If you’re traveling outside the Netherlands, you’ll find that most Dutch streaming platforms are inaccessible. This is because they’re geo-blocked for copyright and licensing reasons. In this guide, we’ll show you a simple trick to bypass those restrictions and watch Dutch TV abroad with the help of a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

A VPN is an online service designed to give you privacy by concealing your IP address from the websites you visit. This privacy feature also allows you to pretend to be in a different country. When you connect to a VPN server in Holland, you get a Dutch IP address, which lets you stream Dutch TV from anywhere in the world.

That said, there is one caveat. Not all VPNs can unblock popular Dutch TV and streaming platforms like NPO, RTL, Ketnet, Canvas, Eén, Nos, NLZiet, AT5, Videoland, and Ziggo GO. This means you must pick a VPN carefully to avoid wasting your money.

In this guide, we explain how to use a VPN to unblock Dutch internet services and TV streams. We also recommend the best VPNs for Dutch TV. Later, we’ll provide detailed mini-reviews to help you pick between each service. For anybody short on time, we have included a quick list below.

Best VPNs for Dutch TV:

  • NordVPN: The best VPN for Dutch TV. 200+ servers in the Netherlands. Unblocks Dutch services such as Eén. No-logs provider with 24/7 support a risk-free 30-day  money-back guarantee.
  • Surfshark: The best budget VPN.Unlimited simultaneous connections. Watch Dutch TV such as NPO and RTL abroad. Very strong security with a strict no-logs policy. 24/7 live chat support.
  • ExpressVPN: Unblocks NPO and RTL channels. Very fast and reliable. Highly secure with encryption. 24/7 support and user-friendly apps.
  • CyberGhost: Over 9,000 servers worldwide and 300 in Amsterdam. Unlimited bandwidth for watching NPO1. Strong security with a no-logs policy and encryption.
  • IPVanish: Use on all of your devices at once. Works with Canvas and Ketnet. Consistent speeds for lag-free streaming. Uses encryption to keep your data secure.
  • PrivateVPN: Very fast speeds for watching RTL 4 outside the Netherlands. Easy-to-use apps for desktop and mobile. A no-logs policy protects your privacy.
  • AtlasVPN: Servers in 40+ countries, including Holland. Allows unlimited connections. Has 24/7 customer support.
  • Private Internet Access: Strong encryption, network kill switch, 10,000 servers, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

How to watch Dutch TV abroad with a VPN

Not sure how to go about using a VPN to watch Dutch TV overseas? Don’t worry! We’ll take you through the quick and easy process step-by-step.

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

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

  • Start by signing up with a reputable VPN service that offers servers in the Netherlands. We particularly recommend NordVPN.
  • Download the appropriate VPN app and complete the installation process.
  • Open the VPN app and connect to a server in the Netherlands. This is how you will obtain a Dutch IP address for unblocking Dutch TV abroad.
  • Go to a Dutch TV platform or streaming service and select your preferred content. You should now be able to watch without any problems.
  • If you still can’t watch Dutch TV outside the Netherlands, clear your browser’s cache and cookies before refreshing the page.

Choosing the best VPNs for watching Dutch TV abroad

There are many VPNs with servers in the Netherlands. This can make picking tricky because not all VPNs work to access popular Dutch streaming services.

To help you out, we have devised a scientific VPN testing methodology. We test VPNs for DNS, IP and WebRTC leaks to ensure the apps are reliable. We also look under the hood to see that the encryption is implemented securely, and check the privacy policy to ascertain that the provider is dedicated to online privacy.

Next, we test VPN speeds to ensure the VPN can handle gaming, torrenting, HD TV streaming, and other data-intensive tasks. And, we try to stream Netflix, Hulu, RTL, NPO – and other platforms – to ensure the VPN is suitable for Dutch citizens on vacation.

We narrowed down the options by looking for VPNs that offer the following features:

  • High-speed servers in the Netherlands
  • Strong unblocking ability for watching Dutch TV abroad
  • Protects your privacy with a no-logs policy
  • Secures your data with high-end encryption
  • Easy-to-use apps for desktop and mobile platforms
  • Support via live chat and email (preferably 24/7)

The best VPNs for Dutch TV – 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 Dutch TV.

