How to Bypass WhatsApp Restrictions in 2025

WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that offers end-to-end encryption for messages, audio calls, video calls, and file exchanges. Moreover, it is totally free to use; you only need to have an internet connection and account.

According to a study by Statista, by 2024, WhatsApp had more than 2.78 billion monthly users, making it the most popular chat app in the world. The messaging application is also available in more than 180 countries worldwide.

Unfortunately, accessing WhatsApp in some countries like China, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates is difficult due to regional restrictions and censorship. Furthermore, some of its features are restricted to limited regions.

To bypass these restrictions, you need a handy tool like a VPN. A virtual private network (VPN) masks your actual IP address and gives you another, making you appear from a different region where WhatsApp is accessible. After testing multiple services, we compiled a list of the top VPNs to help you evade WhatsApp geo-restrictions. Let’s explore.

How to get around the WhatsApp restrictions – Quick guide

Best WhatsApp VPNs – Quick list

How to beat WhatsApp restrictions

First, it’s important to understand the government’s perspective and why these restrictions are imposed. When governments block WhatsApp, they notify all Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in their respective countries. As a result, the ISPs are then obliged to block the user’s connection to the app so that no one can access it.

Also, since all the ISPs must abide by the law of the land they operate, they must all comply. Just like that, WhatsApp is blocked for everyone using the local connection in the country.

Normally, ISPs use your personal information to block your connection to certain websites. Technically, this means exposing your personal information, especially your IP address, which works against you.

So, if you want to override these restrictions and use WhatsApp despite the bans and internet censorship, you must find a way to hide information that identifies you online. Your IP address is the main way ISPs and the government collude to curtail your internet freedom.

Fortunately, you can still access these banned websites and online services using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). The tool unblocks banned web content by hiding your actual IP address.

Best VPN options to unblock WhatsApp – Detailed list

After all the extensive and tiresome tests, we came up with a list of the best VPNs for accessing WhatsApp abroad:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is the most comprehensive high-end security package on our list. It comes with several premium security features, making it a complete package for browsing the internet safely and anonymously. It also has an adblocker, kill switch, IP protection, and CIA-grade data encryption protocols.

The VPN has one of the most extensive server networks, boasting over 5,500 servers in 60 countries worldwide. You can pick any of these server locations to unblock WhatsApp. NordVPN has earned its reputation as one of Qatar’s best tools for bypassing geo-restrictions.

Moreover, with this many unblocking capabilities, you can access several streaming services to watch movies and TV shows online from anywhere.

NordVPN’s headquarters are in Panama, which is a privacy-friendly jurisdiction. This means your data is safe with them, and it doesn’t monitor or store users’ sensitive data to comply with the 5, 9, or 14 intelligence alliance.

Furthermore, the P2P feature allows you to safely download files from torrent websites such as BitTorrent, allowing you to share files quickly and safely.

With CyberSec Technology, the VPN prevents malware attacks and helps you block dangerous ads

While the VPN is a premium tool, it makes up for the cost by doing its job satisfactorily. They have a 7-day free trial that lets you test the service and decide whether to continue with the premium version. If you don’t like the service, you can cancel it and get your money back in 30 days.

Additionally, you can connect up to 10 devices at a time. And it won’t matter which device you use- NordVPN is compatible with Roku, Linux, Kodi, Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and more.

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2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a top-tier VPN offering comprehensive security and privacy features. It helps you unblock WhatsApp with optimum security. You can access any blocked content with lightning speeds, clandestine-grade encryption protocols, large server networks, electric speeds, and ad blockers. The VPN keeps you safe and ensures that no one intercepts your browsing information or reads what you do online.

The VPN has more than 3,000 servers across 94 locations in different countries worldwide. This allows you to choose specific places and IP addresses where WhatsApp is legal and unblock restrictions. With the wide base of servers, you can even unblock all possible restrictions and internet censorship, including bypassing the Great Firewall of China.

