If you’re a US citizen, you essentially enjoy unrestricted access to the best content available on various streaming platforms. You aren’t limited to streaming Netflix only. Instead, you can expand your watchlist by subscribing to other platforms like Disney+.
However, things go bitter when you lose access to this fantastic platform the moment you travel outside America.
Nonetheless, we have now resolved this matter for you once and for all. This guide teaches you how to enjoy Disney+ streaming outside the USA without hassle.
How to access Disney Plus outside the US – Quick guide
- Select and subscribe to a reputable VPN service. We recommend NordVPN.
- Set up the VPN on your device.
- Connect to an appropriate US server.
- Head over to the Disney+ login page and start streaming your favorite content.
Here is a quick list of our top VPNs
Here is a summary of our recommended VPNs if you are short on time.
- NordVPN: It is a good choice for fast streaming and privacy because of its strict no-logs policy and over 6,800 servers across 113 countries. Their global presence allows the VPN to resist blocking attempts.
- ExpressVPN: This popular VPN provides robust data security, a vast pool of servers, and obfuscated server technology. It has a strict no-logs policy and offers a no-risk 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: The VPN is a great affordable alternative to ExpressVPN, with over 3200 servers across 65 countries. It has even better features like unlimited simultaneous connections and an ad-blocker at no extra cost.
What is Disney+, and how can I watch it?
Disney+ is a streaming service launched in November 2019. It offers ad-free viewing of an extensive library of TV series, movies, and documentaries from providers like Star Wars, Disney, Marvel, and Pixar. The service has over 50 million subscribers and allows up to 4 devices to stream simultaneously, with unlimited downloads for offline viewing.
In addition, the service offers new originals like Toy Story, The Mandalorian, and music exclusives like Taylor Swift’s City of Lover Concert, among others. Thankfully, the VPNs in this article can unlock all Disney+ content.
Why can’t I watch Disney Plus abroad?
Before understanding why Disney+ is selectively available in the United States only, let’s quickly review what it is.
Precisely, Disney+ is a US-based OTT streaming platform powered by the famous Walt Disney Company. It’s a relatively new service formally launched in 2019 in the United States, Canada, and the Netherlands. Later, it expanded its footprints to a few more countries.
Today, the service enjoys a customer base of roughly 95 million users per its 2021 subscribers statistics, presumably from the locations where the service is available.
Predominantly, these countries belong to the Americas, Europe, Australia, and other countries like India and Japan. Also, some African countries receive Disney+ via third-party contributions. Whereas the service plans to extend its coverage to more countries this year and onward.
“With this huge and diversified presence, why can’t I easily watch Disney Plus outside America?” We hear you ask.
Well, this service, unfortunately for many users like you, is like those typical streaming services that apply content restrictions based on location. Like others, they also have to care for copyright and licensing issues.
Thus, even though the service is available in other countries, that specific US content library bearing all the exciting media isn’t available abroad.
In other words, you can stream Disney Plus from anywhere. But you’ll likely miss access to your favorite movie or TV show that is only available with the US library (unless you try the workarounds shared in this article).
Is it possible to stream Disney+ outside the US?
Although, you can’t unblock Disney+ US usually anywhere because the service has its own content availability practices for different regions.
Hence, if you are a fan of Disney+ USA, you won’t find the same content available in Italy, even though the service is offered there.
Wondering how the provider manages this location-specific content availability? Well, that’s done through your IP.
The platform employs IP tracking for incoming user requests. Through your IPs, the platform detects your location. It then presents the respective content permitted for your region to you.
This is the same practice through which other international streaming platforms like UK’s iPlayer and Canada’s CTV (to name a couple) manage content availability.
So, if you change your IP location, you can access the respective content library for that spoofed location.
Simply put, if you want to unblock Disney+ USA in Italy (for example), change your IP location to the USA.
Perhaps you can now guess the workaround we will suggest here – a VPN, of course.
As you know, VPNs let you change your IP address by connecting to servers from other locations. It saves you from the limitation of physically existing in a region to access the content.
Thus, just as VPNs unblock geo-restricted websites and apps for you, they also unblock streaming libraries on platforms like this.