Best VPNs for Dutch TV

Here’s our list of the best VPNs for watching Dutch TV online from abroad:

1. NordVPN

                    Jan 2023

Apps Available:

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

Website: www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is extremely fast and has over 200 servers in the Netherlands, making it a brilliant choice if you want to watch Dutch TV in the US or anywhere else abroad. In fact, with over 5,400 servers worldwide, you can use this VPN to watch the likes of NPO2, Eén, and Netflix. If you’d like to secure multiple devices, it’s worth knowing that NordVPN allows up to six simultaneous connections.

Another advantage of NordVPN is its comprehensive security. It follows a strict no-logs policy and offers 256-bit AES encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch. You can also connect to different types of servers for extra security. Double VPN servers encrypt your internet traffic twice while Tor over VPN servers route you through the Onion network and the VPN. If you have any questions, NordVPN offers 24/7 live chat support.

Connect to a NordVPN server in the Netherlands via its apps for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and Android TV. Browser extensions are offered for Chrome and Firefox. This VPN can also be used with select routers but this requires manual configuration.

BEST VPN FOR DUTCH TV:NordVPN has over 200 servers in the Netherlands. Unlimited bandwidth for streaming. Fast servers. Works with Canvas, Ketnet, RTL 4, and Netflix. No-logs service with Double VPN and obfuscation. Also offers 24/7 support. A 30-day money-back guarantee means you can try it risk-free.

Pros:

  • Very high speeds
  • Works with the likes of NPO1, RTL4, and Eén
  • Operates a strict no-logs policy that protects your privacy
  • Lots of security features including encryption and Double VPN
  • Knowledgeable customer support is available 24/7 via live chat

Cons:

  • Takes two clicks to disconnect

Our score:

Read our full NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website: www.Surfshark.com

Surfshark has recently expanded its network of servers, taking the total to approximately 3,200 across 100 countries. This includes servers in the Netherlands for unblocking and watching Dutch TV abroad. Further, this VPN is one of the fastest we’ve tested thanks to its WireGuard implementation.

All servers are P2P-friendly, but you can connect to a MultiHop (Double VPN) server should you want an extra layer of encryption. Plus, Surfshark is ideal for families as it lets you connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously.

This VPN is beginner-friendly with easy-to-use apps and 24/7 live chat and email support. Additionally, it comes with a wealth of security features including 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection from DNS leaks. Surfshark is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands where it isn’t subject to mandatory data retention laws. It operates a strict no-logs policy and even blocks ads, trackers, and malware with its CleanWeb feature.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark has a very attractive price point and unblocks NPO1 and NPO2 with ease. Reliable connections for lag-free streaming. Excellent, user-friendly apps and 24/7 live chat support. No-logs service with Double VPN servers and an ad blocker. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Lets you stream Dutch TV including NPO and RTL channels

  • Fast enough for HD live streaming

  • Unlimited simultaneous connections per account

  • 24/7 live chat support available

  • Packed with security features including Double VPN servers

  • Customer support could be improved

Read our full Surfshark review.

3. ExpressVPN

Website: www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN has a network of over 3,000 servers which are located across 94 countries – far more than most VPNs. This includes the Netherlands, where you’ll find servers in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth make for stress-free streaming of Dutch TV. Indeed, ExpressVPN works with Dutch channels including NPO1 and RTL 4 as well as international streaming services such as Netflix.

When you use ExpressVPN, you can secure up to five devices at once. You’ll also have access to user-friendly apps and browser extensions as well as 24/7 support over live chat and email. ExpressVPN takes your security seriously and doesn’t keep any logs by which you can be identified or tracked. There’s 256-bit AES encryption to keep your data secure plus a kill switch and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks.

Watch Dutch TV abroad by connecting to ExpressVPN’s apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. You can also download custom firmware for routers and browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.

STEADY SPEEDS:ExpressVPN is fast and reliable, plus it unblocks the likes of NPO1 and RTL 4. Use it on up to five devices at once. Includes 24/7 live chat support. Secure with high-end encryption and kill switch. Has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Lots of fast servers in the Netherlands for watching Dutch TV

  • Unblocks NPO and RTL channels, among others

  • Excellent, user-friendly apps and browser extensions

  • Very strong security with encryption and kill switch

  • Quite expensive compared to most VPNs

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

4. CyberGhost

Website: www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost is constantly adding new servers, making it one of the fastest-growing VPNs on the market. It has approximately 9,000 servers in 91 countries, some 300+ of which are in Amsterdam. High-speed servers and unlimited bandwidth allow you to stream Dutch TV such as Canvas and RTL 5 lag-free from anywhere. What’s more, this VPN lets you secure up to seven devices simultaneously.

