With 5,873 and 4,043 titles, respectively, Netflix US and Netflix Canada boast the largest and second-largest Netflix library of any region globally. These titles are high quality and have consistently received a rating greater than 6.95 on the IMDb.
Netflix, however, places geo-restrictions on their shows, so you can only view content local to your current location. Traveling to a different country causes Netflix to update your location, and you’re served videos from the new place rather than the old.
If you have shows saved from the previous location that you lost access to, the good news is that you can still stream them using a VPN. These typically work by hiding your location and providing you with an IP address corresponding to the country of the show you wish to watch.
In this article, we curated a list of the best VPNs to stream Canadian Netflix from the US and answered common questions regarding this.
How to watch Canadian Netflix in the US – The quick guide
Short on time? Here is a quick guide for watching Netflix Canada in the US
- Sign up for a top-notch VPN (ExpressVPN is our top recommended VPN).
- Download VPN app and then install it on your preferred device.
- Log in and then connect to a server in Canada. This will give you a new IP address in Canada, and Netflix will update its library accordingly.
- Visit Netflix and enjoy streaming your desired content.
Best VPNs to watch Netflix Canada in the US – Quick list
Here’s a short list of the best VPNs to watch Canadian movies and TV shows from the US:
- ExpressVPN – A user-focused VPN with an intuitive and easy-to-understand interface. ExpressVPN has over 3,000 servers across 94 countries, including servers in four Canadian locations in Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, and Toronto
- Private Internet Access (PIA) – PIA’s core competitive advantages remain its affordability, numerous features, and excellent service. It uses a no-logs policy that ensures the safety and security of your internet activities and has servers in Toronto, Vancouver, Ontario, and Montreal.
- NordVPN – A superfast VPN with excellent privacy and security features and accessible customer service. Nord has over 5,500 ultrafast servers in more than 60 countries worldwide, including Canada, and is one of the biggest names in the VPN industry.
- Surfshark – Has more than 3200 ultrafast servers in over 100 countries to stream high-resolution content up to 4K display. You may choose from 100+ servers in three Canadian cities while being sure that the VPN protects your data and privacy at all times.
- CyberGhost – With over 9,000 servers in more than 91 countries, you can use CyberGhost for gaming, torrenting, and watching videos on multiple streaming platforms. It has over 484 servers in cities such as Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver and has excellent security and privacy features.
Why can’t you access Canadian Netflix in the US?
Subscribing to Netflix gives you access to various exciting shows and video content. Netflix is available in over 190 countries globally, each with a catalog of licensed original movies and TV series.
However, Netflix’s contents are geo-restricted and often differs between the 150+ countries where you can subscribe to and access the service. If you change your location, such as moving from Canada to the US, you may lose access to the Canadian videos you watch and instead start watching movies delivered in your new location, the United States.
Netflix is developed with advanced technologies that help it detect your location and serve you shows and movies from there. If you’re unsatisfied with the content offering in your location, traveled, and wish to continue a show from your initial location, or decided to expand your shows’ catalog, you may use a VPN.
A high-quality VPN, such as the ones in our list, helps you bypass Netflix’s geo-restrictions so you can watch all your desired shows and movies at high resolutions. Netflix knows about VPNs, and the platform is programmed to block them, so if you’re using a low-quality VPN, you may keep receiving an error message telling you that you’re using an unblocker or proxy and must first turn it off.
Why does Netflix have geo-restrictions?
There are various reasons why Netflix developers place geographical restrictions on their platforms and make them serve localized content. Most importantly, the shows you view on the platform are licensed and original, so the company pays substantial money to acquire or produce them.
As each country has different laws and regulations around intellectual property and media content distribution, placing geographical restrictions on videos enables the company to enforce copyrights and royalties. This allows Netflix to respect the licensing agreements with copyright holders.
Netflix also frequently runs live events, such as comedy specials and reunions, that stream live on the platform. Because these shows are often delivered or intended for local audiences, geo-restrictions enable Netflix to streamline its content and deliver only relevant ones to its subscribers.
Maturity ratings and classifications often also differ in each country. If you move to a country that uses a different rating system, titles may become available or unavailable due to the difference in maturity ratings.
