How to Watch Canal Plus Outside France – 2024 Guide

Abeerah Hashim  - Security Expert
Last updated: August 27, 2024
Read time: 16 minutes Disclosure
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Learn how you can watch Canal Plus outside France or anywhere around the globe. Read our guide and enjoy Canal Plus abroad in no time.

Canal Plus is a France-exclusive streaming service that serves local customers exciting content. The Verizon-owned platform is popular among users due to its diversified content sourced from other regions.

However, the platform is only accessible within French boundaries, barring users from accessing it abroad. However, one can always bypass this restriction and unblock Canal Plus anywhere outside France by changing the IP address to a French one. This guide explains how to do it in detail.

Watching Canal Plus abroad – Quick guide

Here is a quick guide you can use if you lack the patience or time to go through our thorough how-to guide to unblock Canal+ outside France.

This section demonstrates unblocking Canal Plus using our number one option for accessing geographically blocked content: VPN. So there you have it, in three easy steps:

  1. Select a VPN that covers your needs; our number one recommendation is NordVPN — it is super fast and takes security extremely seriously. The provider has a no-logs policy and works out of both with Netflix and other streaming platforms and not only Canal Plus.
  2. Install the VPN, set it up, and connect to a server from France.
  3. Visit the Canal Plus website and enjoy it.

Voilà! This is how you can achieve a smooth Canal Plus live stream wherever you are. But seriously, stick around to see why you should use a VPN, find out more about its alternatives, and make a well-rounded decision.

Top VPNs to watch Canal Plus in the USA, anywhere outside of France – Quick list

  1. NordVPN – A super-fast VPN known for its top-notch security features, including a kill switch, no logs policy, and AES 256-bit encryption.
  2. Private Internet Access (PIA) – It is a highly compatible VPN with servers spread across 63+ countries.
  3. ExpressVPN – A top-ranking VPN service for high-speed streaming and secure browsing across multiple platforms.
  4. Surfshark – Fast and reliable VPN service that offers access to over 3200+ servers in 65 countries.

Why is Canal Plus blocked outside France?

Verizon owns Canal+ Group, where you will find Canal Plus TV. This is a wonderful option for those searching for French and international TV series, blockbusters, documentaries, shows, and more sports.

It is true that Canal Plus has always enjoyed a great many subscribers because it offers amazing content.

However, a substantial percentage of this content is also available in other countries. This means that there are copyright infringements to deal with. As a result, Canal Plus livestream employs geo-blocking.

Many people in the industry frown when hearing about free content distribution. Online freedom does not pair well with monetizing intellectual properties, after all. Furthermore, Canal+ has only paid for the rights to stream the content in a specific location, France.

You don’t need a subscription to watch the content you like from the UK, Italy, Switzerland, or even the US. Nevertheless, this will only grant you access to some of the live streams.

A subscription is a must for those wanting to get the whole experience. Unless you have a subscription already, you must switch your IP and appear to be located in France. This brings us to our main course.

How to unblock Canal Plus outside France? Detailed guide

If you crave great content from Canal Plus TV, nothing should stop you from watching it. Not even your location. Luckily, there are several things that you can do to accomplish your end goal.

We have gathered the three safest options for you to enjoy Canal Plus International in the USA, the United Kingdom, and any part of the world. The only requirement is that you have decent Internet.

Let’s look closer at these three alternatives, explaining how you can use them to access the Canal+ Plus website and stream away!

Method #1. Unblocking Canal Plus abroad via VPN

Is your VPN safe

VPN is short for Virtual Private Network. It allows you to convert your IP address to a French IP address and bypass geo-locations instantly. A VPN does much more than that. It enables you to protect your personal information through sophisticated encryption.

Moreover, it helps you enhance your streaming speed by vanishing any restrictions set by your ISPs. Finally, a VPN is ideal for overcoming censorship or spying.

How does a VPN help you unblock Canal Plus TV and enjoy your desired content? Well, it is quite simple. First, you must sign up for a VPN service that features servers from France.

Consequently, you must connect to one of these servers. Once you are connected, you can access the website and experiment with Canal+ login. You will be streaming by now if you have done everything by the book.

Of course, the same process is valid when trying to access different websites. For example, you can turn to VPN if you wish to unblock Hulu outside the US or access BBC iPlayer outside the UK. The list goes on and on. The only variation will lie in selecting the VPN server you connect to.