Moreover, ExpressVPN unblocks famous streaming services like Hulu, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Crackle, BeIn Sports, Disney Plus, and more.

If you are in the Middle East or China, where most services (including Google, Facebook, and Bing) don’t work, you can use this VPN to access your favorite online service.

You will never worry about IP, DNS, or WbRTC leaks, as this VPN protects you from such losses with the split tunneling feature, network lock, and kill switch systems. Additionally, it protects you from any DNS or DDOS attacks.

ExpressVPN works well on all major browsers and operating systems, including Windows, iOS, Firestick, Roku, MacOS, Android, and Linux. You can get several bonuses and promotions if you sign up on ExpressVPN today. On top of that, the service will go for as low as $6.67 per month, and you can get your money back in 30 days if you are unhappy.

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3. ExtemeVPN

ExtremeVPN is the best VPN for beginners. It has an easy-to-use user interface and active customer support that guides you every step of the way. This relatively young rally driver starts late but still beats veterans to the title. ExtremeVPN has all the top-tier VPN features but is easier to use and sells at a lower price than everyone in its category!

One of its most amazing aspects is its blazing-fast connection speeds. As a tool with so many features, it’s likely to be mistaken for a slow VPN. But instead of slowing down the connection, this VPN reaches high speeds of over 329 Mbps uploads and 303 Mbps downloads. ExtremeVPN, therefore, ranks as one of the fastest VPNs in the market.

So, if you want a VPN that can help you enhance your gaming and streaming experience, ExtremeVPN has your back. It lets you make top-quality video calls on WhatsApp and stream 4K, HD, and Ultra HD resolutions on a big screen. And the speeds are even higher when you choose a closer server.

ExtremeVPN has more than 6,500 servers in more than 78+ countries worldwide, making it easy to unblock WhatsApp in any country. You can also access a large number of streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney Plus, HBO Max, or BBC iPlayer from any country.

ExtremeVPN’s subscriptions are affordable and among the cheapest top-tier VPNs. You can get all these good features of a top-quality premium VPN at a low price. They have a client for every operating system and a support team that’s knowledgeable and available 24/7.

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How to choose the best VPN to access WhatsApp

A VPN’s main purpose is to give you online freedom in a secure environment so that neither government, corporate agencies nor cybercriminals intercept you.

But which features should you look for in a VPN to access WhatsApp from anywhere worldwide? Here are some of them:

Large server network

If your WhatsApp does not work internationally, you must connect to the IP address of a VPN server from a country where the service is available. VPN servers help you browse the internet from a different location. So, the VPN you choose needs to have a large international server network, allowing you to bypass all geo-restricted services.

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Speed

A VPN with so many features will likely slow down your connection. However, the best premium VPNs will hit up to 80 Mbps upload and 70 Mbps download speeds on a standard connection of 100 Mbps. High speeds let you make direct video calls without issue.

You can also stream high-quality videos at this speed. And if your ISP tries to throttle your speeds, the VPN will assign you a new IP address, making it hard for your service provider to slow down your connection.

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Intuitive interface

You don’t want a VPN whose interface is so difficult that it requires you to study for a degree. Instead, you want a VPN with an easy-to-use user interface. We recommend good VPNs with interfaces that even a fifth grader can use easily.

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Money-back guarantee

It is okay to like or dislike a VPN service. No matter how good the VPN service is, you should have the right to cancel at any time. A good VPN service must offer a free trial refund if you feel dissatisfied. All the VPNs we recommend above have a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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Guaranteed security

While doing online activities, you must remember that spies, snoops, malicious hackers, corporate services, and even the government always try to intercept your connection. Therefore, the VPN service must guarantee your online confidentiality and security with its airtight features. These features include AES-256-bit and RAM-based servers with a no-log policy, kill switch, IP DNS, and WbRTC leak protection.

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Support VoIP and streaming services

The main reason you need a VPN is to access WhatsApp. However, the VPN should also help you unblock several other online services. So, besides enjoying WhatsApp internationally, you can also access streaming services and VoIP apps.

