How to get American Netflix in Canada in 2024 – Full guide

Have you ever been nestled on a cozy Canadian couch, craving that specific American Netflix binge, only to face the cold reality that it’s out of reach? As someone who’s been in the thick of internet dynamics and digital boundaries for years, I feel your frustration. Many Americans journeying to our northern neighbor are blindsided by this geo-content surprise.

Our team has dived deep, weaving through the intricate web of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), to unearth the solution for you. While it’s true that not all VPNs can grant you this cinematic access, our rigorous and innovative testing methods have sifted the grain from the chaff. We’ve unlocked the keys to that treasure trove of American Netflix, even while you’re soaking in the Canadian vibes.

In the digital age, where seamless streaming feels like a fundamental right, being denied your favorite shows can be agonizing. We get it. And that’s why we’ve spared no effort in ensuring our recommendations are reliable, up-to-date, and tailored for this exact need.

By the end of this guide, you will not only be versed in the art of choosing the perfect VPN but also armed with a curated list of the best VPNs for bringing American Netflix to your Canadian doorstep.

Short of time? Below is our list of the best VPNs for securely accessing American Netflix in Canada:

Best VPNs to securely access American Netflix in Canada:

1. NordVPN Our #1 choice for Netflix! Stands high above the rest of the pack in terms of security. Works with various Netflix catalogs. Servers are fast and reliable. Includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
   TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for US Netflix.
2. Surfshark Is a reliable streaming VPN that respects user privacy and doesn’t break the bank. It allows unlimited connections and works great with Netflix.
3. ExpressVPN This speedy VPN can help you securely access plenty of Netflix libraries and comes packed with strong security tools.
4. CyberGhost Apps are easy to install and get started with. We were impressed with its streaming speeds.
5. IPVanish Allows any number of devices to be connected simultaneously, which is great for families. Fast servers are good for streaming video.
6. PrivateVPN Is a strong contender with an exceptional security toolkit. Works well with Netflix and similar services.
7. PureVPN A quick, reliable service that works with Netflix and similar platforms. Offers a good set of security features, easy-to-use apps, and a high connection limit.
8. ProtonVPN Highly-customizable VPN with exceptional streaming ability. Fast enough for any task, very privacy-conscious, and ideal for streaming Netflix US abroad.

Only a few VPN providers work reliably with Netflix. We’ve selected our favorites based on the following criteria, which we have fully tested (more on these later):

• Lets you securely access content on American Netflix from abroad
• Pegs fast speeds for high-quality, uninterrupted video
• Uses strong security and keeps no logs
• Provides quick, competent customer support
• Offers a money-back guarantee

Based on these criteria, below are the best VPNs to get American Netflix in Canada.

How to get American Netflix in Canada

The process is quite simple; here is how to get American Netflix in Canada:

1. First, you’ll need a VPN that US Netflix doesn’t block. We found NordVPN is the most reliable option but Surfshark and ExpressVPN are two alternatives.
2. Install the VPN software on the devices you want to watch Netflix on. All of the VPNs in this article are compatible with popular devices and operating systems.
3. Connect to one of your VPN’s US servers. Not all servers will work with Netflix so you may need to try a few or ask customer support.
4. Connect to Netflix USA and enjoy a broader content library of movies and shows only available on American Netflix.

Best VPNs for watching US Netflix in Canada – Our hands-on review

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 Canada.

Best VPNs to watch US Netflix in Canada

From our experience, here’s our list of the best VPNs for American Netflix in Canada:

1. NordVPN

Apr 2024 works with US NetflixTested Apr 2024

NordVPN is a veteran provider that makes it easy to watch US Netflix while traveling in Canada. With a global network of over 5,000 servers, your best bet for finding a server that works with US Netflix is to go to the NordVPN knowledge base. There you can search for Netflix (or several other streaming services) to find a support page that lists Netflix-compatible servers. NordVPN also works with Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, among others. Thanks to its exceptional VPN speeds, you should be able to stream free from any noticeable lag or buffering.

NordVPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy and uses strong encryption, so your privacy is all but guaranteed. The apps include leak protection and a kill switch.

Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. You may connect up to six devices at one time on a normal plan.

NordVPN speed test data

The Best VPN FOR US NETFLIX:NordVPN is our first choice for US Netflix. It’s exceptionally fast, prioritizes your security, and even offers a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.

Read our full NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark

works with US NetflixTested Apr 2024

Surfshark is a low-cost, fast, versatile VPN that makes watching Netflix USA as you travel. You can use any of the 3,200+ available servers that are closest to your location, too, since they all work with Netflix. Surfshark has high enough speeds for HD streaming, and perhaps even for 4K if your internet connection is fast enough.