Luckily, Netflix has a list of movies and TV shows called Netflix originals that the company produces itself using its in-house production crews. Because the company owns all the rights to these videos, it typically makes them available globally, and you may watch them without connecting to any VPN.
Bets VPNs to watch Netflix Canada in the US – The comprehensive list
Brief overview
| VPN | ExpressVPN | PIA | NordVPN | Surfshark | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total number of servers | 3,000+ | 35,000+ | 6,300 | 3,200+ | 7,000+ |
| Best monthly deal | $8.32 (get 3 months free and save 35% on the annual plan) | $2.03 (get three months free with a three-year plan and save 83%) | $3.49 (save 57% on a two-year plan) | $2.39 (get one month free with a two-year plan) | $2.11 (get 3 months free with a two-year plan) |
| Average speed | 300+ Mbps | 300+ Mbps | 300+ Mbps | 300+ Mbps | 300+ Mbps |
| Supported devices | Windows, iOS, macOS, Android, Linux, Router | Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Consoles, Smart TVs | Windows, iOS, macOS, Android, Linux | Windows, iOS, macOS, Android, Linux | Windows, iOS, macOS, Android, Linux (command line) |
| Maximum connection | 8 | Unlimited | 10 | Unlimited | 7 |
1. ExpressVPN
One of the most trusted VPN networks offering high-speed servers and top-notch unblocking capabilities. It has special servers that make streaming Netflix hassle-free.
Pros
- Boasts high-speed streaming servers in Canada
- Has user-optimized and intuitive interface
- One of the largest supplier even in China
- Does not contain users’ data
Cons
- Does not have RAM-based servers
ExpressVPN is a trusted network for Netflix with high-speed servers in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. Its servers can reach download speeds of about 475Mbps, enabling you to stream high-quality videos up to 4K resolution without any buffering.
It also uses 256-bit AES encryption and protection, which is military-grade and the security standard used by government organizations and agencies. With ExpressVPN’s no logs policy, all records of your online and internet activities are cleared, making it impossible for the VPN or other third parties to track and use your information for malicious purposes.
You can use ExpressVPN on major operating systems, such as Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Roku, and Linux, which means you can stream videos on any device. While all of the servers are fast, different locations have varying download speeds, so you may test all to find the fastest and connect to it.
2. Private Internet Access (PIA)
A complete VPN that has been designed specifically to make your online activities private. It has a large number of servers scattered all around the world.
Pros
- Supports all major devices
- Allows users to connect up to ten devices at one subscription
- Adheres on a strict policy for no-logging
- Boasts double VPN mode for better security
Cons
- Distant sercvers may have slow latency and speed
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a well-known VPN in the industry and has been around for a decade since 2010. With over 28,000 servers in 60 countries, PIA is one of the largest VPNs in the market by the number of available servers, although more than half of its servers are in the United States.
This VPN also strongly emphasizes encryption and privacy, featuring DNS leak protection, malware ad blocker, 256-bit encryption, and a customizable kill switch. This means you can safely watch Canadian Netflix without worrying about your safety being compromised, despite Canada’s membership in the Five Eyes Alliance.
3. NordVPN
An old player in the VPN market that has everything you need for safe streaming on Netflix.
Pros
- Has multiple in the United States
- Owns a quick-connect feature
- Boasts a kill switch feature that works as good as it claims
- A customer support available in multiple languages
Cons
- The desktop app may have speed issue
Many review websites consider Nord to be the best VPN for bypassing geo-restrictions and streaming various contents. It has over 6,300 servers globally, and more than 480 of these are based in Canada in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.
This VPN understands the importance of user security, so it uses 256-bit protection, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, Double VPN, and CyberSec. It also provides a dedicated IP for better online security and fewer interruptions.
Its customer support and website are also available in multiple languages, so you can quickly resolve issues and fix bugs and errors.
4. Surfshark
Best budget-friendly service that works as well as other top giants in the VPN market.
Pros
- Does not users data as it has RAM-based servers
- Affordable even for students
- Comes with a 7-day free trial on mobile devices
- Allows unlimited number of device connections at once
Cons
- Working on its services to make it better competitor
Surfshark is very affordable and is one of the recommended low-cost VPN options for streaming Netflix Canada from anywhere in the world. You can connect unlimited devices and stream Netflix from your home, at a restaurant, or any other place you find convenient.
