Over the years, the Indian Netflix library has significantly expanded, and it’s now offering a sizeable range of content. That said, if you’re an American living in India or just a fan of the superior quality and variety available in the catalog, you’ll definitely be looking to watch Netflix US in India. Unfortunately, copyright licensing agreements stand in the way.
You see, Netflix’s extensive content library is subject to regional restrictions due to these licensing agreements. As a result, when you access the streaming service in India, you’re automatically directed to the Indian version. This offers a different selection of movies and TV shows compared to the American catalog — and it can be pretty frustrating.
Thankfully, there are a few solutions to this problem, and the most reliable of them involves using a VPN. This article explains how to access Netflix’s American catalog from India.
Why You Need a VPN to Watch Netflix US in India
It all boils down to regional restrictions and the complex world of content licensing agreements. Like other streaming platforms, Netflix operates under a system that divides its content library based on your geographical location.
So, the content available in India differs from that in the United States due to these licensing arrangements. They may share many titles, but you can only watch many others in either country.
Launching your Netflix app grants you access to all the exciting content you know and love when you’re in the United States. But here’s the issue: when you travel to India or anywhere else and try to watch Netflix there, the platform identifies your location using your IP address. It then directs you to the Indian version of Netflix, providing you with a specific set of movies and TV shows approved for streaming within the country.
While the Indian library had less than 20% of the US version years ago, it has since grown extensively over the years. Still, you won’t find titles like It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Schitt’s Creek, and many others. This can be frustrating if you’re an American living in India or simply prefer the variety the US library offers.
That’s where VPNs come in. A quality provider lets you virtually change your location by connecting to servers in different countries, including the United States. It essentially tricks Netflix into unlocking that library for you, regardless of your actual physical location.
When you connect to a US server through your VPN, your IP address is replaced with an American one, and Netflix thinks you’re there and opens access to its library in the country. This makes it possible to watch content from Netflix’s American catalog in India… or elsewhere.
How to Watch Netflix US in India: Full Tutorial
Unlocking access to American Netflix in India is easier than it sounds. In fact, it’s a simple, straightforward process that only requires that you use a quality Netflix VPN with servers in the United States. For that, we recommend ExpressVPN.
Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Choose a Reliable VPN
Pick a trustworthy VPN service with servers in the United States. Because you want seamless experiences, prioritize providers with high-speed infrastructure that can handle data-intensive tasks like streaming.
Also, consider essential factors like its ability to bypass geo-restrictions, commitment to privacy and security, and user-friendliness.
As mentioned above, our recommendation for enjoying Netflix’s US catalog from India is ExpressVPN.
Step 2: Download and Install the VPN
Head to the official website of your chosen VPN provider, sign up for an account and select a subscription plan that suits your needs. Make the payment using your preferred method.
Next, download and install the VPN app on the device you plan to stream with. Most top-rated VPNs offer apps for a wide array of platforms and devices. If you need help with installing, you can reference the provided guides or contact customer support.
Step 3: Connect to a US Server
Launch the VPN app and log in with your account details. In the server list, locate and choose a server located within the United States.
Initiate the connection by clicking the “Connect” button on the app’s main screen. This action assigns you a US IP address, indicating your new virtual location.
Step 4: Access Netflix US in India
With the VPN connection established, launch the Netflix app as usual or visit its website. You’ll now have full access to the extensive content library of Netflix US, including its exclusive shows, movies, and documentaries while in India. Enjoy your favorite titles as if you were physically in the United States.
Best VPNs to Use Netflix US in India — Our Top 3 Picks
The VPN industry is saturated with providers with servers in the United States; it’s the most popular VPN destination, after all. On top of that, many of these services claim they can unblock Netflix US for users in other countries. Unfortunately, reality paints a different story.
But don’t worry. We put in the effort to test dozens of them and streamlined your options to the best three.
1. ExpressVPN
If there’s one provider whose boasts you must take seriously, it’s ExpressVPN, considering it’s been atop the VPN leaderboard for some time now.
The best VPN to watch Netflix US in India boasts 3,000+ servers in 105 countries, with a healthy chunk of that network spread across 24 locations in the United States.
ExpressVPN consistently outsmarts geo-restrictions set by websites and online services. Netflix’s advanced VPN detection technology proves an effective stumbling block for most providers. However, the VPN’s sophisticated tech and regularly refreshed server IPs effectively evade these measures. Consequently, it provides reliable access to the complete American Netflix library from India, irrespective of how frequently Netflix updates its blocking methods.
This capability extends to other streaming platforms, like BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, and HBO Max.
What’s more, ExpressVPN ensures high-speed connections thanks to its 10 Gbps servers and its proprietary Lightway protocol. You can expect seamless, buffer-free streaming as long as you maintain a stable connection.
Crucially, ExpressVPN excels when it comes to data security and privacy. It incorporates military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection to keep hackers and other shady operators away. Furthermore, the provider’s privacy-friendly jurisdiction, RAM-only servers, and strict no-logs policy guarantee that you leave behind no compromising data.
ExpressVPN supports a wide variety of devices, from computers to smartphones, streaming boxes, and gaming consoles. A single subscription covers up to eight devices at the same time, making it ideal for larger households with frequent Netflix viewing.
