Can’t get access to Disney Plus while traveling abroad? Unfortunately Disney Plus is region-locked meaning you can only watch from certain countries. We reveal how a VPN allows you to watch Disney Plus from anywhere in the world as if you were back home.

Disney+ has proved to be an extremely popular standalone streaming service, earning more than 28 million subscribers in its first few months. With exclusive shows and movies including The Mandalorian and Frozen 2 available, families are signing up at an unprecedented rate. Unfortunately for some, Disney Plus is only available in certain countries. Even if you have an account, if you’re outside of those countries, Disney+ will deliver you a location error:

What’s more, Disney+ doesn’t show the same roster of content in all its locations, so someone in the US, for example, will see a different catalog to those in the Netherlands. Thankfully, a VPN can help you access the Disney+ library of your choice from anywhere in the world. Short for Virtual Private Network, a VPN encrypts internet traffic and sends it through an intermediary server in your choice of location. This switches your IP address with one from that location, tricking Disney Plus into thinking you’re located there.

In this post, we reveal exactly how to set up a VPN with Disney+ and the best VPNs for the job.

How to watch Disney+ online abroad with a VPN

Although a VPN sounds complex, most are straightforward to set up. Here are the steps:

How to watch Disney Plus with a VPN:

  • Decide on a suitable VPN provider, choose a subscription, and submit payment. We recommend NordVPN.
  • Download the relevant app for your device from the VPN provider’s website or the appropriate app store.
  • Install and run the app and enter your login credentials.
  • Select a server in the same region as the Disney+ catalog you want to unblock. For example, for the US library, choose an American VPN server.
  • Sign up for Disney+ if you haven’t already. Note that you will need a form of payment that matches your selected region (more details below).
  • Log in to Disney+ and you should be able to stream content as normal.

With some VPNs, any server in a given region will work.  For others, only select servers will unblock Disney+, so you may need to contact customer support to find out which one to use.

Best VPNs for changing Disney Plus regions – at a glance

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 Disney+.

There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn’t right for you and you’ll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.

Not all VPNs will work with Disney+, as the platform employs detection measures to block VPN traffic. That said, many top providers find ways to bypass these restrictions. We’ll explain more about these below, but these are our top picks.

Best VPNs for Disney Plus:

  • NordVPN: Our top recommendation for watching Disney+ abroad. Has a huge server network, great unblocking abilities, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  • Surfshark: Our low-cost pick. Boasts a ton of security features and decent speeds, and bypasses geo-restrictions with ease.
  • ExpressVPN: Extremely fast, with a large number of location choices. Strong on security and privacy.
  • CyberGhost: A secure, speedy service that will help you enjoy Disney+ from anywhere.
  • IPVanish: This provider is fast and reliable and unblocks several popular platforms.
  • PrivateVPN: Although it’s smaller than most of its rivals, PrivateVPN delivers on speed, security, and unblocking abilities.
  • Atlas VPN: High-speed VPN for streaming Disney+ and Netflix lag-free. Unlimited simultaneous connections. Secure with MultiHop servers.

As well as finding VPNs that work to unblock Disney+, we look at a full range of criteria when recommending the best providers. Here are the main factors we consider:

  • Works reliably with Disney+
  • Has excellent speeds and reliable connections
  • Provides strong security
  • Doesn’t log personal information
  • Offers solid customer support
  • Provides value for money

Best VPNs for Disney Plus

Here is our list of the best VPNs for Disney+:

1. NordVPN

                    Jan 2023

Works with disney +Tested Jan 2023

Apps Available:

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

Website: www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

This provider ensures your data remains secure with a range of features, including military-grade encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch (in all apps except Android), and protection against leaks. Other non-standard features include automatic wifi protection and the option of double VPN. Obfuscated servers can help you use a VPN connection in regions where VPN traffic is blocked, including China.

BEST DISNEY+ VPN:NordVPN is the best choice for Disney+. It has an expansive network, excellent unlocking abilities, and lots of security features. This provider offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros:

  • Higher speeds than any other VPN we’ve tested
  • Renowned for bypassing geo-restrictions
  • Large network of servers
  • Doesn’t keep any logs
  • Suite of security features

Cons:

  • Connecting to a server can sometimes take a little longer than expected

Our score:

Check out our detailed review of NordVPN.

