speeds
  • Works well with most streaming services
  • Great unblocking ability

Cons:

  • Small network of servers
  • Live chat isn’t 24/7

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

FAST SPEEDS:PrivateVPN offers fast speeds Although a newcomer, this VPN performs well for unblocking streaming sites and scored highly in our speed tests. Reliable but a bit pricey. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

PrivateVPN Coupon
Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free
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7. PureVPN

PureVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.PureVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS

PureVPN is an outstanding option for British expats longing for a slice of home TV. Its UK servers enable international access to UK internet banking, government gateways, or simply to browse the web via Google with results catered to a British audience.

Its unfettered ability to provide access to British streaming services, including BBC iPlayer, Channel 4, ITVX, and Netflix UK, makes it an impressive option for British expats, especially considering the low cost of a subscription. You can easily use it to get a fix of Countdown, Eastenders, BBC News, Match of the Day – or whatever else takes your fancy.

PureVPN offers impressive average global download speeds of around 400 Mbps, thanks to the state-of-the-art WireGuard technology. This makes it one of the fastest VPNs currently available on the market – perfect for gaming, streaming, torrenting, and making video calls. Just bear in mind that you do have to pay a bit extra for port forwarding.

Security is excellent with PureVPN. The apps come equipped with AES encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak prevention, and a strict no-logging policy. These features are crucial for ex-pats who need secure access to British internet resources – or who want to be safe when using public WiFi while abroad.

Although the response time of the live chat support could be improved, this doesn’t take away from its ability to provide access to British internet services from abroad. The VPN’s 31-day money-back means you can feel free to test it yourself on any device.

PureVPN speed test data

No valuePureVPN
WebsitePureVPN.com
Avg Speed (US)628 Mbps
Avg Speed (UK)324 Mbps
Avg Speed (Asia)246 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$1.96
84% off the 2-yr standard plan + 4/mo free

Pros:

  • Fast Tier 1 server network and the WireGuard protocol for impressive performance
  • Independently audited no-logging policy
  • Works with British TV platforms, Netflix, and international services too
  • User-friendly apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more
  • 31-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • Customer support can be slow to respond
  • Additional charge for port forwarding

Our score:

2 out of 5

AMAZING VALUE:PureVPN makes it cheap to access BBC iPlayer and other British TV platforms abroad. Easy to use on all devices. Rock spoiled no-logs policy and robust AES-256 encryption.Comes with a 31-day money-back guarantee to test it yourself. Only costs a couple of quid per month.

Find out more in our full PureVPN review.

PureVPN Coupon
84% off the 2-yr standard plan + 4/mo free
Get Deal >
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8. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN Mar 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.protonvpn.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ProtonVPN is headquartered in Switzerland, a country that has superb privacy laws and no mandatory data retention directives that apply to VPNs. The VPN not only boasts a sterling reputation but also demonstrates a deep commitment to security. It comes with advanced features such as AES encryption, a kill switch, and a range of protocols, reflecting its focus on data security and user privacy.

Besides offering a no-logs policy and strong VPN protocols like OpenVPN, ProtonVPN can access a wide array of streaming services, making it an ideal choice for viewers of British channels like BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, and British Netflix, as well as American favorites like Hulu, Netflix US, and HBO Max.

Advanced users or people living in regimes with a lot of surveillance and censorship will be happy to find advanced functions like obfuscation, split tunneling, multi-hop connections, Secure Core servers, and Tor over VPN. Just note that these extras do make the VPN slightly more expensive than some of its competitors.

To provide transparency and trust for its users. ProtonVPN has paid for a full third-party audit of its policies and apps. This increases trust in the VPN for sensitive tasks like watching iPlayer at work, or bypassing censorship without worrying about being tracked.

Live chat support is available in the members area of the website and the agents offer excellent expertise. A fantastic all-rounder that is perfect for those who want to torrent or don’t mind paying extra for a wider feature set. You can test it using its 30-day money-back guarantee.

ProtonVPN speed test data

No valueProtonVPN
Websiteprotonvpn.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)390 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)306 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)295 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$4.99
SAVE 50% on a 2-year plan

Pros:

  • Fast servers and the Wireguard protocol for streaming and gaming
  • Effective for accessing multiple Netflix regions
  • Robust encryption and strict no-logs policy
  • Abundance of advanced features including port forwarding
  • Works to access British streams and gaming servers

Cons:

  • A touch expensive
  • May not be the most user-friendly option for beginners

Our score:

4 out of 5

FULLY FEATURED:ProtonVPN caters to tech-savvy users who torrent, host servers, or need advanced privacy features. With servers available in over 85+ countries, it’s ideal for bypassing restrictions to watch iPlayer and other UK TV services abroad. 24/7 live chat support in the member’s area. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our full ProtonVPN review.