It uses the no-logs policy to prevent hackers and other third parties from accessing your internet activities. Like other high-quality servers, Surfshark also uses 256-bit encryption to secure your information and data and protect your traffic from snoopers.
It’s also quite easy to use Surfshark as you can sign up on their website, download the app from the App Store or Play Store and connect to one of its 100+ servers in Canada. If you encounter any challenges while using the app, you may contact customer care, make complaints quickly, and resolve issues.
5. CyberGhost
Another cheap VPN service that is the best choice for beginners. It does not compromise on users’ privacy.
Pros
- Has lightening-fast servers all across locations
- Assist users with around the clock customer support
- Owns inituituve users-interface
- Comes with a generous money-back guarantee of 45 days
Cons
- Doesn’t accept anonymous payments
CyberGhost is the second most affordable VPN on our list. With 484 servers based in Canada out of 9,074+, you can watch the entire Netflix Canadian catalog without experiencing any lag or buffering.
This VPN also has world-class privacy and security features that strengthen your defenses by blocking your IP address and hiding your location. Its digital security features include ad and malware blocking, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and an active kill switch for extra protection.
It works on all major devices and operating systems, including Mac, Chromecast, Windows, iOS, and Android. If you encounter any challenges while using the app and want to complain, it also has a live chat and 24/7 customer support.
How to choose the best VPNs for watching Canadian Netflix in the US
Choosing the best VPN to stream Canadian Netflix from the US often takes considerable time and serious deliberation. Typing “Which VPN is best for watching Canadian Netflix in the US?” shows you numerous VPNs, and it may be difficult to determine how they compare or which contains your desired features.
To save you time conducting trials and errors, we researched and gathered the five best VPNs to unblock Canadian Netflix in America. We based our research on the following criteria:
Multiple servers
We determined the number of servers the VPN has worldwide and how many of these are in Canada. A VPN needs servers in a specific location to grant you access to Netflix content in that location.
Each of the VPNs above has servers in major locations within Canada, including Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.
Bypass geo-restrictions
Having servers in a region is only the first step toward accessing Netflix content in that region. As Netflix develops its app and delivers its content with anti-VPN measures, a quality VPN should be able to bypass these restrictions and let you safely access your desired content.
Our top VPNs can securely bypass geo-restrictions and let you access Netflix Canada in the US.
High-speed internet
We also checked the download speed of these VPNs, as this is necessary for an enjoyable streaming experience. These VPNs all have average download speeds greater than 300Mbps and support high-definition on-demand video streams up to 4K resolution.
ExpressVPN has an average downloading speed of at least 475Mbps, while Nord can reach 460Mbps. Surfshark averaged 324Mbps, Private Internet Access recorded 301Mbps and CyberGhost could reach a speed of 548Mbps.
Server Security
When creating this list, we set our minimum security standard to 256-bit encryption, DNS and IPV6 leak protection, and a kill switch and only included VPNs that meet these criteria. As you watch Canadian shows on Netflix and browse the internet, you can be certain that your online activities and personal information are safe and secure.
These VPNs also apply a no-log policy, meaning they don’t collect, store, or keep your personal information and online activities.
Affordability
Due to the vast number of VPNs available, most are vying for your patronage, and you can often find some good offers. Each frequently offers promo codes and discounts, whether on their anniversaries or through their brand ambassadors. Most VPNs also provide a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re unsatisfied with the service or features.
Competent customer support
The VPNs in our list also offer 24/7 live chat and e-mail assistance when you have issues or complaints.
Other streaming services
You may get tired of watching Netflix’s shows and movies and decide to stream content from other platforms. The VPNs on our list also help unblock other platforms including Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime.
Can I use a free VPN to watch Canadian Netflix in the US?
While this is possible, we emphatically advise you against streaming Netflix content with a free VPN for various reasons.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that Netflix is developed with anti-VPN measures to prevent you from accessing unauthorized content. Due to their cheap nature, the platform can easily detect these VPNs, and once that happens, you’ll continue to get a proxy error until you turn off the VPN.