In a nutshell, the steps to take with the VPN are the following:

  • Find a VPN with French servers
  • Subscribe to the VPN
  • Download its app
  • Connect to a French server
  • Access the website
  • Enjoy free Canal Plus live-streaming

Selecting the best VPN for Canal+

There are many VPN service providers out there. But, even if you choose this option, how would you know where to look? Well, the truth is that there are quite a few decent VPN services out there today. However, not all of them are equally great. To keep you on the right track, here are some of the things you need to pay attention to when selecting a VPN:

  • The number of VPN servers: When choosing a VPN, choose one with a wide variety of servers in different locations. This gives you greater flexibility when choosing a server that best serves you. Also, you’ll have a high chance of getting a nearby server for fast speed. 
  • Location of VPN servers: A VPN service that offers servers in various countries will directly impact your online experience. With more server locations, you can unlock geo-restrictions and access content that has been geo-blocked. 
  • Speed: How a VPN service performs affects your browsing and streaming experience. A poor VPN will disappoint you due to slow loading times and buffering. You must consider how fast a VPN service is before deciding which one to settle for. 
  • Reliability: When selecting a VPN, always determine its guarantee for uninterrupted service. An unreliable VPN service can be disastrous to your privacy and security. That’s why you need a service that always maintains a secure connection.
  • Encryption protocol: Highly-performing VPNs, such as OpenVPN, have robust encryption protocols that use AES 256-bit encryption. Ensure that your VPN service provides the latest and most secure protocols.
  • Ease of use: User experience narrows down to how users interact and use a VPN. A reliable VPN should be easy to set up and have a user-friendly interface. 
  • Compatibility with devices and OS: Always ensure you go for a VPN service that has high compatibility. If you plan to use different devices and operating systems, it is important to consider which platforms the VPN service supports. 
  • Affordability (value for money): Consider the subscription plans of the VPN service and whether it offers value for money. Always compare a VPN’s features against their charges to determine which gives the best value.

Having these in mind, we have narrowed down our list to the 3 best VPN service providers:

Best VPNs for watching CANAL Plus outside France – Detailed list

1. NordVPN
NordVPN for Streaming

With over 230 servers from 2 French locations and high-speed connectivity, NordVPN ranks first in our list of the best VPN to unblock Canal Plus TV outside France.

servers 6,000+ servers in 60 countries
P2P optimized servers Supports P2P sharing
encryption AES-256-bit encryption
Zero-logs policy No-logs policy
Kill switch Kill switch
MultiHop mode Double VPN
IP leak protection DNS/IPv6 leak protection
live chat 24/7 customer support
simultaneous connections Allows up to 10 simultaneous devices
money-back guarantee 30 days money-back guarantee
Pros
  • Great online presence
  • Incredible geo-blocking and censorship bypass
  • Sophisticated military-grade encryption
  • No data logging policy
  • Supports anonymous payments with cryptocurrency
Cons
  • Inconsistent server speed sometimes

In terms of numbers, we have 6,000 servers in 60+ countries. Of course, checking if these servers suit your needs is in your hands. In most cases, NordVPN features servers in places of increased demand.

There is also a no-logs policy here, meaning your privacy is a given. It offers decent value for money. Furthermore, NordVPN allows you to pay in Bitcoin if you wish to do so. You can’t get any more anonymous than that, can you?

Another good thing about NordVPN is that you can support up to ten connections with a single account. This means you can share your account and divide the cost, which is excellent. Plus, it is compatible with most OS and devices and has 24/7 customer care to help you when you need something.

For those of you who want to balance affordability and reliability, NordVPN is a top-notch solution. You can find great offers, as well as premium features.

If you want to find out more about NordVPN, our extensive review is available here for you to look through.


2. Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private internet access pros cons block logo

An extraordinary VPN provider that has a large server network and robust unblocking capabilities to unblock Canal Plus geo-restrictions from abroad.

servers A large network of over 35,000 VPN servers present in 82+ countries
P2P optimized servers Peer to Peer connection supportive servers
encryption Secure connection with reliable encryption; AES 128-bits and 256-bits
Ad Blocker feature Robust protection against malware and adware with in-built MACE
Zero-logs policy Enforces a policy of zero logs
Trusted servers nord Runs on RAM-only VPN servers (benefits privacy)
Split tunneling feature The split tunneling feature works as expected
Kill switch Boasts a feature-rich kill switch
simultaneous connections Each account allows connection to unlimited simultaneous devices
money-back guarantee 30 days no-questions-asked money-back guarantee
Pros
  • Exceptional value for money with multi-device protection
  • Boasts uncompromising privacy policy with no logs kept
  • Has built-in ad-blocking and malware protection
Cons
  • Distant servers have slow speed

Private Internet Access (PIA) is one of the market’s most affordable premium VPN services. This is quite a steal, considering the number of security features and functionalities the VPN service offers.