2. Surfshark

Works with disney +Tested Jan 2023

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website: www.Surfshark.com

This provider ranks well on the security front too. It uses military-grade encryption in conjunction with perfect forward secrecy. There’s a kill switch in all apps and protection against leaks. Additional features include automatic wifi protection and split tunneling. Surfshark doesn’t keep any logs.

BEST BUDGET OPTION:Surfshark is inexpensive, has a ton of security features, and doesn’t impose a connection limit. It includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Generally very high speeds

  • Works with Disney+, Netflix, and more

  • Connect any number of devices

  • Lots of security features

  • Strict no-logs policy

  • Some servers are slower than others

Read our full review of Surfshark.

3. ExpressVPN

Website: www.ExpressVPN.com

This VPN provider values your privacy and won’t log any identifying data. Security features include 256-bit encryption (which is considered uncrackable) with perfect forward secrecy, protection against leaks, and split tunneling. There’s also a network lock built into the desktop apps. This is ExpressVPN’s version of a kill switch, a feature that disconnects you from the internet in case your VPN connection drops to prevent data leaks.

GREAT FOR STREAMING:ExpressVPN is fast and reliable, making it a strong choice for unblocking Disney+. It pegs amazing speeds and bypasses geo-restrictions with ease. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Blazing fast speeds

  • Unblocks a ton of streaming platforms

  • Strong security and privacy

  • Excellent support

  • On the pricier side

  • Could offer more control over advanced functionality

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

4. CyberGhost

Website: www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost is another solid choice for streaming Disney+. It has an intuitive interface with servers clearly labeled for the task they’re suited for, such as streaming Disney+, Netflix US, and other popular sites. CyberGhost has been quickly expanding its server network and now has one of the largest in the industry with around 6,000 servers in 89 countries.

This is another no-logs provider that has your back when it comes to security. All apps come with a built-in kill switch and leak protection. Encryption is 256-bit AES with perfect forward secrecy.

BEGINNER-FRIENDLY:CyberGhost has easy-to-use apps and will have you watching your favorite Disney movies in no time. A 45-day money-back guarantee is included.

  • Intuitive apps

  • Unblocks plenty of services

  • No-logs provider

  • 24/7 support

  • Doesn’t work in China

  • May be less suitable for advanced users

Learn more in our in-depth CyberGhost review.

5. IPVanish

Website: www.IPVanish.com

IPVanish has great speeds and reliable connections. It doesn’t work with as many sites as some of its rivals, but Disney+ works as does Netflix. IPVanish currently operates around 1,300 servers in over 60 countries.

Security and privacy are at the forefront for this provider. You get 256-bit encryption, leak protection, a kill switch in the desktop apps, and perfect forward secrecy. IPVanish never keeps any logs.

NO-LOGS PROVIDER:IPVanish is fast, secure, and private, making it suitable for streaming Disney+ and other platforms. A 30-day money-back guarantee is extended to subscribers.

  • Fast, reliable connections

  • Strong encryption

  • No logs whatsoever

  • No connection limit

  • Doesn’t unblock as many sites as some rivals

Read our full review of IPVanish.

6. PrivateVPN

Website: www.PrivateVPN.com

PrivateVPN has a small network compared to most of its competitors with just 150 servers in 60 countries. It doesn’t disappoint on service, with great speeds, strong security, and the ability to access multiple sites. You can watch Disney+ along with other favorites such as Netflix and Hulu. PrivateVPN works well in China.

This service won’t log your information and offers similar security features to its larger peers. You get 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, leak protection, and a kill switch in the Windows app.

PRIVATE AND SECURE:PrivateVPN is a solid performer with great speeds and unblocking abilities, and private, secure connections. Plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Privacy-focused

  • Unblocks all kinds of streaming services

  • Great speeds

  • Zero logs maintained

  • Low number of servers

  • Live-chat is unavailable at times

Find out more in our PrivateVPN review.

