5 Best VPNs for France in 2024

Using the internet is relatively free in France, but recent laws allow government agencies to invade your online privacy. The recent data retention laws and the country’s inclusion in the 9-Eyes alliance indicate how the authorities monitor the residents and visitors within French boundaries. That is why you need to use a VPN.

Apart from protecting your data and activities, a VPN helps to bypass geographic restrictions and access content from anywhere. In addition, if you have travelled abroad, you can access your bank and other local content.

In this article article, we list the top VPN services that you can use in France for safe browsing.

Quick summary of the best VPNs for France

We’ll have a detailed analysis of each service later, but here is a quick summary if you are short on time:

1. NordVPN – A reliable VPN service for France. Boasts an impressive list of features such as AES 256-bit encryption, TrustedServer technology, Network Lock, expansive server network, and split tunneling.
2. Private Internet Access (PIA) –  Boasts the most extensive server network in the industry. It supports all the major devices and allows ten simultaneous connections, split tunneling, a kill switch, a strict no-logs policy, and 24/7 live chat.
3. ExpressVPN – Affordable option to browse with a France IP address. The provider has several VPN servers in France, strong encryption, zero-logs policy, DNS leak protection, double-VPN, and CyberSec ad blocker.
4. Surfshark – Best budget-friendly VPN for France. Bears numerous attractions such as unlimited simultaneous connections, MultiHop servers, camouflage mode, CleanWeb ad blocker, Whitelister, kill switch, Private DNS, and AES 256-bit encryption.
5. Proton VPN – Best free VPN with a France location. Its main features include open-source apps, a firm zero-logs policy, secure core servers, a NetShield ad blocker, perfect forward secrecy, and a 30-day money back guarantee.

Why is a VPN necessary in France?

France has internet restrictions like many other countries worldwide. While not as severe as in some countries like China, Russia, or Cuba, it can still give you a frustrating online experience. So, France VPN can come in handy in the following ways.

1. Protect your data from government surveillance: France is part of the 5/9/14-Eyes surveillance alliance, which allows online data sharing with other countries and third parties. The country has also increased the monitoring of online activities since 2015. Thankfully, a VPN encrypts your data, making it difficult for the government to access.
2. Unblock restricted websites: The French government blocks harmful websites that encourage terrorism, racism, social profiling, etc. However, some innocent websites get blocked, making them inaccessible. Fortunately, a VPN allows you to spoof your location and access any blocked website.
3. Avoid ISP surveillance and throttling: Internet Service Providers (ISPs) slow down your connection speed if they detect data-intensive activities like torrenting. They also collaborate with the government to monitor your online activities. Using a VPN conceals your online activities and prevents your ISP from seeing what you do online.
4. Unblock streaming platforms: France has many great movies, but some streaming platforms are not accessible. Also, some streaming services like Netflix offer varied content in different countries. For example, Netflix US is more extensive than other libraries worldwide. A streaming VPN can bypass the geo-restrictions of these services and enable you to access whatever content you want.
5. Access torrents without restrictions: France’s laws on piracy are strict, making torrenting a significant issue. The good news is that a torrenting VPN provides protection and anonymity for downloading torrents safely.
6. Access cheaper flights: France is a developed country with a high standard of living. However, flights can be expensive. You can purchase cheaper flight tickets using a VPN to change your location to another less-developed country.

What to look out for in a VPN for France

France does not restrict internet usage, but geo-blocks may prevent you from accessing specific sites and services. So, the first thing to consider when choosing a France VPN is the unblocking capability. It must be able to unblock geo-blocked content on multiple streaming sites.

Additionally, a reliable VPN should protect your data and traffic from malicious actors on the internet. Some of the critical security features you should look out for include AES encryption, a kill switch, and a malware blocker. Moreover, it should hide your IP address and change your location so nobody can trace your activities.

Regrettably, France is a member of the 14-Eyes Alliance, a group of countries that share intelligence information.