Besides the strict no-logs policy, PIA has a firewall-based kill switch that disconnects your network if the connection drops. This provides air-tight leak protection against data infringement.

Another top security feature is advanced split tunneling. This feature allows you to route your traffic through a safe tunnel or a local network. Further, the advanced encryption settings, WireGuard protocol, dedicated IP, and ad-blocking capabilities provide a secure yet smooth service experience.

The VPN service also supports various platforms and OS, including Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, MacOS, Chrome, and Smart TVs.

PIA could be a great VPN choice for balancing security features and affordability.


3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN new features block logo 120 by 120 now

This high-speed and stealth VPN offers French IPs from 4 different locations, thus becoming the best VPN to unblock Canal+ abroad.

servers 3,000+ servers in 94 countries
encryption AES-256-bit encryption
IP leak protection DNS/IPv6 leak protection
P2P optimized servers P2P support
network lock feature Network-lock feature
Trusted servers nord TrustedServer technology
Zero-logs policy Zero logging
simultaneous connections Allows up to 8 simultaneous devices
money-back guarantee 30-day money back guarantee
Pros
  • Huge online presence
  • Super fast speed
  • Prevents IP leak exposure with Kill Switch
  • Outstanding censorship bypass
Cons
  • Relatively expensive subscription plans

If you are keen on numbers, you will love this. Well, ExpressVPN features over 3,000 servers worldwide – 94 countries in total. More than that, some of these countries, such as Pakistan, are rare in other VPN services.

The provider takes data protection seriously and does not log any data. Their customer care is stellar, and they use advanced encryption alongside some impressive extra features (such as Kill Switch).

ExpressVPN has made a stupefying reputation all these years, which has happened for a reason. This might be your safest bet if you are looking for a 100% reliable, credible VPN service provider that will never disappoint you.

To learn more about this provider, read through our detailed ExpressVPN review and see why this is an excellent option.


4. Surfshark
SurfsharkVPN

Another great VPN to watch Canal Plus and other French geo-restricted streaming platforms as it offers multiple servers from 3 French cities.

servers 3,200+ servers in 65 countries
encryption AES-256-bit encryption
P2P optimized servers P2P servers
MultiHop mode MultiHop mode
IP leak protection DNS leak protection
Kill switch Automatic kill switch
Zero-logs policy Zero-logs policy
Camouflage mode Camouflage-mode
simultaneous connections Allows unlimited simultaneous devices
money-back guarantee 30-day money-back guarantee
Pros
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections on a single account
  • Fast performance
  • Anonymous payments with cryptocurrency
  • 24/7 customer support
Cons
  • Distant servers may not perform that great, speed-wise

This is the most affordable option to unblock Canal Plus TV and almost all media worldwide without glitches. Even if you have some VPN experience, you may have never heard of this service. It makes sense, as it is quite a new addition to the market.

Perhaps the first thing you will notice about Surfshank VPN is that they focus mainly on their pricing. Besides, their motto is “Eating other VPN deals alive.” And they seem to be right. You can get a VPN subscription at a fragment of the cost without missing out on any of its rivals’ features.

Just like we have mentioned about ExpressVPN and NordVPN, this option has impressive features for securing your privacy and anonymity. To name a few, you can benefit from app white listing, split tunneling, kill switch, IP address leak protection, and other features that will improve your online security.

To that end, Surfshark VPN provides sophisticated AES-256 encryption. Along with the strict “no logs” policy and the option to use unlimited connections simultaneously with a single account, this VPN certainly wants to rank high.

So, in a nutshell, Surfshark VPN is a new player in town but has already made quite an entrance. This could be your ideal solution if you want to make the most of your buck.

If you wish to learn more about Surfshark, you can read it in our in-depth review.


Best VPNs for Canal+ – At a glance

NordVPNPrivate Internet Access (PIA)ExpressVPNSurfshark
Ranking for Canal+ 1234
Streaming PlatformsDisney+, Amazon Prime, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, NetflixDisney+, Amazon Prime, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, NetflixDisney+, Amazon Prime, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, NetflixHBO Now, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime
Servers worldwide6,000+ in 60+ countries35000+ servers in 91+ countries3000+ servers in 105+ countries3200+ servers in 100+ countries
Device supportWindows, iOS, MacOS, Android, Amazon Firestick, RouterWindows, Mac, iOS, Fire TV, Android, routers, Android TV, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, routers, Android TV, Fire TVWindows, Android, Mac, iOS, routers, Android TV, Fire TV
Simultaneous connections10Unlimited8Unlimited
Starting price$3.99/month$1.89/month$8.32/month$2.49/month
Free trial and money-back guarantee7-day trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee30-day money-back guarantee30-day money-back guaranteeYes, 7-day and a 30-day money-back guarantee

How to watch Canal Plus with VPN (Easy steps)

To enjoy Canal Plus with a VPN, follow this guide:

  • Subscribe to a VPN service. We recommend NordVPN.
  • Download and log in using your credentials.
  • Select a server network (preferably a server in Paris, France).
  • Visit the Canal Plus website.
  • Create an account.
  • Enjoy streaming content in the USA.