This VPN doesn’t log any information that could see you personally identified. IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leak protection are included, as is 256-bit encryption, and a kill switch (in every version of the app). Users can connect any number of devices at once.

Surfshark has apps for Android, iOS, MacOS, Windows, and Linux.

Surfshark speed test data

BEST BUDGET OPTION:Surfshark is a low-cost VPN that makes it simple to use Netflix as any server works with the service. Plus there’s no limit to the number of devices you can connect. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review.

3. ExpressVPN

works with US NetflixTested Apr 2024

ExpressVPN reliably works with Netflix both on desktop browsers and the Netflix mobile apps for iOS and Android. Not all servers will work, though, so shoot a quick message to ExpressVPN’s live customer support on the website to ask which servers to use.

This service ranks very highly on speed, so you should be able to stream Netflix at high resolutions without any noticeable buffering. This provider boasts top-of-the-line encryption, a no-logs policy, robust data leak prevention, and a kill switch. On a single plan, you may connect up to five devices at the same time.

Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, and certain wifi routers.

ExpressVPN speed test data

SPEEDY AND VERSATILE:ExpressVPN holds its own. A fast and reliable choice that works with major streaming services including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. Great privacy features and a strict no-logging policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

4. CyberGhost

works with US NetflixTested Apr 2024

CyberGhost makes it very easy to access US Netflix on both mobile devices and desktop. Instead of looking up which servers work on a website or asking customer service, you just select the appropriate option from the VPN’s list of streaming servers.

CyberGhost is one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested, so you should be able to stream Netflix in high quality without too much trouble. CyberGhost recently earned the top score in our security and privacy assessment. Best of all, its security tools all come enabled by default. You can connect up to seven devices at a time.

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

CyberGhost speed test data

Easy-to-use apps:CyberGhost has a simple set up. Another affordable choice. Good on privacy. Streams HD video reliably. Good for Netflix. 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

5. IPVanish

works with US NetflixTested Apr 2024

IPVanish is a speedy VPN with more than 1,900 servers worldwide. It’s able to securely access Netflix US both via the mobile app and desktop browser. Not all servers work with this service but the 24/7 live chat support makes it quick and painless to find out which to use. Subscribers should be able to stream in HD without buffering, and maybe even Ultra HD.

You can connect any number of devices on a single account, making it one of just two VPNs in this list that can say this. You’ll also get top-notch encryption, a no-logs policy, leak protection, and a kill switch to keep your connection secure.

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

IPVanish speed test data

UNLIMITED DEVICES:IPVanish has a large network of servers. Generally solid for torrenters, P2P & Kodi users. Adhere to the highest standard of privacy, may need to try server switching to securely access Netflix. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

6. PrivateVPN

works with US NetflixTested Apr 2024

PrivateVPN is a well-established presence in the VPN industry, and a top choice for cord-cutters. Despite its relatively small server network, PrivateVPN works with just about everything we’ve tested it against. Plus it’s fast, so you can stream in HD without buffering.

This provider boasts a no-logs policy and strong encryption. Connections are leak-proof and can optionally be protected with a kill switch that cuts off all internet access should the VPN connection drop. Not only that, but this service is its own ISP, preventing any other organization from accessing your data.

The basic plan allows you to connect up to six devices at a time. Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android.

PrivateVPN speed test data

GREAT SPEED:PrivateVPN is a good family choice. Works with US Netflix and allows up to 6 devices on the same account. A small network of servers but fast connections. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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7. PureVPN

works with US NetflixTested Apr 2024

PureVPN has roughly 6,000 servers throughout 65 countries including the US and Canada. These not only allow you to access the American version of Netflix while traveling but also work with platforms like Max and Peacock. Better still, you’ll be able to watch in the highest possible quality since PureVPN delivers average speeds of over 390 Mbps. The service permits up to 10 simultaneous connections and offers 24/7 support via live chat. Response times could be improved but in our experience staff have always been able to resolve our problems quickly.

This VPN protects your privacy with DNS and IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch that ensures you never browse unprotected, and encryption that is industry-approved and uncrackable. If you choose the Plus or Max plans, you’ll also get a built in tracker-blocker. Crucially, PureVPN doesn’t keep tabs on your browsing activities. We know this for sure because it’s had multiple third-party audits, meaning you don’t have to take the company’s word when it claims to value anonymity. There is a reason, after all, it’s one of the only providers that still works in China.