Technically, you can also use a proxy or Smart DNS for this purpose. But these tools aren’t robust enough to mask your real details sufficiently. Hence, these services often face bans from the target platforms. Consequently, you can’t use a proxy or Smart DNS to unblock Disney+ outside the United States.
However, with a robust paid VPN, you can seamlessly stream your favorite TV programs and movies via the Disney+ app.
Best VPNs to watch Disney Plus outside the US
Our team has tested dozens of VPNs to save you time and protect you from the risks of randomly subscribing to a VPN. Unfortunately, only a handful of VPNs have proven to serve their customers genuinely.
Below, we elaborate on the top three VPNs that unblock Disney+ seamlessly. Without worrying about your money, you may subscribe to any of these (if you don’t have a VPN yet).
1. NordVPN
Besides offering premium support for online anonymity, NordVPN also works great for unblocking and streaming geo-restricted sites like Disney+.
Pros
- Super-fast speed across all servers
- Impressive privacy features
- Customer support is super-reliable
Cons
- Some bugs in doubleVPN feature
If you don’t want even a slight lag while streaming, NordVPN is a perfect choice.
In addition, these guys have implemented a strict no-logs policy for all users. It means you don’t have to worry about your data reaching your government or other tracking entities.
Besides speed and privacy, NordVPN has also established a substantial global presence. They have over 6,800 servers across 113 different countries. So, while you may not get a huge choice of location, you certainly get more servers from the same place. This capability, in turn, lets this VPN resist all VPN-blocking attempts.
If you’re a streaming fanatic, this VPN will be the best choice for enjoying uninterrupted streaming.
Still, if you wish to test this VPN first, you can surely do so by availing yourself of their 30-day money back guarantee. If you don’t like this VPN, have your money back – it’s as simple as that!
2. ExpressVPN
This fast-speed VPN boasts a massive network of thousands of servers, many belonging to the US. Thus, it is the best VPN to unblock Disney+ outside the US boundaries.
Pros
- Exceptional for unblocking geo-restricted sites Disney+ is no exception
- Blazing-fast servers
- Customer support with live chat available 24 hours a day
Cons
- Expensive than its rivals
ExpressVPN has been around for a decade. These service providers have maintained a balance between ensuring user privacy and abiding by laws throughout this time. Its strict no-logs policy is why it remains a popular VPN with a considerable customer base.
Aside from providing robust data security with military-grade encryption, ExpressVPN also facilitates users with its vast pool of servers.
Moreover, they also employ obfuscated server technology that resists VPN detection and bans.
Therefore, if you can afford to pay a little higher than others, ExpressVPN is worth the money.
Nonetheless, if you’re skeptical about its service, feel free to avail yourself of its no-risk 30-day money back guarantee. It means you don’t have to worry about risking your money while trying this VPN.
3. Surfshark
Besides unblocking Disney Plus abroad, the VPN also works great in unblocking foreign streaming platforms inside the United States.
Pros
- Simple interface
- Provides support for anonymous payments, including cryptocurrencies
- Customer service that is second to none
Cons
- Servers have different speeds
If you find ExpressVPN a costly solution, there is another choice: Surfshark VPN.
Surfshark has set up a network that is comparable to ExpressVPN. Precisely, they have over 3200 servers across 100 countries.
Plus, they offer almost all the features that ExpressVPN offers.
Moreover, they offer various security add-ons for their users at no extra cost. These include double VPN, Camouflage mode, adblocker, and malware protection.
So, while you may not get as many locations with Surfshark as you do with ExpressVPN, with all these features, this VPN is worth trying.
Its affordable subscription fee makes this VPN the best deal for streamers, gamers, torrents, and other hobbyist VPN users.
Disney+ VPNs testing methodology
Nowadays, most VPN providers use aggressive marketing techniques and deceptive service levels. So, finding a VPN that works with streaming platforms and offers the necessary privacy and security features can be difficult.
That is why our VPN testing methodology assesses factors such as server speed, app reliability, security robustness, customer support, and others.
- Robust security: Our primary focus when testing VPNs is to ensure that they offer privacy and security. To achieve this, we examine each VPN for any IP or DNS leaks and verify the strength of the encryption used to protect your data. We also assess additional security features, such as a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and obfuscation.