Besides, in 2015, the French parliament passed a law, ‘Loi relative au renseignement.’ This law is at the forefront of compromising your online privacy. It compels the country’s internet service providers (ISPs) to monitor users’ activities and report anything suspicious. Hence, you should choose a VPN with a strict no-logs policy for retaining identifiable information.

Another dominant factor that differentiates great and mediocre VPNs is speed. Although many variables affect speed, you wouldn’t want a slow VPN connection. Notably, a VPN with an extensive server network has better speed as the traffic load gets distributed evenly. In addition, connecting to a nearby server provides improved speed as the data packet travels a short distance.

Sometimes, things can go wrong even with the best VPN. Therefore, choose a provider with reliable customer service. The team should be knowledgeable and available all the time. It should also provide 24/7 live chat besides email and phone support.

Best VPN services for France – The detailed analysis

After vetting dozens of providers, the following VPNs managed to grab our attention with their superior performance. Thankfully, they all boast servers in France and robust security features, so you can safely unblock any content or app you want.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is a reliable VPN service to bypass France’s content geo-restrictions. That is because it runs more than 230 servers in two France locations. Hence, you can stream French movies and TV shows seamlessly if you have traveled abroad.

Overall, the VPN has over 5,400 servers in 60 other countries. So, you can access blocked content in other regions if you live in France.

VPNs are known to reduce internet speed because of the encryption process. However, NordVPN is among the fastest VPNs, performing excellently during our tests. The consistent connection lets you stream, torrent, and play online games without buffering or lagging.

Besides, NordVPN uses AES 256-bit encryption to secure your traffic and data. Furthermore, it provides perfect forward secrecy to change your encryption frequently to maintain anonymity.

As for VPN protocols, NordVPN offers several options. First, it has the NordLynx protocol based on the speed-enhancing WireGuard protocol, strengthened with a NAT firewall. Other supported protocols include OpenVPN TCP/UDP, PPTP, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPsec.

The VPN has a useful customizable kill switch feature that works at both the app and the device levels.

NordVPN strictly follows its zero-logs policy. According to its privacy policy, it does not store any identifiable information. Also, it has undergone independent audits by PricewaterhouseCoopers to verify its logging practices. As a bonus, the VPN is headquartered in Panama, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction.

Another remarkable NordVPN feature is CyberSec, which prevents intrusive ads, trackers, and malware from installing on your device.

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2. Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access (PIA) is another worthy VPN with over 147 servers in France, enabling you to watch your favorite movies and TV shows. Some accessible French channels include TV5 Monde, Arte, France TV, France O, etc.

Besides, the company has approximately 35,000 servers in 84 countries. We tested it in some locations and got excellent browsing, streaming, torrenting, and gaming speeds.

Regarding security, PIA allows you to choose the encryption level you want as it supports both AES 128-bit (default) and AES 256-bit encryption. Both encryptions are secure and will keep you safe online.

In addition, all the apps have OpenVPN as the default protocol, but you can choose between TCP and UDP connections. The exclusion is iOS, which features the IPsec protocol. Also, you can manually configure L2TP/IPsec, Socks5 proxy, and PPTP. The VPN recently introduced WireGuard, the newest protocol praised for improved speeds and security.

Besides, PIA supports customized browsing with the split tunneling feature.

Although the provider is headquartered in the US, hence it is obliged to follow all the laws. That also includes handing over users’ data to the government authorities if requested. The US is also a member of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance.

However, PIA doesn’t record traffic logs, IP addresses, or anything identifiable, thereby preserving users’ privacy.

All PIA apps have an ad blocker, which you can activate easily via the settings. Besides blocking annoying advertisements, the MACE feature also thwarts malware and trackers.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is arguably the best French VPN, thanks to its easy subscription, user-friendly apps, and no-risk money-back guarantee. Once you subscribe to it, you’ll get an activation code and link through your email. After that, downloading and installing the app takes less than three minutes.

It has a massive network of over 3,000 servers in 94 countries worldwide. This includes several servers in France spread across Paris and Strasbourg. You can get a France IP address to access geo-blocked content and apps.