7. Atlas VPN

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

Website: www.atlasvpn.com

Atlas VPN is a newer VPN provider that launched in 2020. Since then, it has grown to offer over 700 servers across dozens of locations. However, the main selling points of Atlas VPN are its fast server speeds (stream without lag) and reliable unblocking of geo-restricted content. While streaming services such as Disney+ and Netflix can be difficult to access, Atlas VPN rarely has issues with them.

This is a VPN that makes it easy to connect to a server or adjust your preferences. Premium subscriptions come with access to live chat support. You don’t need to worry about online security either because there’s 256-bit AES encryption, protection from DNS leaks, and a kill switch feature. No identifying logs are kept of users while MultiHop servers route internet traffic through two locations for added security.

STREAM LAG-FREE:Atlas VPN is fast so you can stream Disney Plus in high definition without lag. Also works with Netflix. Connect all of your devices at the same time. Strong security includes MultiHop servers. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Good speeds means stress-free streaming of Disney+

  • Also works with the likes of Prime Video and Netflix

  • Connect as many devices as you like simultaneously

  • MultiHop servers provide two layers of encryption

  • Relatively small network of servers (approximately 700)

  • Privacy policy could be more transparent

Read our full Atlas VPN review.

Our methodology for finding Disney+ VPNs

With so many VPNs on the market, all promising different features and benefits, choosing the right fit for your requirements can be a headache. Fortunately, we run all the providers we recommend through a series of checks detailed below:

  • Unblocking ability: We search for VPNs that can access Disney Plus from all regions, no matter where you might be.​
  • Connection times: The most frustrating thing about streaming is that you often get buffering and laggy playback which ruins your viewing experience. We look for VPNs with fast connection speeds to ensure uninterrupted video streams free of slowdowns or interruptions.
  • Security: If you want to keep your viewing habits from the prying eyes of internet service providers or government agencies, you need a VPN with military-grade encryption and security features. We look for providers with AES 256-bit encryption and no traffic logs, so you can rest assured that your data is always protected.
  • Devices: Many of us like to use multiple devices and platforms, so we look for VPNs compatible with Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, and a range of other operating systems.
  • Support: We check the level of support offered by providers to ensure you can contact them if something goes wrong or if you have any questions about your subscription before making a purchase.
  • Price: Finally, we look for VPNs that offer the best value for money. Often this means comparing pricing plans and ensuring you can get the subscription that suits your budget and needs perfectly.​

Read our full-featured test guide for more details about our methodology.

Can I use a free VPN with Disney+?

While shopping around for a VPN, you’ll no doubt come across a vast number of free options. These can seem attractive, but there are several reasons you should avoid them. First, free VPNs probably won’t work to bypass Disney+’s geo-restriction measures. These providers simply don’t have the resources needed to tackle a giant like Disney, so you’ll likely still end up being faced with an error and unable to view the content you want.

Even if a free VPN can unblock Disney+, you’ll need to be prepared for a poor overall experience. The business models of free VPNs mean you’ll likely be bombarded with ads served by the VPN itself or third-party advertisers. Plus, these services typically have lots of users clamoring to use a small number of servers, leading to wait times to connect and low-quality, buffering video.

If you’re at all concerned about online privacy and security, free VPNs are a no-no. These providers often track user activity and sell profiles to third parties. While reputable paid providers secure your information with the toughest encryption protocols, free providers typically use weak encryption or none at all. Some VPN apps have even been found to carry malware, and one was involved in stealing users’ bandwidth to use in a botnet.

Where is Disney+ available?

Disney+ was initially released in six countries, but as of March 2020, is available in 13 regions:

  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Canada
  • Germany
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Puerto Rico
  • Spain
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom
  • United States

There are plans for Disney+ to be rolled out to other parts of the globe, though the timeline is lengthy and vague. For example, Eastern Europe, Latin America, and some parts of Asia Pacific likely won’t see the service until 2021.

How do the Disney+ geo-restrictions work?

Due to broadcasting restrictions, Disney+ is currently only available in the above regions. This means that even if you have an account, you won’t be able to access the service from everywhere. For example, say you usually live in the US and set up an account there, but you’re currently in India, you won’t be able to use your account. You either won’t be able to log in at all, or you’ll be greeted with a streaming error.

Thankfully, all you need to do in this case is to follow the steps above to use a VPN to unblock the service.

