How to watch Disney plus outside the US in 2022

Abeerah Hashim  - Associate Editor
Last updated: October 30, 2022
Read time: 14 minutes Disclosure
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This comprehensive guide uncovers how to watch Disney Plus anywhere in the world. Besides VPNs, I’ll also explain a workaround for managing the subscription payments from outside the USA.

For binge streamers, nothing else is more blissful than to have 24/7 access to their favorite shows.

Particularly, 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+.

Disney+ has one of the best content libraries with top-notch movies and TV shows. That’s the reason why the platform has become so popular today.

However, things go bitter when you lose access to this fantastic platform the moment you travel outside America. Of course, you’d wonder why you can’t watch Disney Plus outside US merely because of a location change. But that’s how it works.

Nonetheless, we now resolve this matter for you once and for all. This guide teaches you how to enjoy Disney+ streaming outside the USA without hassle.

A quick guide to watching Disney Plus outside US

  1. Select and subscribe to a reputable VPN service. We recommend ExpressVPN as it has a demonstrated history of unblocking restricted content safely without compromising connection speed.
  2. Set up the VPN on your device. Right after subscription, you can proceed to download the respective VPN app on your device. It will then only require a few clicks from you to complete the installation process.
  3. Connect to an appropriate US server. While you can connect to any server from the US, if your VPN offers dedicated streaming servers, you can choose them as well.
  4. Head over to the Disney+ login page and start streaming your favorite content. Simple as that.

Why can’t I watch Disney Plus abroad?

Before getting to 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.

Diney Plus unavailable error message PS
You’ll see an error message while trying to access Diney+ abroad without a VPN.

With this huge and diversified presence, why can’t I watch Disney Plus outside the US easily?” 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+ 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.

In simple words, 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 sufficiently mask your real details. 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

Now that you know you can use VPNs to watch Disney+ anywhere, you might wonder what your choice should be.

You won’t be wrong at this point because choosing the right VPN is the most critical step in bypassing content restrictions.

Particularly, when it’s about subscribing to paid VPNs, you need to be even more careful. If you don’t subscribe to the right VPN, you will fail to access your desired content and risk your money.

Wondering how to choose a VPN that best fits your needs? Here’s what your VPN should necessarily offer.

  • Fast speed connectivity
  • Multiple servers from different locations. (It should offer numerous servers from the locations you wish to connect to.)
  • Robust military-grade encryption
  • Kill-switch
  • No data logging
  • Unlimited bandwidth
  • Multiple simultaneous device connections
  • Wide range of compatible devices
  • Affordable subscription fee

You might feel overwhelmed after going through this list of prerequisites you should look for in a VPN. Indeed, it would take a lot of time to assess multiple VPNs merely to pick the right one.

Therefore, our team has tested dozens of VPNs to save you time and protect you from the risks of randomly subscribing to a VPN. Unfortunately, from those, only a handful of VPNs proved 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).

Yet, if you wish to get a wider choice of VPNs, check out this detailed list of the best VPNs.

1. ExpressVPN

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.

servers Covers more than 90 countries with 3,200+ speedy VPN servers
encryption Robust encryption AES-256
protection Effective protection against DNS/IPv6 leaks
P2P optimized servers Compatible for P2P servers
network lock feature Automatic lock network
Trusted servers nord Reliable TrustedServer technology
Zero-logs policy Does not retain logs
simultaneous connections Supports up to five devices with one subscription
money-back guarantee Money-back guarantee of 30 days
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 makes it resist VPN detection and bans.

Therefore, if you can afford to pay a fee 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 moneyback guarantee. It means you don’t have to worry about risking your money while trying this VPN.


2. Surfshark

SurfsharkVPN

Besides unblocking Disney Plus abroad, the VPN also works great in unblocking foreign streaming platforms inside the United States.

servers More than 3,000 secure servers spread across 65 different countries
encryption AES-256-bit military-grade encryption
P2P optimized servers P2P capability on multiple servers
MultiHop mode Boasts DoubleVPN feature
protection Strong protection against DNS leaks
Kill switch Kill switch is at auto-mode
Ad Blocker feature Has CleanWeb ad-blocker
Camouflage mode Reliable Camouflage-mode
simultaneous connections No limit for simultaneous connections
money-back guarantee Offers money-back guarantee of 30 days
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, then here is another choice for you – Surfshark VPN.

Surfshark has set up a network comparable to ExpressVPN. Precisely, they have over 3200 servers across 65 countries.

Plus, they offer almost all those features that ExpressVPN offers.

Moreover, they also offer various security add-ons for their users at no extra cost. These include double VPN, Camouflage mode, adblocker, malware protection, and more.

So, while you may not get as many locations with Surfshark as you do with ExpressVPN, still, with all these features, this VPN is worth trying.

Plus, its affordable subscription fee makes this VPN the best deal for streamers, gamers, torrenters, and other hobbyist VPN users.