Free VPNs also have fewer servers and more users than their paid counterparts, so servers generally have slow download and upload speeds. This is a catalyst for lagging and buffering videos and causes an unpleasant streaming experience.
You may also avoid free VPNs because of the numerous security concerns surrounding them. Hackers often disguise malware as free VPNs since they know there’s a huge demand for them.
These apps often contain viruses and are deployed to steal your data and other personal information.
Finally, it costs a lot to operate a VPN service, which is why server network providers like ExpressVPN and NordVPN have expensive activation and subscription fees. Free VPNs typically make up for the lack of subscription revenue by selling your personal information and user data.
Can Netflix detect and ban a VPN?
Netflix’s anti-VPN measures are regularly updated to prevent access to unauthorized content.
Currently, no information on their website, app, or other platforms states that VPN users’ accounts will be banned or suspended. However, Netflix blocks VPNs and proxy services. If your VPN provider doesn’t regularly update their features, you may soon lose access to the platform.
How does Netflix know that I am using a VPN?
Netflix checks your IP address to determine your device’s location and uses that to serve you local content.
A VPN operates by providing you with an IP address that matches the location of your desired shows or movies so you can safely access the Netflix of that region. For example, to watch Canadian Netflix in the US, your VPN provides you with a Canadian IP address, which tricks Netflix into believing you’re in Canada, enabling you to access the Canadian Netflix Catalog.
In rare cases, such as when you’re using low-quality VPNs, Netflix may detect that your IP address doesn’t match one of the approved locations and deny you access.
The platform also considers server load, as multiple connections from a single IP address can indicate that a user is using VPN. Sometimes, Netflix may block an entire IP address range when it detects suspicious activity.
Does Netflix offer a free trial in Canada?
Netflix’s free trial was a part of the company’s strategy to attract more users and get more people to subscribe to premium. This trial often lasted one month and allowed subscribers to access all of Netflix’s shows and movies.
The company started phasing out its free trial in major regions, such as the UK, US, and Canada, and by 2024, it no longer offers free trial anywhere. You can, however, change your plan or cancel online at any time without any cancellation fees, contracts, or commitments.
Netflix stopped offering free trials because the outcome didn’t follow the company’s expansion strategy. Users started abusing this opportunity by registering on different emails to access multiple free trials.
Conclusion
Unarguably, Canadian and American Netflix has some of the best libraries globally and provides various genres of quality content. You can access the movies and shows of both regions with a high-quality VPN, especially the ones provided in our list.
Numerous tests have been conducted on these VPNs and they have consistently shown the edge they have over other server networks in the VPN industry. They can safely bypass Netflix geo-restrictions and protect your personal information and data from snooping and hacking.
If you’re still unsure which to choose, we recommend beginning with ExpressVPN, which is the first on our list.
FAQs
Netflix costs less in Canada than in the US. You may get a basic plan without ads in Canada for $4.34, while the same plan costs $7 in the United States. We’ve provided a table above for proper comparisons of all the plans and their fees, so you may study it to determine which is best for you.
Netflix is widely popular in the media industry for its blend of entertaining videos and amazing video quality. Regardless of where you’re watching from, you’ll most likely find a show that appeals to you in its vast content library.
You may watch any movie or show once and be entertained for years because of the increasing content variety. Compared to US Netflix, Canadian Netflix has fewer titles, but it makes up for this in content variety.
Popular shows that are available on Canadian Netflix include Sex Education, 1994, The Pharmacist, and Dark. The Avengers, Inception, and La La Land are a few examples of classic movies that you may also watch.
Switching to Canadian Netflix with a VPN means you can watch more than 4,000 movies and 1,500 TV shows.
Canadian Netflix is different from US Netflix in its movies and shows library. The US library contains Netflix’s largest catalog of videos, with 5,879 titles.
Netflix also allowed password sharing between multiple devices enabling different individuals to connect to one account and stream different content. The streaming platform later announced that this would be refined from 2024, and only members from the same household could use a single account or profile.
If Netlfix discovers that a device that isn’t from that household is connected to the account or profile, it disconnects it.