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Obfuscation

Some ISPs can easily detect and block VPNs. Moreover, several have banned the use of VPNs. Therefore, you need a VPN that obfuscates the VPN traffic.

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Active, knowledgeable support

If you ever have a problem using the VPN service, you can contact customer support, who will guide you. We’ve picked VPN services with active and knowledgeable customer support teams. The teams are available 24/7 to make your online safety a smooth journey.

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Is a free VPN good for accessing WhatsApp?

A free VPN can be a good option if you are out of budget and still want to unblock WhatsApp while traveling. However, if you privacy-oriented, it isn’t a wise choice.

Free VPN services lack advanced functionalities and can compromise your data. Moreover, free options often have slow speeds. Premium VPNs, on the other hand, respect and prioritize users’ online privacy.

Also, free VPN companies monitor your activities, store your data, and sell them to third parties. This is how they make money. Therefore, as your privacy guide, we don’t recommend using free VPN networks. Instead, opt for a service that respects your online security and privacy.

Moreover, premium VPNs offer a free trial and a money-back guarantee. So, instead of choosing a free VPN and compromising your security, get a VPN like NordVPN and ExpressVPN.

How to install and set up an eSIM for WhatsApp?

eSIM is a technology that allows you to use a phone provider’s services without needing a physical SIM card. Launched in 2016, embedded SIM (eSIM) technology is quite new to the phone industry, and few devices support it.

Instead of having the typical PVC-made integrated circuit mounted on a removable SIM card, the eSIM has software on an eUICC chip permanently built into the device. Your phone service provider only needs you to re-program the information on the chip so you can start making calls without the physical SIM card.

The configuration and installation steps of the WhatsApp eSIM may vary depending on your ISP or phone service provider. However, the standard procedure for setting up your WhatsApp’s eSIM is:

• Check your compatibility: Does your phone support eSIMs? Not all phones support eSIMs, so you must verify that yours does.
• Get the QR code: Contact your cellular or phone network operator for an eSIM QR code or activation code. Your operator will explain the details and provide the resources you need to use when getting the eSIM ready.
• Set up the eSIM: Then, you will open your eSIM settings menu on your device and configure it according to your cellular operator’s recommendations. The setup varies from one operator and device to another.
• Scan the QR code: Scan the QR code or enter the activation details. Check with your carrier or service provider for instructions on manually entering the code or following the process after scanning the QR code.
• Launch the eSIM: After you have activated the eSIM, finalize the procedure by managing the data, call, and message settings. Your carrier or service provider will provide instructions on getting the eSIM ready for calls, messages, and internet functionality.
• Now, Install WhatsApp: Now, you can install WhatsApp using the New Year SIM that you just connected to your device. Go to your Play Store or App Store to download the legit version of WhatsApp. Then, verify your phone number and set up your profile.
• Start using WhatsApp!: Now, you can use WhatsApp for encrypted messages, audio, and video calls.

Remember, the procedure of installing or configuring the eSIM can differ from one device to another. Also, carriers have their unique ways of getting the configuration ready. So, make sure to contact them for guidance through the process.

Which countries limit WhatsApp?

Countries ban WhatsApp for several reasons. Recently, some governments have blocked VoIP and social media apps to maintain public order. Others claim they do it to fight cybercrime. But a few don’t want their citizens to adopt “Western ideologies.”

China is one of the most vocal countries about the ban on WhatsApp. The country began by blocking several WhatsApp functions in July 2017, including video and voice chats and file sharing. But they lifted the weight just a few weeks later.

Then, in September of the same year, the communist government blocked the app and all its features. The Chinese ban on WhatsApp remains in place, even after uproars about the disruption it causes to Chinese businesses.

However, China is not the only country that restricts WhatsApp. Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia are among others that have banned the app or some of its features.

Moreover, Uganda, Brazil, Egypt, Morocco, and Turkey have a temporary ban on WhatsApp.

Why do they ban WhatsApp?