3. NordVPN

NordVPN

Besides offering premium support for online anonymity, NordVPN also works great for unblocking and streaming geo-restricted sites like Disney+.

servers More than 5,000 super-secure servers spread across 60 countries
P2P optimized servers P2P optimized servers
encryption Robust encryption of AES-256
simultaneous connections Allows up to six simultaneous devices per subscription
Kill switch Kill switch is customizable
Zero-logs policy Implements strict no-logs policy
protection Strong protection against DNS/IPv6 leak
money-back guarantee Reliable money-back guarantee (30 days)
Pros
  • Super-fast speed across all servers
  • Impressive privacy features
  • Customer support is super-reliable
Cons
  • Some bugs in doubleVPN feature

For those who 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 5300 servers across 59 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 binge-watcher, this VPN will be the best choice to enjoy uninterrupted streaming.

Still, if you wish to test this VPN first, you can surely do so by availing yourself of their 30-day moneyback guarantee. Don’t like this VPN, have your money back – simple as that!


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 either choose one from the VPNs recommended above or go for any other VPN. Once you decide about a service, create your account there and subscribe to an appropriate pricing plan.


2. Download and install the VPN on your device

After completing the registration process, you can now download the VPN app on your device. You will certainly find a dedicated VPN app for your PC, laptop, smartphone, or any other device.

Once the download completes, 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, better go with them as those servers provide superfast speeds.


4. Sign in to Disney+

Once your VPN connection establishes, 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.

Head on to the Disney+ app, sign in to your account, and start streaming the way you do in the USA.


How to sign-up and unblock US version Disney+ without US payment method

Unblock and Disney Plus abroad while outside USA
(123RF)

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 watch Disney Plus outside US ever?

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 Disney+ app on your device.
  • Sign-up to Disney+ and enter your gift card as your payment option.

Once you have an account, you can now 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 with enough amount 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 now watch Disney Plus on all devices, even when you are 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 making payments via the Play Store or App Store. Here’s how to proceed.

  1. Ensure you have an active VPN connection on your device and a US IP.
  2. Visit any reputable website to get virtual gift cards, such as giftcards.com, to get a virtual credit card functional for US.
  3. Load up your virtual credit card and share it to your email address. You can even fund the card with your existing debit/credit cards.
  4. Activate your virtual card (if not activated already) to use it for making payments.
  5. Now sign up to Disney+ (or login), and enter the virtual credit card details as your payment method.
  6. Complete your subscription process and enjoy streaming your favorite media.

Signing up to Disney+ via PayPal

  1. Create a new PayPal account (while having a US IP). You can put up any US state and zip code in the required details. (You can even enter the state of your VPN server location to look legit.)
  2. Sign up to a US virtual card service, like Revolut and link it with your bank account.
  3. Now link the Revolut virtual card to your newly created PayPal account using the “Link a card or bank” option.
  4. 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 the need to have a US bank account.

After completing the Disney Plus sign-up process, you can now search for your favorite movie or TV show and start streaming anywhere outside the US.


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 there are any device limitations.

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, all you need is to make sure you get a VPN that supports these devices like the VPNs recommended above. After that, you’re free to stream Disney+ outside the US on any device of your choice.

Best shows to watch on Disney+

Wondering what makes this platform so special to make all the effort to unblock it abroad? Then, check out some of the fantastic Disney+ USA shows and movies that you would love to watch.

  • The Simpsons
  • WandaVision
  • Avengers: Endgame
  • Frozen
  • Frozen 2
  • Gravity Falls
  • Mickey Mouse Clubhouse
  • DuckTales
  • Jessie
  • Hamilton
  • Moana
  • Star Wars: The Last Jedi
  • The Mandalorian
  • Toy Story 4
  • Inside Out

Conclusion

This was all about unblocking Disney Plus outside US to enjoy uninterrupted streaming of your favorite movies and shows anywhere.

As you can see, Disney+ is a fantastic platform hosting plenty of content worth watching. It also features a lot of content for your kids as well. Hence, you won’t be wrong in making any effort to access this streaming platform at your place.

If you’re a US citizen with a valid Disney+ account, then you don’t have to worry about missing out on your favorite media while traveling. Just load your device(s) with a robust VPN to continue streaming on the go.

However, if you don’t have an account registered with the service, try one of the methods shared above to sign-up. You’ll surely not regret your subscription.

Just make sure to subscribe to a good VPN, like ExpressVPN, that respects your streaming requirements and rejuvenates your streaming experience.

While it isn’t difficult to subscribe to the VPNs recommended above, do share your queries with us if you face any trouble.

Happy streaming!

FAQs

Well, while it isn’t entirely legal, it’s not illegal either. Although, 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 the use of a VPN, 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 the use of VPNs is legal in your country. Otherwise, you’ll surely be in trouble.

Unfortunately, free VPNs aren’t robust enough to resist VPN detection. Therefore, you won’t stream as smoothly with a free VPN as you do with a paid one. Often, you can’t even connect to Disney+ with a free VPN. Also, free VPNs may pose a threat to your online security. Thus, we never recommend free VPNs to unblock any streaming app.

At 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.

Yes. In India, you can access this streaming platform via the Disney+ Hotstar app. However, the content library you get there may not have your favorite shows. If you want to unblock Disney+ USA library, use a VPN.

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.

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About the Author

Abeerah Hashim

Abeerah Hashim

Associate Editor
135 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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