ProtonVPN Coupon
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Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for UK expats

From our years of experience, we’ve carefully considered the unique needs that people in your position face and determined which aspects of a UK VPN are the most important. You’ll find a breakdown of our reasoning below:

  • British servers: If you don’t have access to servers in the UK, you won’t be able to unblock UK-only platforms like ITV Hub. We favored providers with servers in more than one UK country, since these allow you to access a far wider range of services.
  • Speed: Speed is vital, especially if you’re planning to stream live TV. We perform regular speed tests on 30+ different VPNs; to ensure you have the best possible experience, we only recommend those that provide consistently high speeds and reliable connections.
  • Streaming ability: Not every VPN works with every service. Plenty struggle with BBC iPlayer, for example. We put all of our potential recommendations up against popular services like Netflix UK, ITV Hub (and STV Player), All 4, and Disney+ to see which are best for expats looking to watch TV from back home.
  • Ease of use: You shouldn’t have to be a computer expert to browse the web safely. All of our top VPNs must be easy enough for a complete beginner to use. Ideally, they’d provide setup guides, live chat-based support, and an expansive help section on the website.
  • Value for money: Some providers think they can charge more than their services are worth, simply because they have a recognizable name or because their users don’t really know how much similar services cost. We evaluate each VPN’s features, compare their pricing options, and recommend only those that are priced fairly.
  • Security and privacy toolkit: These services are, first and foremost, privacy tools. The VPNs we recommend must have, at a minimum, bulletproof encryption, a no-logs policy, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. We tend to favor providers that go above and beyond in this area, since attackers’ methods are always evolving.
  • Apps and devices: Each VPN should have apps for popular devices so you can stream your favorite British TV and movies on the go on any platform. We look for compatibility with PC, Macs, iPhones, Androids, and more. We also look at how many simultaneous devices are supported so that you can share your subscription with other household members.

This is just a small taste of our larger VPN testing plan. Because we perform regular tests, we’re able to analyze the differences in each service over time, and tweak our recommendations to better suit our readers’ needs.

Can I use a free VPN to access British streaming platforms?

Although you might be tempted to use a free VPN for accessing UK-based streaming services, we advise against it. Some organizations, like the BBC, have taken steps to prevent VPN users from watching their content, so in all likelihood, a free VPN just won’t work. Also, these services are almost always slower than their paid-for counterparts. This means that even if you do manage to gain access, the streaming video playback may be choppy or buffer endlessly.

As free VPN services can’t charge their users directly, they’ve been known to rely on shady tactics to generate income. These include injecting targeted ads on the pages you visit, selling your browsing habits to third parties, and using tracking cookies to keep tabs on you even after you disconnect.

Unfortunately, free VPNs have a proven track record of misleading their users. In recent years, these services have been caught coming bundled with malware and even going as far as to sell their users’ bandwidth for use in botnets. To protect yourself and your private information, we highly recommend using a reputable VPN service with a focus on customer privacy. If you only need a VPN for a short amount of time, however, all the VPNs on this list offer a money-back-guarantee meaning you can use it for around a month (depending on the VPN) and then ask for a full refund.

Useful guides to watching British TV abroad:

How to watch UK TV online from anywhere

If this is your first time using a VPN you’ll be happy to know getting set up is a quick and simple process. Below we reveal how to start watching UK TV from abroad in less than 2 minutes.

Here’s how to watch UK TV online from abroad:

  1. Sign up to one of the VPN services listed above (we recommend NordVPN).
  2. Download and install the appropriate VPN app for your device. There will be a few different versions, so be sure to get the right one for your operating system.
  3. Connect to a server in the UK to get a UK IP Address.
  4. Try watching geo-restricted content on your usual sites such as All 4 or BBC iPlayer. It should load quickly with minimal, if any, buffering. Note that you may have to clear your cookies and reload the page to see any changes.

Video: How to watch UK TV abroad with a VPN (includes tips and troubleshooting).

What else can I do with a VPN?

There are so many uses for a VPN. Aside from having problems accessing streaming channels while abroad, you may find that some governments prevent access to certain websites. Usually, only sites with extremist or illegal content are blocked, but in some cases, geographic blocking is used to enforce internet censorship (such as with China’s Great Firewall) or prevent people from contacting others outside of the country.