Can I watch Canal+ with a free VPN?

Most people might think using a free VPN is a huge expenditure-saving. Unfortunately, that’s not the case, as free VPNs have various drawbacks. For example, a free VPN doesn’t have a reliable network infrastructure as a paid service. In addition, they attract more users than premium VPNs, making them annoyingly slow.

Nothing is free in the business world, and this includes free VPNs. These providers offer such services with strings attached. Since they don’t charge users a dime, free VPNs sell user data to make revenue.

In addition, free VPN providers sell ads on their apps and websites that track your online activity. These logs are used to profile users and for marketing purposes. Some ads also contain malware and viruses that could harm your device or expose your online privacy.

Free VPNs have more risks than benefits. That’s why you should use our recommended VPNs since they’re more secure and reliable.


Method #2. Unblocking Canal Plus with SmartDNS

SmartDNS is the second option to unblock Canal Plus from abroad. This service enables you to change your IP address to a French IP address. In other words, you will appear to reside in France at the time of your connection.

Although similar to the VPN, it is quite different at its core. Its use is limited to changing your location – and that is it. Unlike VPNs, SmartDNS provides no protection whatsoever. So you can be exposed to prying eyes and other online threats.

The process of using the SmartDNS is simple, too. You need to choose which SmartDNS service to use and then download it. Set it up as per your device’s requirements.

Then, you are good to go. Open the SmartDNS, see that you are on, and connect. However, remember that the Smart DNS replaces your real DNS with a fake one. This means that it does not change your IP address.

One of the advantages of SmartDNS over other solutions is that it is entirely software-free. In other words, you do not have to download any software before using the SmartDNS. On the other hand, if you are using a computer, you will have to go through the Control Panel and complete a one-time process.

If you are more of a visual guy, here are the quick steps for you:

  • Sign up for one and download the SmartDNS; we can suggest a few SmartDNS services: Unlocator, Smarty DNS, and Blockless.
  • Set up the SmartDNS.
  • Connect to a French IP.
  • Visit the Canal Plus website.
  • Enjoy fast live streaming.

More detailed information is below:

  • Click on the Start button.
  • Go to Control Panel.
  • Then, go to Network and Internet.
  • Head to Network and Sharing.
  • Change Adapter Settings.
  • Double-click on your connection.
  • Click on Properties.
  • Then, follow the specific guidelines for your own OS and device (they vary slightly).

Again, this is a one-time thing. You do it, and then you only connect and use the SmartDNS to bypass geographical restrictions effortlessly.


Method #3. Watch Canal Plus TV outside France using Kodi

We are now referring to Kodi, the famous open-source media player. It runs on almost all devices, including your laptop and mobile phone. Kodi is compatible with iOS, Android, Linux, and Windows.

There is no need for you to buy a special device. The only requirement is to download Kodi and then install several Kod add-ons.

Specifically, to access the Canal+ Plus website from everywhere on the planet, you will need to install the SuperRepo add-on.

This is how you can install your SuperRepo add-on from Kodi:

  • First of all, you open Kodi.
  • You go to Settings.
  • Then, you go to File Manager.
  • Go to Add Source and click on it to activate it.
  • Open the on-screen keyboard (a pop-up window will show you that option).
  • Type https://srp.nu.
  • Then, type SuperRepo.
  • Select to install from zip.
  • Click on your added source.
  • Watch as the add-on is installed (or go ahead with your life until it’s done!).
  • Go to Kodi.
  • Go to Add-ons.
  • See SuperRepo? Then you’ve nailed it!

How can I sign up for Canal+ in USA?

Follow these steps to set up a VPN and Sign up for Canal+ in America.

  1. Sign up for a reliable VPN with servers in France.
  2. Download and install the VPN client to your device.
  3. Login to the VPN client using your account credentials and connect to a French server.
  4. Open your browser, navigate to the official Canal+ website, and click register.
  5. Create an account by clicking the ‘Subscribe’ button.
  6. Click or tap on the ‘Discover the offer’ button.
  7. Select a subscription plan. You can choose a plan that requires a minimum of 24 months commitment or a plan without commitment, then click ‘Next.’
  8. Fill in your email address and password and click ‘Next.’
  9. Follow the on-screen directions and start streaming.