With the CyberGhost apps, you can connect to a server with just one click. There’s also live chat and email support which is available 24/7. One of the main reasons to choose CyberGhost is for the excellent privacy protection it provides. You will get 256-bit AES encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and an automatic kill switch. Furthermore, CyberGhost has a strict no-logs policy which means it never knows what you’re doing online.

SPEED AND SECURITY:CyberGhost offers high-speed servers and unlimited bandwidth for watching Dutch TV such as NPO1 abroad. Highly secure thanks to high-end encryption and strict no-logs policy. Use on up to seven devices. 45-day money-back guarantee.

  • Over 9,000 servers worldwide including 300 in the Netherlands

  • Unlimited bandwidth means lag-free streaming of Dutch TV

  • Highly secure with strict no-logs policy and encryption

  • Live chat support is available 24/7

  • Doesn’t work reliably in China

Read our full CyberGhost review.

5. IPVanish

Website: www.IPVanish.com

IPVanish lets you connect as many devices as you like via a single account. This makes it a good choice for sharing with family. It has around 1,900 servers across dozens of countries and offers around 70 servers in Amsterdam. This VPN stands out for its exceptionally high speeds, which make it ideal for streaming Dutch TV abroad. In fact, you’ll be able to watch NPO3 and Ketnet live without having to worry about being interrupted by buffering or lag.

When you connect to an IPVanish server, your data is secured with 256-bit AES encryption. You’re also protected from DNS leaks while a kill switch ensures your internet traffic is cut should the VPN connection unexpectedly drop. As such, you’re protected from hackers and snoopers and can even use public Wi-Fi hotspots without concern. Last but not least, the IPVanish zero-logs policy allows you to stay anonymous while browsing the web.

CONSISTENT STREAMING:IPVanish is fast and has unlimited bandwidth for consistent, lag-free streaming of Dutch TV. Unblocks Canvas and Ketnet. No connection limits. Includes 24/7 support and a no-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Unlimited bandwidth for streaming Canvas and Ketnet

  • Lets you secure any number of devices at once

  • Keeps your data secure with high-end encryption

  • Zero-logs policy means your personal information stays private

  • No option to pay in cryptocurrency

  • Doesn’t offer an app for Linux

Read our full IPVanish review.

6. PrivateVPN

Website: www.PrivateVPN.com

PrivateVPN stands out for its fast connections which are perfect for streaming Dutch TV. Although this VPN service has a smaller network of servers than some of its rivals, these are located in 63 countries, including the Netherlands. Further, it boasts excellent unblocking abilities, meaning you can watch all NPO and RTL channels abroad as well as international streaming services such as Disney+. This VPN has also recently increased its connection limit from six devices to 10.

Aside from offering fast speed, PrivateVPN has strong security in the form of 256-bit AES encryption which protects your data from hackers and snoopers. Further security features include DNS leak protection and a kill switch feature. With a no-logs policy, PrivateVPN can’t share any of your personal details with anyone because it simply doesn’t know what you’re doing online. Live chat support is available, as is remote help and installation.

User-friendly PrivateVPN apps are available for the following operating systems: Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. You can also use this VPN with Linux and select routers by following manual setup instructions.

BEGINNER-FRIENDLY:PrivateVPN is fast and unblocks many popular Dutch TV channels including Eén and RTL 5. User-friendly apps and live chat support. Secure up to 10 devices at once. Security includes a no-logs policy and encryption. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Fast servers for streaming without lag and buffering

  • Works well with lots of Dutch TV channels such as NPO1

  • Secure with encryption and a no-logs policy

  • Can be used on as many as 10 devices at once

  • Fewer servers in each location than some competitors

  • Doesn’t offer browser extensions

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

7. AtlasVPN

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

Website: www.atlasvpn.com

AtlasVPN is an excellent option for anybody wanting to watch Dutch TV abroad. It offers servers in the Netherlands that work to watch popular streaming platforms like NPO, RTL, Ketnet, Canvas, Eén, Videoland, Ziggo GO, and others. It also works with international services like Hulu, Netflix US, and BBC iPlayer.