- Fast server speeds: Providers with a wide-reaching server network, including countries without VPN support, are desirable. We conducted tests to confirm their compatibility with other popular platforms like iPlayer, Netflix, and Hulu.
- Reliable apps: We examine the apps of each VPN to confirm that they provide all the necessary features to ensure your online safety. Our suggested VPNs have applications compatible with all the major operating systems like Android, Windows, iOS, and macOS, allowing you to stream Disney+ on any of your devices while on vacation.
- Outstanding customer support: We advise selecting VPNs with live chat and email support to assist when necessary.
- Advanced features: We search for VPNs that offer advanced extra features like automatic connection, split tunneling, multi-hop, port forwarding, Smart DNS, ad blocking, malware protection, and other elements that improve value.
- Price: We consider the price of a VPN when recommending a service, ensuring that it reflects the quality of the product and has value for money.
Can I use a free VPN to watch Disney+ outside the US
Yes, you can unblock Disney+ from anywhere worldwide with a free VPN. However, we discourage it because of several reasons.
First, most free VPNs track your activities and sell your data to third parties without authorization. On the other hand, premium VPN services, like NordVPN, adhere to a strict no-logs policy and do not collect user data.
Second, free VPNs cannot beat Disney+ geo-restrictions because of weak unblocking capabilities. Also, they have a few servers that are normally slow due to congestion. This will limit your streaming experience.
Third, free VPNs don’t include robust security measures, exposing you to everyone. For example, malicious actors can intercept your connections and steal your data or install malware on your device.
However, if you are on a budget and can’t afford premium VPNs, opt for freemium VPNs like Windscribe. These are premium services that offer free plans, too. Otherwise, you can use the free trial periods and money-back guarantees of premium VPNs like NordVPN.
VPN services that do not work with Disney+
If you’re having trouble accessing Disney+ with your VPN, it may not be an issue with the streaming service but rather with your VPN provider. When Disney+ was released, many people used VPNs to unblock it, causing Disney+ to crack down on popular VPN providers.
As a result, many Disney+ accounts were blocked, and many VPN providers were blocklisted. Today, only a few VPNs work with Disney+. Here is a list of VPNs that do not work with Disney+.
- Proton VPN
- BulletVPN
- TorguardVPN
- Tunnelbear
- Hotspot Shield
Other ways to watch Disney+ outside the US
These are other ways to unblock Disney Plus from anywhere worldwide.
Smart DNS
SmartDNS is an alternative method to bypass geographical restrictions and access restricted content. It works by concealing your Domain Name and making it appear like you are accessing the content from an unrestricted region. However, it is not always effective and does not provide top-notch security as a VPN.
Proxy server
The term “proxy” refers to acting on behalf of someone else, and a proxy server functions as a representative for the user. Acting as an intermediary between you and the internet conceals your identity and enables access to restricted content. However, proxy servers may pose security risks and may not always be effective in unlocking OTT (over-the-top) content.
How do you sign up and unblock the US version of Disney+ without a US payment method?
If you already have subscribed to Disney+, you may skip this section because you don’t have to worry about making payments outside the US. Instead, you need a VPN to change your virtual location to the USA and sign in to your account to start streaming.
However, first-time users may face trouble accessing this service even with a VPN. That’s because there’s no such Disney+ free application you can sign up for. And the platform does not support payment methods globally.
Does it mean you can’t ever watch Disney Plus outside America?
Not really! Here, we share a quick workaround to have a legit Disney+ account abroad.
Paying Disney+ via Apple iTunes (for iOS users)
- Log out of your existing Apple account.
- Set up the VPN on your device and connect to a US server.
- Visit the App Store and create a new Apple ID while selecting “United States” as the region.
- Buy an iTunes gift card with sufficient load to pay for your Disney+ subscription.
- Redeem the gift card on the App Store.
- Proceed to download the Disney+ app on your device.
- Sign up for Disney+ and enter your gift card as your payment option.
Once you have an account, you can stream your favorite media across all your devices.