But what if you don’t have an account yet? If you try to sign up from outside a served region, you’ll see a Keep Me Updated button. Clicking that prompts you to enter your email address but does not enable you to sign up for the service.

To bypass this issue, you need to connect to a VPN. Simply connect to a server in a region where Disney+ is available and you’ll be able to sign up. Note, however, that you’ll need to have a payment method associated with that region, or be able to bypass this restriction (see the next section).

If you’re in a region that Disney+ serves, then you can sign up and view content with ease. The one problem you might run into is that not all content is available everywhere. Due to broadcasting laws and restrictions in various countries, the content libraries may be different depending on where you’re located.

Notably, the US version of Disney+ carries quite a few titles that others don’t. While there don’t appear to be any standout titles omitted from other libraries, there are some Mickey classics such as Hawaiian Holiday and Boat Builders that are only available in the US.

Thankfully, you can access your desired title using a VPN. For example, if you’re in Canada, you can access US-only titles by connecting to a US VPN server.

How can I sign up for Disney Plus from abroad?

Disney+ restricts who can sign up for the service by only accepting payment methods from the regions it’s available in. This means that even if you use a VPN to access the site and can initiate the signup process, Disney will block you from subscribing if you don’t have appropriate billing information.

That said, some users claim to have been successful with workarounds:

Set up a Disney+ account with an Apple ID

This works on iPad, iPhone, and Apple TV, but once you have an account, you should be able to access it on any compatible device using a VPN.

  • Sign out of your Apple account.
  • Go to the App Store and select Create New Apple ID.
  • Set the region to the United States and create an account. Don’t add a method of payment.
  • Buy an iTunes gift card loaded with enough US dollars to pay for your Disney+ subscription. The current price is $6.99 per month or $69.99 per year.
  • Redeem the gift card in the App Store.
  • Connect to a US VPN server.
  • Download and install the Disney+ app.
  • Start the Disney+ subscription process. When you get to the payment page, use your iTunes gift card to pay.

Sign up for Disney+ with a Google Play Store account

Using this method, you should be able to set up a Disney+ account on any Android account. Again, once you’ve set up an account, it should be accessible from any device.

  • Connect to a US VPN server.
  • Create a new Google Play Store account, but don’t log in.
  • Buy a Google Play gift card loaded with enough US dollars to pay for Disney+.
  • Redeem the code in the Google Play Store. You’ll be asked to enter a US ZIP code, but any one will do.
  • Go to Settings > Accounts > Add Account > Google, and add your new account.
  • Sign in to the Google Play Store with this account.
  • Download and install the Disney+ app and sign up, using your Google balance to pay.

Bear in mind that as more people use these methods, Disney+ may decide to impose tighter restrictions on how one can sign up for the service.

Here are some of the most popular titles you can expect to see:

  • Aladdin
  • Avengers: Endgame
  • Finding Dory
  • Frozen
  • Frozen 2
  • High School Musical: The Musical: The Series
  • Jessie
  • Mickey Mouse Clubhouse
  • Moana
  • Star Wars: The Clone Wars
  • Toy Story 3
  • The Simpsons
  • The Mandalorian

What the Subscriber Agreement does say, however, is that Disney may “use different technologies and methods to verify your geographic location”. This means that the platform’s enforcement of geographic restrictions on content may prevent you from watching particular TV shows and movies while traveling abroad.

‘We’re sorry, but we cannot play the video you requested. Please try again. If the problem persists, contact Disney+ Support (error code 39).’

This is typically a digital rights management issue.The good news is that it can be fixed by following these step-by-step instructions:

  • Make sure you’re connected to a VPN server in the appropriate country. For example, a server in the US if you’re trying to access the US version of Disney+.
  • Clear your browser’s cache and cookies to make sure Disney+ forgets your previous IP address and location and acknowledges the new IP address from your VPN.
  • Go to Disney+ and select your preferred content. You should be able to stream without seeing error code 39. You may need to try multiple servers to find one that works.
  • Still doesn’t work? The next thing you should do is restart the Disney+ app and then your device.
  • Failing this, the HDMI connection may be to blame. Try the cable in a different HDMI port and if it still doesn’t work, swap the cable to one that is HDMI 2.1 compliant.