The provider integrates TrustedServer Technology into the entire server network. It ensures that all the servers run on RAM, which cannot retain data. That’s what they boast already: a strict no-logs policy that they can easily implement due to their privacy-friendly base in the British Virgin Islands. It only retains the data you provide when creating an account, like email and payment particulars.

Regarding security, ExpressVPN uses state-of-the-art features to protect your connections. These include strong encryption, SHA-512 HMAC authentication, 4096-bit RSA key, and perfect forward secrecy (PFS).

The kill switch feature has become standard in the industry. ExpressVPN calls it Network Lock, which protects your traffic and IP address if the VPN disconnects. Unfortunately, it is not available on iOS devices.

Besides, ExpressVPN also provides DNS leak protection to guarantee your anonymity.

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4. Surfshark

Surfshark is the best option to unblock streaming platforms from France. Since it operates multiple servers in Paris, Bordeaux, and Marseille, you wouldn’t face problems accessing French content abroad.

Besides, it has over 3200 servers in 100 countries to let you access other regions’ content in France. For example, you can use its US servers to watch popular sporting events like NBA, MLB, etc. It also has reliable, fast-speed UK, Germany, Canada, Spain, and India servers.

Besides bypassing geo-restrictions, the entire network supports P2P sharing. Moreover, it offers unrestricted bandwidth to download and share torrents without issues.

Surshark provides top-tier security features to keep you safe. First, it uses military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, 2048-bit DHE-RSA key exchange, and SHA-512 authentication. Second, just like ExpressVPN, it has 100% diskless servers.

Most importantly, it has a strict no-logs policy, assuring no data retention. Thus, even the French government cannot access your activities.

Apart from the standard protocols OpenVPN and IKEv2, Surfshark also offers WireGuard and Shadowsocks, the latest protocols in the industry. WireGuard is known for improving speeds and security. Conversely, Shadowsocks is designed to help you bypass ultra-aggressive internet restrictions like the Great Firewall of China.

Surfshark offers privacy-oriented features such as a kill switch, DNS/IP leak protection, and MultiHop servers. Moreover, its Camouflage mode lets you evade VPN detection technologies.

Surfshark works well with almost all devices, including macOS, Android, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Amazon Fire. With slight differences in the layout, all apps are straightforward to use. Fortunately, you can connect unlimited devices with a single plan.

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5. Proton VPN

Proton VPN has the smallest network on this list, with over 2,600 servers in 60+ countries. Thankfully, it has numerous servers in France to let you access geo-blocked content. Although, it isn’t as fast as its competitors. Still, it offers speeds adequate for most online activities.

The VPN has robust security features to protect you when using the internet. These include AES 256-bit encryption jazzed up with 4096-bit RSA key exchange and perfect forward secrecy. The additional Secure Core feature offers specialized servers that route traffic through privacy-friendly countries such as Iceland and Switzerland.

Unlike other VPNs such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN, Proton VPN only offers two security protocols: OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec. However, they are still reliable and will secure your connections.

Proton VPN’s privacy policy is straightforward and transparent. It does not record users’ identifiable information. Moreover, the provider is based in Switzerland, which is reputed for upholding privacy.

Nonetheless, you can use the Tor over VPN service to achieve superior online anonymity in France. It directly routes your traffic through the Tor Network, eliminating the need to install the Tor browser.

Besides, it offers a dedicated feature to prevent ads, trackers, and malware. Unfortunately, the NetShield feature is only available on the Plus and Visionary packages.

Proton VPN is an excellent free VPN for France. However, the free version is limited, supporting only one device and three server locations. Also, the connection speed is a bit slow compared to the paid packages. Yet, it’s still safer than other completely free VPNs.