Making payments via Google Play Store (for Android users)
- Sign out of your existing Google account on your device.
- Set up the VPN on your device and connect to a US server.
- Create a new Google account while selecting the United States as your Google Play country.
- Now, buy a Google gift card that is enough to pay your Disney+ subscription fee.
- Sign in to the Play Store with your new Google account.
- Redeem your gift card code on the Play Store.
- Proceed to download the Disney+ app on your device.
- Create your account with Disney+ while entering any US zip code (you can search for one online) when asked.
- Select your gift card as the payment option.
- Sign in to your Disney+ account and start streaming.
Once done, you can watch Disney Plus on all devices, even outside the US. Use your newly created account to start streaming. (Don’t forget to use the VPN on that device to spoof your location as the US.)
Using a virtual US card
Making payments via a virtual gift card is an excellent alternative to using the Play Store or App Store. Here’s how to proceed.
- Ensure you have an active VPN connection and a US IP.
- Visit any reputable website to get virtual gift cards, such as giftcards.com, to get a virtual credit card functional for the US.
- Load up your virtual credit card and share it with your email address. You can even fund the card with your existing debit/credit cards.
- Activate your virtual card (if not activated already) to use it for making payments.
- Sign up to Disney+ (or login), and enter the virtual credit card details as your payment method.
- Complete your subscription process and enjoy streaming your favorite media.
Disney+ payment method via StatesCard virtual prepaid card
There is a workaround if your payment method doesn’t work in a country where Disney+ is available. You can sign up for a virtual prepaid card with a VPN to get a local IP address.
Here is how to sign up for Disney Plus in the US with a StatesCard virtual prepaid card.
Note: While StatesCard isn’t free, it is an affordable option if you are stuck. Moreover, it will offer you a US billing address to use when signing up for Disney Plus.
1. Subscribe to a VPN
Sign up for a reliable VPN service like NordVPN. Thankfully, all its plans have a no-question-asked 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Install the VPN
Download and install the VPN app on your device and sign in to your account.
3. Connect to a US server
Navigate to the server list and connect to any option in the US. NordVPN has a search bar that enables you to get a specific server.
4. Configure your prepaid card
Visit statescard.com and click the ‘Sign Up Now’ button.
5. Create an account
Input an email address, create a password, confirm the password, and click ‘Sign up.’ Click on the link sent to your email address to verify it.
6. Input your personal information
Enter your personal details and click ‘Next’. This will be your billing information and address.
7. Load money to your StatesCard
Select how much you want to add to your card. It should be enough to cover the Disney Plus subscription, including tax. Note that the total amount will also include the fees for using the card. Choose your payment method and click ‘Confirm order.’
8. Enter your payment information
The next page will depend on your payment method. For example, PayPal will require you to log in or create a new account. On the other hand, for credit cards, input your payment details and click ‘Pay.’
9. Check your StatesCard account
Verify whether your StatesCard account has loaded the funds you need to subscribe to Disney Plus. Also, you’ll get a US billing address when signing up for Disney Plus.
10. Visit the Disney Plus website
Open the Disneyplus.com website, navigate to ‘choose your plan,’ and click the ‘Disney+’ button. Choose your preferred subscription plan – either Basic (ads) or Premium (no ads). The basic plan only has a monthly subscription option.
11. Enter your email
Input your email address and click ‘Agree & continue.’
12. Enter a password
Create a password and click ‘Continue.’
13. Select your payment method
Click on the ‘credit card’ tab to use the StatesCard you loaded with the funds above. Input your prepaid card information, including the US zip code the StatesCard provided to you and your date of birth. Then, navigate down and click ‘Agree & subscribe.’ Now, you have signed up for Disney+ and can enjoy your favorite content.
Signing up to Disney+ via PayPal
- Create a new PayPal account (while having a US IP). You can enter any US state and zip code in the required details. (You can even enter the state of your VPN server location to look legit.)
- Sign up for a US virtual card service, like Revolut, and link it with your bank account.
- Now link the Revolut virtual card to your newly created PayPal account using the “Link a card or bank” option.
- Once done, head on to subscribe to Disney+ and choose PayPal as your payment method. You can now pay for your subscription via this Revolut-integrated PayPal account without needing a US bank account.