In case of queries or assistance needs, the VPN offers 24/7 live chat and email customer support. For all the reasons mentioned above, this is, according to our experts, the best VPN for accessing Netflix US from India or any other country in the world.
2. NordVPN
Panama-based NordVPN doesn’t trail far behind ExpressVPN. It’s renowned for its exceptional performance and robust security features, but NordVPN covers all the bases.
For one, it has a massive network with over 5,800 servers spanning 60 countries. That includes the US, with around 2,000 VPN servers spread across 16 cities. Some are colocated servers, which means the provider fully owns and manages them in-house, a plus when it comes to security.
NordVPN is incredibly fast, even when connected to a server from distant locations like the United States. As a result, you’re effectively guaranteed uninterrupted streaming in high-quality resolutions, eliminating buffering issues and allowing you to enjoy your favorite movies, shows, and documentaries on Netflix US when you’re in India.
But NordVPN isn’t limited to Netflix — it effortlessly bypasses geo-restrictions on multiple popular streaming platforms, including Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and others.
Much of this VPN’s reputation comes from its handling of privacy and security. NordVPN employs military-grade AES 256-bit encryption to safeguard your data, ensuring your online activities remain confidential and protected from potential threats. What’s more, it’s packed with features that include system-wide and app-specific kill switches, RAM-based servers, IP/DNS leak protection, and a built-in ad blocker that also serves as malware protection.
NordVPN offers compatibility with a wide range of devices and allows you to secure up to six devices simultaneously with a single subscription.
Furthermore, the VPN provides round-the-clock customer support via live chat and email. That way, you have assistance and information readily available from its knowledgeable representatives whenever needed.
3. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is the budget VPN for accessing American Netflix in India, but this compelling option has more than affordability going for it.
There’s also its extensive collection of servers that blows rivals out of the water. You get to choose between 9,600+ servers in 100 countries. The United States boasts a significant presence, with over 1,200 servers distributed across 11 locations.
CyberGhost is easily one of the best VPNs for streaming, largely thanks to its dedicated streaming servers. Categorized under “For streaming,” they come optimized for various platforms, including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and Disney+.
Regular servers may vary in performance, but connecting to one of CyberGhost’s Netflix US servers is sure to unblock the service.
With high-bandwidth infrastructure and advanced protocols like WireGuard, CyberGhost keeps your original connection speed from taking a deep dive. So, you can expect buffer-less streaming, even when you’re watching All the Light We Cannot See in Full HD or higher resolutions.
When it comes to online security and privacy, CyberGhost has you covered. The provider sticks to a strict no-logs policy, which has undergone independent auditing to verify it. In addition, CyberGhost employs high-level encryption to protect your online traffic and includes essential features like a kill switch, leak protection, and automatic Wi-Fi protection.
CyberGhost supports the major platforms and devices, extending to game consoles, set-up boxes, and more. If you purchase a single account, you can use it on up to seven devices simultaneously.
To further enhance your experience, CyberGhost offers continuous customer support through live chat and email, so you can access expert assistance whenever you need it. If you’re having trouble accessing Netflix US from India, you’ll have no trouble getting quick help.
Can You Watch Netflix US in India With a Free VPN?
While free VPNs offer a tempting solution to access Netflix US content from India without spending money, there are several limitations and risks to consider.
To begin with, the elephant in the room: can they unblock Netflix US? Unfortunately, free VPNs for Netflix are a mirage, as the streaming platform’s restrictions and VPN-blocking technology are simply too powerful.
But even if they could get past that hurdle, several others exist. For instance, free VPNs invariably come with a limited number of servers, which can quickly become overcrowded with users. As a result, you should expect slow and unreliable connections that result in constant buffering and low-quality video streaming.
In addition, most free VPN services impose data caps, restricting how much data you can use each month. Streaming video content, especially in high quality, consumes significant data. So, Windscribe’s 10 GB/month limit, for instance, means you’ll definitely run out before you’re done watching your favorite shows or movies.
Furthermore, the privacy and security of your online activities may be at risk. Some of these services log your online sessions and sell that data to third parties for profit. Plus, they may not offer the same level of encryption and protection as premium VPNs, which leaves potential loopholes for malicious actors.
If pricing is a concern, consider instead the top affordable VPN services for unblocking Netflix’s American catalog in India.
Conclusion
The platform’s powerful blocks and geo-restrictions may be in the way, but a VPN service provides a reliable way to watch Netflix US in India anyway. You just need a quality provider with streaming and other essential capabilities, and you’re set to go.
Our top recommendation is ExpressVPN, as it offers the best blend of performance, reliability, and privacy. You can take advantage of a generous 49% discount to purchase its annual plan, and you’ll receive three extra months.
FAQs
Are VPNs legal in India?
Yes, using VPNs is legal in India. There are no specific laws prohibiting their use for personal purposes. However, engaging in illegal activities while using a VPN is still subject to legal consequences.
What if Netflix detects my VPN and blocks access to US content?
You could switch to a different VPN server in that case. Netflix continually updates its blocking measures, but the top providers work diligently to provide access to geo-restricted content. Contact your chosen VPN’s customer support if you continue to meet a roadblock.
Do all VPNs work with US Netflix from India?
No, not all VPN services let you watch US Netflix in India. The streamer’s advanced detection technology makes it challenging for most VPNs to consistently bypass geo-restrictions, which is why it’s so important that you choose a reliable option.