PureVPN apps are available for MacOS, iOS, Windows, Linux, and Android. Alternatively, it can be manually configured to work with most routers – check the help section of the website for instructions.

PureVPN speed test data

STREAM NETFLIX ANYWHERE:PureVPN has no issues accessing the American version of Netflix abroad. Transparency-focused provider with a proven no-logs policy. All plans include a 31-day money-back guarantee just in case you’re still not sure it’s right for you.

Read our full review of PureVPN to learn more.

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8. ProtonVPN

works with US NetflixTested Apr 2024

ProtonVPN can help you access the US Netflix library while on vacation, but it’s also a great choice for anyone looking to stream Hulu, Peacock, and more. With high-speed servers in 85+ countries, there really isn’t much you can’t do. A maximum of 10 devices can be connected simultaneously and there’s 24/7 customer support via live chat just in case anything goes wrong. However, you will need a paid subscription to benefit from these features.

This VPN excels at keeping you safe. It prevents DNS and IPv6 leaks and uses uncrackable encryption by default. There’s also a built-in ad and tracker blocker, plus Secure Core servers stored in high-security data centers for maximum privacy. Experienced users can set up port forwarding (on Windows) or allow certain apps to pass through the VPN unencrypted, too. Most importantly, ProtonVPN refuses to log any data that could identify you. On that note, it has been independently audited and accepts multiple anonymous payment methods.

ProtonVPN has its own iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, and MacOS apps. If you’d like to install it on a router, you’ll have to follow manual setup instructions.

ProtonVPN speed test data

SOLID EVERYDAY CHOICE:ProtonVPN works great with Netflix and just about any other service you’d care to use. It’s also a strong choice for torrenting or gaming securely, thanks to its ultra-high speeds. Best of all, every plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Check out our complete ProtonVPN review.

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Our Methodology: Finding the best VPNs for Netflix US

Netflix has devoted incredible amounts of time and energy to preventing VPN users from accessing its service. As such, not just any VPN will work. We carefully considered the aspects of a VPN most important for streaming Netflix abroad, and recommended only those that excelled in every area. These include:

• Unblocking ability: If you’re in Canada, you will be restricted to Netflix Canada. To access Netflix US, you will need a VPN that’s capable of unblocking geo-blocked content on streaming sites. We also look at the ability to unblock other services, such as YouTube TV, Hulu, and Disney Plus.
• Server choice: The larger the network, the easier it should be to find a low-load server. Additionally, some providers in our list allow you to access Netflix US, even when using a non-US server.
• Speed: 4K streaming is pretty data-intensive, so high speeds are vital. As a result, we only recommend VPNs that perform well in our periodic speed tests. This way we can guarantee the highest streaming quality and consistent speeds.
• Streaming potential: We prioritize providers that work with multiple Netflix libraries, not just the US one. Bonus points if they work with other popular streaming services like Hulu or Amazon Prime Video as well.
• Security/privacy: VPNs are designed to keep you safe online. That’s why we look for features like uncrackable encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a no-logs policy at an absolute minimum.
• Value for money: We’ll never recommend a VPN that charges more than it’s worth. We’re also partial to services that offer a money-back guarantee and allow for many device connections.
• User-friendliness: You shouldn’t have to be an expert to protect yourself when streaming. The services above can all be set up in under five minutes, and offer live chat-based support.

Would you like to find out more? We explain our complete VPN testing methodology to give you a better understanding of exactly how we put each service through its paces.

Can I use a free VPN to access American Netflix in Canada securely?

Probably not. We know of no free VPN that can reliably access Netflix without triggering the proxy error. Even if you found one that works, chances are it will be blocked soon.

In any case, free VPNs tend to be congested with too many users, resulting in slow speeds. That means low-quality video streaming and a lot of buffering. Many free VPNs implement data caps and bandwidth limits, further inhibiting your ability to stream video.

Finally, many free VPNs don’t offer the same privacy and security as their paid counterparts. To make money, free VPN providers frequently collect and sell data about your usage history and what you do while connected to their service. They may even hijack your web browser or install malware on your device.

In short, avoid free VPNs.

Netflix Canada vs Netflix US

Netflix Canada’s catalog has made significant headway in catching up to its American counterpart in recent years, but some movies and TV series haven’t made their way up north quite yet. By some counts, US Netflix has about 200 more titles in total. They include:

• American Horror Story
• Sons of Anarchy
• Parenthood
• Parks and Recreation
• Frasier
• Dexter
• It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia
• … and many more.

Generally speaking, Netflix US seems to have more Hollywood content, while the Canadian version has more international stuff.

How to watch American Netflix in Canada FAQ