- After completing the Disney Plus sign-up process, you can search for your favorite movie or TV show and start streaming anywhere outside the US.
How much does a Disney Plus subscription cost
The price of Disney Plus varies depending on the bundle you choose. The monthly package costs $7.99 per month, while the annual package costs $79.99 per year. So, you can save almost $16 by purchasing the yearly package.
Disney Plus will soon introduce a new, more affordable ad-supported plan. You can sign up for a free 7-day trial to try the service. Moreover, it allows you to create up to 6 profiles on a single Disney Plus account and download videos to watch offline.
Additionally, you can use the group watch feature to stream content with your friends or family. Canceling your subscription is also hassle-free.
How to watch Disney Plus outside the US: The step-by-step, detailed guide
Now that you know which VPN you should use, you may ask how to use these services to stream your favorite shows.
So, without further ado, here’s a step-by-step guide for you.
1. Subscribe to the VPN
You can choose either one of the VPNs recommended above or go for any other VPN. Once you decide on a service, create your account and subscribe to an appropriate pricing plan.
2. Download and install the VPN on your device
After completing the registration process, you can download the VPN app to your device. You will certainly find a dedicated VPN app for your PC, laptop, smartphone, or other device.
Once the download is complete, execute the setup to install the VPN. You may need to sign in to your account to complete the installation process.
3. Connect to an appropriate server
Since you need to unblock and watch Disney Plus outside America, you should connect to a US server on your VPN. Make sure you choose a fast-speed server to enjoy uninterrupted streaming.
If your VPN offers dedicated streaming servers, you should use them, as they offer superfast speeds.
4. Sign in to Disney+
Once your VPN connection is established, check your connection for IP leaks (if you went with any of the VPNs listed above, you wouldn’t have any leaks). If everything looks okay, you’re safe to begin streaming.
Go to the Disney+ app, sign in to your account, and start streaming like you do in the USA.
Which devices do I need to stream Disney Plus from anywhere?
Disney+ is one of those streaming platforms that are selectively available despite featuring good content. Therefore, you cannot stream the service in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and many Asian and African countries unless you use the aforementioned methods.
After knowing about all this, you might wonder if device limitations exist.
Fortunately, Disney+ has no specific device requirements. So you can easily download their app on your Android and iOS devices or use your PC (Windows, Mac, and Linux) to enjoy streaming.
Likewise, the platform also supports Firestick, Roku, Smart TVs, Apple TV, and gaming consoles, including PS and Xbox One.
So, you only need to ensure you get a VPN that supports these devices like the recommended ones. After that, you can stream Disney+ outside the US on any device.
How to watch Disney+ on your PC, Mac, or Windows
To access Disney Plus on your Windows or Mac using a VPN, follow these steps:
- First, install a trustworthy VPN on your computer. We suggest using NordVPN.
- Connect to a server located in a country where Disney Plus is available.
- Then, open your web browser and go to the Disney Plus website.
- Log in to your account or sign up if you haven’t already done so.
- Browse the selection of movies and TV shows and stream your favorite content.
Watch Disney+ on your Android or iPhone:
Make sure you choose a VPN that is compatible with your mobile device and follow this procedure:
- Choose and download a trustworthy VPN. We recommend NordVPN for mobile devices.
- Install the VPN on a laptop that can create a mobile hotspot or on your router.
- Connect to a server located where Disney Plus is available.
- For iPhone users, download the Disney Plus app from the App Store. Android users can find it on the Google Play Store.
- Sign in to your account, browse the selection, and enjoy!
How to watch Disney+ on your Smart TV
Follow these steps to watch Disney+ on your smart TV
- Choose a VPN that is compatible with your Smart TV. NordVPN is a great option.
- Select server locations where Disney Plus is available.
- Download the Disney Plus app on your Smart TV.
- Log in to your account, browse the selection, and enjoy your favorite shows and movies.
How to watch Disney+ on streaming devices
The process of streaming Disney+ may differ depending on the device. Since VPN apps aren’t supported on devices such as Kodi, Roku, Firestick, and Apple TV, you’ll need to install the VPN on your router. Follow these steps:
- Choose a VPN for streaming, like NordVPN.