The VPN is ideal for streaming because it comes with WireGuard by default; a protocol that is designed for fast speeds. It also has apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android – to let you watch Dutch TV on any device. Best of all, you can use it on an unlimited number of devices, which means you can share your account with friends and family as much as you like.

In terms of privacy, this VPN has a solid no-logs policy. It also comes with a nice choice of advanced features, including split tunneling, malware filtering, ad blocking, multi-hop connections, and solid AES encryption. You can try it out using its 30-day money-back guarantee. And, once you are a member, you get excellent 24/7 live chat support.

MALWARE AND AD-BLOCKING:AtlasVPN has servers in 40+ countries and comes with AES encryption, a no-logs policy, and completely unlimited device connections.

  • 256-bit AES encryption

  • Supports WireGuard

  • Unlimited connection limit

  • Small selection of servers versus other VPNs

  • Canceling is tricky

Read our full AtlasVPN review.

8. Private Internet Access

Website: www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

Private Internet Access includes servers in over 80 countries worldwide. That includes servers in the Netherlands, which are perfect for obtaining a Dutch IP address. PIA works with Netflix and Prime Video, though this can sometimes be inconsistent. HD and 4K streaming is made possible thanks to its use of Wireguard, which gives a speed boost to gaming and streaming activities. PIA doesn’t collect logs and is based in the United States. No logs mean your activities are kept out of sight of ISPs and internet hackers.

PIA lets you tailor your encryption settings, increasing or decreasing security as needed. It offers AES encryption, the military’s standard to protect connections. It has a built-in network kill switch, ad blocking, malware blocking, plus split tunneling.

All plans include a 10-device connection limit, desktop, and mobile apps, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

10 DEVICE CONNECTIONS:Private Internet Access has customizable encryption, 10,000+ servers, and 24/7 live chat support. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Apps available for both Android and iOS devices

  • Operates over 10,000 servers in 80+ countries

  • Can connect up to 10 devices at the same time

  • Unblocking can be inconsistent

  • No Smart DNS support

Read our full Private Internet Access review.

Can I watch Dutch TV abroad with a free VPN?

The online platforms of free Dutch TV channels aren’t particularly difficult to unblock outside the Netherlands. However, you will find that free VPNs struggle to securely access streaming services with strict anti-VPN measures such as Netflix and DAZN. Furthermore, free VPNs typically have only a small network of servers, making it a challenge to stream geo-restricted content in many countries.

Aside from issues of unblocking content, free VPNs also have performance problems. This is particularly noticeable when streaming. Slow speeds and limited bandwidth means you’ll encounter a lot of lag and buffering. Security may also be problematic, particularly if the free VPN you use doesn’t secure your data with encryption. Indeed, you may even find that it logs your data (such as your browsing history) and sells it to third parties.

Methodology: Finding the best VPNs for the Netherlands

There are lots of important things to consider when shopping for a streaming VPN. You have to know that it’s fast enough for live TV, for instance, and that it’ll be able to evade detection by increasingly-advanced VPN-detection systems. We ensured that only the best services made the cut by filtering out candidates using the criteria below:

This is just the beginning of our larger testing process. If you’re interested, we have a whole post that explains exactly how we put VPNs through their paces.

Streaming Dutch TV online: Frequently Asked Questions

  • Het gouden uur
  • Wie es de Mol?
  • In de voetsporen van
  • De HuizenFixers
  • Tussen Kunst en Kitsch
  • Echte Gooische Moeders
  • Oorlog in de Kueken
  • Holland’s Got Talent
  • Race Om De Ringen
  • The Dutch Way

However, in most cases, your best bet is Netflix. Regardless of where you are in the world, all of this platform’s original content is available with Dutch subtitles. You can even turn on the Dutch audio, in case you just wanted to listen as you do other things.

  • NPO1
  • NPO2
  • NPO3
  • Eén
  • Canvas
  • Ketnet
  • RTL 4
  • RTL 5

There’s no need to worry, though. We’ve tested VPNs with dozens of streaming services over the years and have never once had an account banned (nor even heard of anyone who has). In most cases, your VPN will go completely undetected but even if it’s not, you’ll simply have to disconnect it before you’re able to watch anything.