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Comparison of the best France VPNs at a glance

In the table below, we have compared the top 5 VPNs for France:

	NordVPN	PIA	ExpressVPN	Surfshark	Proton VPN
Logging practices	No-logs	No-logs	No-logs	No-logs	No-logs
Split tunneling	Available on all apps	Windows app	Windows app	Available on all apps	Windows and Android apps
Kill switch	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Torrenting	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Price range	$3.99 – $11.95	$2.69 – $9.95	$8.32 – $12.95	$2.49 – $12.95	$4 – $24
Headquarter location	Panama	USA	The British Virgin Islands	The Netherlands	Switzerland
Extensive review	NordVPN	PIA	ExpressVPN	Surfshark	Proton VPN

How we selected and tested these VPNs

We cross-checked strengths and flaws to rank our top VPNs. Below are the criteria we used to test the services:

• French servers: The VPNs on this list have many servers in France. So you will get speedy connections and access to local content.
• Robust encryption: These VPNs employ solid AES-256-bit encryption that ensures none of your data is accessible by third parties.
• Privacy: We checked if the VPNs have an independently audited no-logs policy and are based in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction.
• Security: All our top VPNs provide essential security features, including DNS leak protection, effective kill switch, and P2P support.
• Streaming: We tested whether these VPNs can unblock streaming websites in many regions worldwide.

Is using a free VPN okay in France?

Free VPNs are readily available, and a quick search on Google and Reddit will give you infinite options. As the name suggests, these providers don’t charge anything for their services to entice users.

However, you should avoid such options altogether. Since running and operating a server network is expensive, free VPNs must devise other ways to make money to continue their operations. In most cases, they’ll bombard you with all types of intrusive ads and even sell your data.

To make matters worse, you may contract malware with a free VPN. A recent CSIRO study also found that most free VPNs contain malware. Moreover, you won’t get the same customer service or speed as subscription-based services.

VPNs to avoid in France

Not all VPNs available are good. Some providers collect users’ information and illegally sell it to third parties or hand them over to authorities. Here are some services you must avoid if you value your privacy.

1. Betternet

Betternet is one of the top results you’ll get if you search for a free VPN. Apparently, the VPN looks reliable as it offers fast connections and allows several simultaneous connections. However, this is not charity, as the company earns money back through its ad platform. It accesses your cookies to barrage you with unending advertisements.

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2. Hola VPN

Hola is an Israeli-based VPN service. It rose to prominence for developing a browser plugin that bypasses geo-restrictions easily. However, it was caught engaging in fraudulent activities such as selling users’ data, monitoring browsing history, and diverting traffic.

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3. Hide My Ass

Hide My Ass is a free VPN service based in the UK. However, in 2011, the company cooperated with authorities and handed over a user’s login credentials. Ironically, this entire event happened despite claiming a zero-logs policy.

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How to get a French IP outside France

After reading about using VPNs in France, you might wonder if you can use the VPN to get a French IP abroad. Of course, this would help you stay connected to your local French stuff regardless of where you go.

So, here are some quick steps to use a VPN outside France and get a French IP address.

1. Choose a robust VPN provider and subscribe to it. You can choose any of the best VPNs listed above. But the recommended option that will help you out anywhere is ExpressVPN.
2. Download the respective VPN client on your device. You can easily install ExpressVPN on your computers, phones, and routers.
3. Open the VPN app, choose a server from France, and connect to it.
4. Once your connection is established, check your IP address. You should ideally see a French IP address, the same one that your VPN client shows. If you see that, you can start surfing French content. (It would be ideal to clear your device and/or browser cache first.)

But since that’s a paid option, how do I get a French IP address anywhere for free? We hear you ask.

You can still use ExpressVPN to get a French IP at no cost. That’s because it offers a trial with a 30-day no-risk money-back guarantee. You can easily subscribe to the VPN and request a refund before the 30-day period ends. Then, sit back and relax as the VPN provider processes the refund for you.

Sounds cool? Check out this detailed guide to get a free NordVPN trial to see how to use it for a month.

Online censorship in France

The Constitution grants French citizens freedom of speech. This allows them to discuss all topics, including social and political topics, freely. However, laws have been put in place due to terrorism that may affect freedom of speech.