- Install the VPN on your wifi router.
- Select server locations where Disney Plus is available, such as the US.
- Connect your streaming device to your TV.
- Launch the Disney Plus app, sign in to your account, and enjoy your favorite shows and movies!
What can I Watch on Disney Plus in 2024?
Disney Plus offers a diverse range of content from various brands, including Disney, Marvel, Pixar, Stars, and National Geographic. The platform allows users to switch the language of their preferred shows and movies, making it more accessible. Once you bypass the location restrictions, your favorite titles will become available. The following list details the best shows and movies on Disney Plus in 2024.
Top Disney+ movies in 2024?
These are the latest movies on Disney Plus
- The Lion King
- The princess bride
- Diary of a Wimpy Kin
- The Incredibles
- The Muppet Christmas
- The Avengers
- Hamilton
Top Disney+ shows for 2024?
- LEGO Star Wars Summer Vacation 2022
- Star Wars: Andor
- The Mysterious Benedict Society
- The Santa Clauses
- The Walking Dead
- Hawkeye
- The Mandalorian
- In the Soop: Freindcation
- Willow
- Giganotosaurus
- Sumo Do, Sumo Don’t
- Glee
New content on Disney+ in August 2024
Disney Plus has an exciting lineup this January, including Pixar adventures, the New Marvel series, magical Disney classics, Star Wars spin-offs, and more.
- The Bear Season 2
- The Watchful Eye
- Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Season 2
- The First Responders Season 2
- Protectors (Los Protectores) Season 2
- Yuzuru Special Edition Gift 2023
- Weekend Family Season 2
- Assembled The Making of Ant-Man and The Wasp Quantumania
- Cesar Millan Better Human Better Dog Season 3
- Boogeyman
Disney+ not working with a VPN: Troubleshooting tips
Many reasons can cause your VPN to stop working with Disney+. Here are some troubleshooting tips.
- Switch to a different server – Popular streaming services, like Disney+, actively hunt and block VPN IP addresses. If your connection stops when you open Disney+, chances are your server is blocklisted. So, try another server.
- Stop IP leakage – Activate your VPN’s features like kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection to prevent data leakage.
- Clear your cookies – Cookies maintain your private information, including your location. The best solution is to clear them before connecting to a VPN server.
- Disable or change your GPS location – Popular streaming services like Disney+ use IP and GPS data to ascertain your location.
- Use a different browser – Your browser settings might make Disney+ determine your location. So, using a different browser might solve the issue.
- Try a different VPN – Some VPNs are unable to bypass Disney+ geo-restrictions. So, you should use our recommendations above, as we’ve tested them thoroughly.
FAQs
While it isn’t entirely legal, it’s not illegal, either. However, you’re using a VPN to bypass content restrictions. But, as far as you neither violate copyright regulations nor indulge in content piracy, it’s somewhat acceptable. Indeed, this is what VPNs are meant for. Plus, even if Disney+ and other such services detect VPNs, they block content streaming. So you won’t likely face any account bans in such cases. Nor would this act make you face any legal consequences. However, make sure that VPNs are legal in your country. Otherwise, you’ll surely be in trouble.
First, make sure your VPN is secure enough to resist blocking and that it does unblock streaming platforms. Then, if your VPN is one such service, try clearing your device cache. Often, this will resolve the error for you. If not, switch your servers and see if it works. Finally, if you continue getting an error, contact your VPN support and discuss the matter with them. You’ll surely get a permanent solution.
Not really. Disney+ offers full availability in the UK, just like in the USA. However, differences may exist in the type of content available in the UK. If you want to stream USA content, use a VPN to change your location.
To access live sports on Disney Plus, you must acquire the Disney Bundle, which consists of Disney Plus and ESPN+.
Like many popular streaming platforms, Disney+ has VPN-blocking features. Nevertheless, the VPNs featured in this article can unblock Disney+ from anywhere worldwide. Also, you don’t need to worry about losing access. Our recommendations typically provide a solution within a few days whenever a major streaming service improves its VPN-blocking capabilities.