What devices are compatible with Canal Plus in the USA?

Streaming services seeking an edge over their rivals must invest in compatibility. Users prefer services that can be accessed across a wide range of devices. Several devices can stream content from Canal Plus:

  • Windows 
  • Android
  • Mac
  • Apple TV
  • Chromecast
  • iOS
  • Xbox 
  • Laptops 
  • Smart TVs

How to set up compatible devices with Canal Plus?

How to configure Canal Plus on Android in the USA?

Here’s how to set up Canal Plus on your Android device:

  • Subscribe to a paid VPN service like NordVPN.
  • Select a France (Paris) server.
  • Visit the ‘Google Play Store.’
  • Search the Canal+ app.
  • Click the ‘Get Button.’
  • Confirm installation.
  • After a successful download, open the app.
  • Enjoy the Canal+ in the US.

How to configure Canal Plus on iOS in the USA?

Here’s how to set up Canal Plus on your iOS device

  • Subscribe to a paid VPN service, preferably NordVPN.
  • Select a France-Paris server.
  • Visit the App Store on your device.
  • Search the Canal+ app and click Install.
  • After downloading, Open the app.
  • Enjoy your favorite TV shows and movies.

How much does Canal Plus cost?

Here are the plans and charges for Canal subscription:

Canal+ subscription planCanal plus priceIncluded channels and services
Canal+ basic US$22.15 (€20.99)/month for one year, then US$26.37 (€24.99)/month for following yearsCanal+, Canal Plus series, documentaries, kids’ programming, and Canal Sport 360.
Canal+ Cine series US$36.93 (€34.99)/mo for the first 12 months, followed by US$43.26 (€40.99)/mo for the next 2 yearsCine+, Disney+, Netflix, OCS, Cinema, and Starz Play.
Canal+ sportUS$36.93 (€34.99)/mo for 1 year and US$48.54 (€45.99)/mo for 24 monthsEnjoy exclusive sports content with a Canal+ Sports subscription. Access to Golf+, Eurosport, Rugby+, Bein Sport, Foot+, Sport+.

Is Canal+ free to air?

No, streaming Canal+ for free is not an option. If you want to access Canal+ content outside France, choose one of the premium plans highlighted above. The closest you can get to free content is trying out the 30-day free trial. However, if you’re in the US, remember to use a VPN to get access to Canal+ content.


What to watch on Canal Plus in the USA in 2023?

If you’re unsure of what to watch on Canal Plus in the USA, we have compiled a list of the best TV shows and popular movies for you:

Best TV shows on Canal Plus

  • Happy Valley
  • How I Met Your Father
  • Snowfall
  • Django
  • The Head
  • Rust Season 1
  • Bad Batch
  • Yellowjackets season 1
  • The Mandalorian
  • Dexter: New Blood Season 1

  • Top Gun: Maverick
  • Lamborghini
  • The Cursed
  • Bullet Train
  • Inside Ted
  • Becoming Father
  • Poupelle of Chimney Town
  • Gold
  • Paradise City
  • Other People
  • Eyes of Tammy Faye
  • The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent

New releases on Canal Plus

  • Thor Love and Thunder
  • Nope
  • The English
  • The Invitation
  • Maria Reve
  • Your Honor, Season 2
  • Rabbit Hole
  • Paris Police 1905
  • Marie Antoinette

FAQs

Vivendi owns Canal+ Group, and Canal Plus TV is a part of the latter. They offer their channels on a state-of-the-art set-top box, which enables an SES satellite. UHD channels are available via Astra 19.2 degrees East, while it is worth mentioning that Dolby Atmos is also featured.

It is relatively easy to create multilingual content. If you are watching that, you simply click on the “

” button and select English instead of French. You can look out for VOST (the original version with subtitles) for your convenience.

A VPN will likely reduce your network speeds. This is because of the encryption and the tunnels your data has to travel through before communicating with Canal+ servers. However, slow streaming speeds are common in free VPNs. You’re less likely to experience such lag on premium VPNs.

Canal+ supports various devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, PlayStation, Xbox, and the web.

While in the past, you didn’t need to register to enjoy the content, today, Canal+ requires users to create an account to enjoy premium access. To watch content free and without an account, click “En Clair” at the top of the page.

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About the Author

Abeerah Hashim

Abeerah Hashim

Security Expert
173 Posts

Abeerah is a passionate technology blogger and cybersecurity enthusiast. She yearns to know everything about the latest technology developments. Specifically, she’s crazy about the three C’s; computing, cybersecurity, and communication. When she is not writing, she’s reading about the tech world.

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