Several countries worldwide are working to regulate the internet in their own way. In most cases, governments control information among citizens to maintain their grip on power, raising issues with online freedom.

The WhatsApp bans are either permanent or temporary. But how and why exactly do they do it? Here are some of the countries with WhatsApp ban policies and why they do it:

1. Brazil

In the past, Brazilians enjoyed massive online freedom. The country made a great stride towards the rule of law and freedom for citizens when it adopted legislation that supported internet neutrality in 2014.

But, the freedom and neutrality were short-lived as the government would soon start poking holes in the constitution. In 2015 and 2016, the government banned WhatsApp twice.

The government claimed to have had serious disputes with Facebook, the owner of WhatsApp, over the company’s refusal to submit data to the authorities for scrutiny. The Brazilian government wanted Facebook and its affiliate products to submit enough data to help the fight against cybercrime. But, the owner said WhatsApp was end-to-end encrypted and could not be scrutinized.

Since then, the government has passed several strict legislations to combat cybercrime. However, the new laws only made it harder for Brazilian residents to enjoy the full range of internet freedom.

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2. Turkey

In 2016, the Turkish government arrested 11 members of the People’s Democracy Party (PDP), which has a large Kurdish membership. Later, the government blocked several social media platforms, including WhatsApp, to control public protests.

Since then, the Turkish government has continued to enforce strict internet censorship. The government views social media as a platform where the media could cover dissent and opposition-backed political events.

The officials also claim that such information could cause harm and unrest in the country. Unfortunately, the internet restrictions only restrict citizens’ freedom.

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3. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is one of the world’s most culturally and politically conservative countries. Islamic countries have strict rules and legislation on enjoying your time there. It’s no wonder that they make it to the list of the most restricted online users in the world.

The Saudi government banned all Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) apps such as WhatsApp, Skype, Viber, and Facebook Messenger long before 2016. But, it also made it difficult for people living in Saudi Arabia to communicate with the outside world. The government further claimed that the restriction would miantain the flow of harmful foreign ideologies that would hurt the country.

The Kingdom lifted the ban in 2017 to promote businesses and economic growth.

Censoring the internet and apps like WhatsApp is a protectionism principle shared by China and several other communist countries. While it has its fair share of positive and negative sides, it takes away the freedom of the people living in those countries.

Some governments obligate the ISPs in their countries to block VoIP services and restrict the internet. So, telecommunication companies implement the internet censorship and protectionism agenda by limiting the apps or websites a user can visit.

WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption is especially seen as an unbreakable channel that the government cannot control. Therefore, many governments decide to block it altogether.

Also, some telecommunication companies collude with governments to block WhatsApp for revenue. WhatsApp allows citizens to make free worldwide voice and video calls, meaning corporations and governments don’t generate revenues. So, they block such a platform in favor of those that rake in the millions by taxing and charging the citizens.

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WhatsApp restrictions and the Great Firewall of China

China’s ban on WhatsApp is an extension of the Communist Party’s attempt to censor free speech and open communication. China’s internet censorship is a wide-ranging ban on several foreign social media and online platforms that don’t align with their policies.

The censorship program is popularly known as the Great Firewall of China and forms one of the strictest censorship programs in the entire world.

The government designed the firewall to block any information that threatened communist principles. Mostly, the firewall limits any spread of foreign and Western ideologies that may tamper with the communist agenda in the country.

WhatsApp poses a huge concern to the Chinese government, especially because it has end-to-end chat encryption features; the encryption prevents any third parties, including the Chinese government, from seeing messages and conversations.

It makes the government paranoid that Chinese citizens might start exchanging anti-communist agenda and content over the social media platform. So, the government restricts WhatsApp and other similar platforms that try to offer private communication.

China allows several other messaging services, such as WeChat, that do not have encryption technology. These services are often the target of government monitoring. In addition, WeChat even provides information to the communist government upon request.

This explains how the Chinese government regulates free and private communication. The Chinese people are, therefore, some of the most censored in the entire world.

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