A VPN will allow you to access blocked services like Skype or Facebook so you can communicate with your friends and family. That said, it’s important to know that some countries, such as China and the United Arab Emirates, have laws against using a VPN. For this reason, we advise researching your country’s VPN legislation before attempting to use one.

Which services are blocked?

Depending on where you live, you might find that the services you’ve come to rely on are blocked by the local government. The specific sites differ from one region to another, but if you live in China, Russia, Sri Lanka, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, or Iran, you may be unable to access the following services:

  1. Facebook
  2. WhatsApp
  3. Skype
  4. YouTube
  5. Instagram
  6. Twitter
  7. Telegram
  8. Google and Gmail

We have a more detailed list of sites blocked in China here.

Additionally, these countries tend to censor sites dedicated to the following things:

  1. News that is critical of the government
  2. Gambling
  3. Adult content
  4. Free exchange of information (Wikipedia, Reddit, etc)
  5. VPNs and internet privacy

Why can’t I access a specific site?

iplayer VPN warning

All of the VPNs above have been confirmed to work with the most popular British streaming platforms. That said, the companies behind these services have invested lots of time and effort into preventing VPN users from accessing their content.

Recently, streaming platforms have begun blocking IP addresses known to belong to VPN providers. As such, you may find yourself unable to stream content from geo-locked sites, even when connected to a British server with a UK IP address.

The good news is that it’s very rare for these sites to account for every suitable IP address. The solution is often as simple as switching to a different server in the same country. Some VPNs even provide the ability to switch IP addresses with the touch of a button. If you still have issues, you can contact a customer support agent who can direct you to a working server or run you through some troubleshooting steps.

Why can’t I watch a specific show or channel?

Some platforms have specific web players for individual parts of the UK. For instance, ITV Hub redirects Scottish viewers to the STV Player. If you’ve connected to a server in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, this could be the issue. Try connecting to an English server instead to see if this fixes the problem.

Despite its attempts to block VPN users, BBC iPlayer actually makes it fairly easy to watch content from other regions of the UK. You can simply open the Change location menu (in the bottom-left of the website, and in the Settings menu of the app), and select a different region.

UK VPNs for British Expats FAQ

Can I use split tunneling for BBC iPlayer traffic through my VPN?

Absolutely, split tunneling is a great idea for this purpose. By allowing the BBC iPlayer app or website through your VPN, you ensure that traffic to and from this service will not be encrypted or routed via foreign servers. This allows you to get the highest possible speeds while making sure that important traffic (such as that from messaging apps) remains hidden from snoopers. 

How can I watch Eastenders from outside the UK?

If you live in North America, you can stream Eastenders on Britbox. This costs $6.99 USD per month in the US or $8.99 CAD in Canada. Users can take advantage of a seven-day free trial in both countries. Unfortunately, there are no other international broadcasters, although you can always connect to a VPN to watch from elsewhere in the world.

Can I stream F1 from Sky UK?

Existing Sky TV customers can download and log in to the Sky Go app to watch online at no added cost. It’s also possible to live stream F1 without Sky Sports; you just have to pay for a Now TV Sky Sports pass. Prices start at £9.99 per day but discounts are available for longer subscriptions. 

Is UK Netflix different to the U.S.?

Yes, Netflix UK has different shows and movies to Netflix US. In fact, most countries have their own regional library: Japan offers a wider selection of anime, for instance, while Spain has more Spanish-language content. If you’re in the UK, you’ll be able to stream (perhaps predictably) more British TV than American subscribers.

Can the BBC track your IP address?

As a result of how data is sent across the internet, any website you visit can see your IP address. Hypothetically, if the BBC suspected you of breaking its copyright, it could contact your Internet Service Provider and ask them to warn you against doing this again. However, this kind of technique is primarily used against pirates and is extremely unlikely to happen just because you’ve decided to try accessing BBC iPlayer with a VPN.

More importantly, when you connect to a VPN, your real IP address is hidden. Instead, the BBC would only have the IP address of the server you used. Even if they did get in touch with your VPN provider, most won’t respond to anything other than a legal demand and in any case, most major services refuse to log any data that personally identifies you. In other words, if you’re using a VPN, neither the BBC or anyone else can track your real IP address.

Is it more secure to use a proxy server for UK expats?

Proxy servers can seem like a strong alternative to VPNs since they don’t have to be installed and often don’t cost anything to use. However, they come with their own problems. First and foremost, there’s no guarantee they actually encrypt your traffic. Even if they do, they’ll only secure data from your internet browser and won’t let you torrent or use other apps safely. 