The 2014 anti-terrorism law in France punishes speech apologizing for terrorism with a fine of 100,000 euros and up to 7 years in prison.

An example of law enforcement is in the case of Khader Cikilli, who was imprisoned for five years for “apologizing for terrorism,” which involved sharing propaganda and videos related to terrorism.

Another example is when a political party member received a suspended one-year sentence for making fun of a police officer’s death during a terrorist attack in Trebes.

In 2018, a law called for the instant withdrawal of any fake news during an election period. Violators can receive 1 year in prison and a fine of 75,000 euros. President Emmanuel Macron is also considering permanently banning convicted hate speech offenders from social media.

Moreover, the Government hasn’t applied any restrictions on torrenting and streaming geo-restricted content.

Torrenting in France

Torrenting in France is legal if you share original materials such as software fixes in firms, personal photos, etc. On the other hand, it is illegal to torrent intellectual property and copyrighted content.

The Regulatory Authority for Audiovisual and Digital Communication (Arcom) is a French agency that combats online piracy. It safeguards rights holders and works together with ISPs. Your ISP might forward your traffic to Arcom if it detects P2P connections.

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French content you can watch with a VPN

France offers a wide range of streaming content libraries. This ranges from sports to movies to watching Netflix. The following is what you should expect after connecting to a French VPN server:

• Unblock Netflix France: Access famous TV shows like Manifest, Rick and Morty, and High Heat. Also, you can watch an extensive list of excellent movies such as Hostel, The Fall, Gran Torino, and more.
• Access Disney+: A French IP address can unblock the Disney+ library. Enjoy phenomenon films like Prey and Jojo Rabbit or stream shows like Prison Break.
• Amazon Prime Video is available in France: Amazon Prime Video in France offers a fantastic cinema experience since you can stream movies like Black Venus, Les Miserables, The Intouchables, and more.
• Enjoy French events: France offers various streaming services for world-renowned events, including the Cannes Film Festival, Tour de France, French Open, Ligue 1, and more.

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What French TV channels can I watch using a VPN?

A VPN can help you watch French television from anywhere worldwide. You need to pick a premium VPN service like ExpressVPN and connect to a server in France to access any geo-blocked content. 

Some of the free channels in France include:

• LCP
• BFM TV
• TV5
• Monde
• Euronews
• Arte
• France24
• Play TV
• Gulli
• France4
• France3
• France2
• M6
• TF 1
• Pluzz
• Eurosport

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Internet use in France: what is its future?

France is a pro-privacy nation. For instance, French authorities levied a fine of $166,777 on Facebook due to concerns about tracking user data illegally.

However, over the years, people’s privacy rights have declined. For example, in 2015, President Hollande implemented Emergency powers, authorizing the government to execute random raids, house arrests, and confiscate any electronic device without a warrant. Furthermore, France’s constitutional council passed another law that mandates internet service providers (ISPs) to monitor online activities and report suspicious users.

This law has raised concerns as the government can exploit it for widespread online surveillance. You need a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your data and redirect your web traffic via a remote server. This will prevent third parties like your ISP, government, or hackers from intercepting your connections. 

Moreover, the United Nations Human Rights Committee has criticized the law for granting extensive authority for intrusive surveillance. The report recommends that the French government balance the possibility of snooping in private life based on need, proportionality, and legality.

The law also permits intelligence authorities to install surveillance tools in private households. For example, they can install Keylogger on devices and keep metadata for at least five years.

Other advocacy agencies, including La Quadrature du Net and Privacy International, have condemned the law for lacking judicial authorization. They also state that there is a significant deterioration of human rights in France.

Is using a VPN legal in France?

VPN usage in France is legal, like in most countries worldwide. However, you shouldn’t use it for illegal activities like downloading copyrighted content or stalking.

Remember that using a VPN might violate certain sites’ terms of service, such as Netflix France. However, it is not illegal, and the only worst thing that can happen is your IP address blockage. Fortunately, you can overcome this issue by getting a new IP address.

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