It’s also important to remember that all of your data is traveling through this server. This may include sensitive data like passwords, usernames, and possibly even credit card information. Since there’s no easy way to tell who owns a specific proxy server, you’re essentially gambling with your personal data. In contrast, VPN companies are bound by strict data protection law and they live or die by their reputations. As such, we strongly advise against using a proxy server in any circumstance.

Is using a VPN as a UK expat legal?

It might surprise you to learn that, in most of the world, there aren’t any laws against using a VPN. Obviously, we encourage you to research your country’s local laws if there’s any doubt, but unless you’re in China, Russia, Iraq, Iran, North Korea, or the UAE, you should be fine.

Notably, using a VPN to access geo-restricted content almost always goes against a platform’s terms of service. Still, it’s extremely unlikely that anything will happen if your VPN is detected; most services just ask you to turn it off.

Does a UK VPN affect my internet speed?

Unfortunately, no matter where you are in the world, or where your chosen server is, a VPN will always reduce your internet speeds. This is because they tell your traffic to take a detour (routing all data through an encrypted server) instead of going directly to and from your computer.

On the plus side, VPN providers have made huge strides in this area lately. Many now offer their own protocols that are faster than OpenVPN, which was the industry standard for a long time. Additionally, given that streaming live TV only requires download speeds of about 5 Mb/s, your VPN shouldn’t cause any problems unless your base internet connection is extremely slow.

Will UK streaming services ban me for using a VPN?

We have never heard of a streaming service (whether in the UK or anywhere else) that bans people simply for using a VPN. These are legitimate privacy tools, used daily by millions all over the world, after all.

Instead, you’ll usually just be stopped from watching anything until you disconnect. Of course, this assumes the service you’re trying to access even realizes you’re using a VPN, which is far from guaranteed.

Can I watch in HD using one of these VPNs?

The good news is that all of the best UK VPNs for expats allow you to stream in HD with ease. Their speeds are more than fast enough for high definition streaming without having to worry about performance problems such as buffering or lag. What’s more, the fastest VPNs even let you stream in 4K. Remember that the closer a server to your physical location, the faster your connection is likely to be.

Can I watch Britbox and with these VPNs?

Yes, you can watch Britbox with these VPNs. The VPNs in this post allow you to change your IP address and access content from another region. This way, you can bypass geo-restrictions and stream Britbox from anywhere in the world! To get started, choose a reliable VPN provider and connect to a server located in regions where Britbox is available. Once connected, you must launch the streaming service and enjoy UK drama, comedy shows, and much more!

However, remember that some providers might block VPN connections for copyright reasons. If this happens when trying to stream with a different IP address, contact your provider directly for further instructions on how to watch around these restrictions.

What internet speeds do I need to stream British television?

To stream British television, you’ll need an internet connection with a minimum download speed of 2 Mbps. Higher speeds are recommended for HD and UHD (Ultra HD) content. The BBC recommends at least 5 Mbps for UHD streaming. If your internet speeds are lower than the minimum recommendations, you may still be able to watch content but it won’t look as good or might even buffer in some cases. If possible, upgrade your broadband connection to ensure smooth streaming of British TV.

Can I also use these VPNs for non-UK streaming services?

Absolutely! With a VPN, you can access streaming services from all over the world, even if they’re not available in your region. For example, if you’re in the UK and dying to watch US Netflix, just fire up your VPN and connect to a US server.

Keep in mind, though, that some streaming services actively block VPN traffic, so you may need to choose a VPN provider that’s optimized for streaming or that has a proven track record of getting past those pesky restrictions. And remember, using a VPN to access content that’s not available in your region may be against the streaming service’s terms of service, so proceed with caution!

Do these VPNs work with ITVx?

Yes, the VPNs above should have no trouble accessing ITVx, enabling you to access and stream its content outside the UK. These VPN providers have a proven track record of bypassing geo-restrictions and maintaining reliable access to popular streaming services like BBC iPlayer, 4oD, and more.

To watch ITVx using a VPN, follow these steps:

  1. Choose a reputable VPN provider known for unblocking streaming services like NordVPN, Surfshark, or ExpressVPN.
  2. Download and install the VPN software on your device.
  3. Connect to a VPN server located in the UK.
  4. Visit the ITVx website or launch the ITVx app on your device.
  5. Sign in or create an ITVx account if required.
  6. Start streaming your favorite ITV shows.

Remember that not all VPNs can successfully access ITVx, as the platform may use VPN detection techniques to enforce geo-restrictions. Therefore, always choose a VPN with a strong reputation for bypassing geo-blocks and offering fast, reliable connections to ensure a smooth streaming experience.