Does BBC iPlayer work abroad with a VPN? Yes, you need a VPN service like ExpressVPN to watch BBC iPlayer outside UK since it is a UK-based streaming service.
BBC iPlayer is a top streaming service with some of the best content to offer its audiences. The only downside is that it is subjected to strict copyrights and distribution laws.
But with a VPN, you can watch all the latest titles on BBC iPlayer, like Dragons’ Den 2024, The Traitors Series 2, and Six Nations Rugby 2024, without hassle.
Users also ask, how can I watch BBC iPlayer Outside the UK? You can install the BBC iPlayer app on your device and get a reliable BBC iPlayer VPN like ExpressVPN with optimized servers in the UK.
So, without any further delay, we’ll show you how to watch iPlayer abroad with the best VPNs for streaming BBC iPlayer outside UK.
How do I Watch BBC iPlayer Outside UK? [Quick Steps]
You need a VPN to watch BBC iPlayer outside UK and here we have laid out the easy steps for you if you are wondering how can I watch BBC iPlayer outside UK:
- Sign up for a suitable VPN service. We recommend ExpressVPN.
- Download and install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to the fastest UK servers available (Recommended: Docklands).
- Log into BBC iPlayer website and create an account or sign in.
- Now you can enjoy watching iPlayer abroad.
What are the Best VPNs for Streaming BBC iPlayer Outside UK? [Quick Overview]
It’s difficult to bypass BBC iPlayer’s geo-restrictions, so you must test a few premium VPNs to find one that works best. Which VPN is best for BBC iPlayer? We did some tests on the best VPNs available for you, and here are our top picks:
ExpressVPN | Surfshark | NordVPN | |
Website | https://www.expressvpn.com | https://surfshark.com | https://nordvpn.com |
Streaming Services |
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Apps | Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android | iOS, Android, Linux, macOS, Windows | macOS, Windows, Android, Linux, iOS |
Simultaneous Connections | 8 | Unlimited | 6 |
Speed on 100Mbps Network | 92.26Mbps download speed and 89.45Mbps upload speed | 88.48Mbps download speed and 79.42Mbps upload speed | 93.42Mbps download speed and 87.68Mbps upload speed |
Best Price | GB£ 5.28 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free | GB£ 1.97 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee | GB£ 3.16 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo ) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend |
Learn more about these three VPNs in our in-depth analysis section and watch UK TV online outside of UK free.
Why do you need a VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer Outside UK?
Due to licensing constraints, a VPN is essential to access BBC iPlayer in UK. ExpressVPN, with its robust server network, allows you to mask your actual location and enjoy an unrestricted streaming experience.
If you try to access BBC iPlayer outside UK, you will get the below error message:
“BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to rights issues.”
A VPN will change your IP address to a UK one to stream BBC iPlayer outside UK.
Moreover, it will also keep the connection secure and encrypted. For this task, we recommend you opt for ExpressVPN. Simply subscribe to this premium VPN today and enjoy unlimited content available on BBC iPlayer outside UK.
Which VPN is best for BBC iPlayer Outside UK? [In-Depth Analysis]
As we’ve seen, you cannot watch BBC iPlayer without a VPN due to its tough geo-blocks. Users also ask, what is the best free VPN for BBC iPlayer? After an extensive streaming exercise, the following are our three best VPNs for BBC iPlayer:
1. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for BBC iPlayer Outside UK
- Buffer-free streaming with zero disconnections
- 3000+ servers in 105 countries
- MediaStreamer feature
- Eight simultaneous connections
- 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN stands out as the BBC iPlayer VPN Outside UK thanks to its exceptional reliability, advanced technology, and robust security features.
ExpressVPN’s expansive network of over 3000+ servers in 105 countries, including key locations in the United Kingdom like East London, Docklands, and Wembley.
These servers are designed to handle high bandwidth, ensuring you can watch your favourite shows in 4K resolution without buffering issues.
The impressive download speed of 92.26 Mbps and upload speed of 89.45 guarantees a smooth and uninterrupted viewing experience, even when accessing other geo-restricted streaming platforms outside UK.
ExpressVPN offers advanced security features like running its Private DNS on every server to make your connections faster and safer. It also provides the best-in-class encryption with the AES-256 standard and Lightway Protocol.
It has the MediaStreamer feature, which makes it the best VPN to get BBC abroad on older devices like iPad 3.
ExpressVPN for BBC iPlayer has easy-to-use apps for Linux, Mac, Android, Windows, iOS devices, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. It supports eight simultaneous connections, but you can install it on a router to cover all your devices.
This premium VPN is priced at GB£ 5.28 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free with a 30-day money-back guarantee. While it may be on the higher side compared to other VPN services, the quality of service, speed, and security features it offers justify the investment for a seamless and secure streaming experience.
Recommended Servers:
- London
- East London
- Wembley
2. Surfshark – Affordable VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer Outside UK
- 3200+ servers in 100 countries
- Affordable rates of GB£ 1.97 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Decent connection speeds
Surfshark is an affordable VPN to unblock BBC iPlayer outside UK, as you can get it for GB£ 1.97 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
This VPN proves you don’t have to spend much money to access geo-restricted websites. Surfshark has 3200+ servers in 100 countries, with 360 in the United Kingdom.
We connected to a server in London that unblocked BBC iPlayer immediately, allowing us to stream The Responder and the latest episodes of Killing Eve. It has a Smart DNS feature that allows you to unblock these and more streaming services on devices without a VPN app.
The VPN isn’t the fastest on our 100Mbps network, but it delivers fast speeds for an uninterrupted streaming experience. Surfshark records 88.48 Mbps download speed and 79.42 Mbps upload speed.
Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections on a single account, meaning you can install it on all your devices without a VPN. The VPN has Mac, iOS, Windows, Android, and Linux operating systems. The Smart DNS feature allows access to BBC iPlayer on Apple TV, Xbox, PlayStation, Roku, etc.
Onn security, Surfshark secures your data with industry-leading AES-256-GCM encryption and the secure IKEv2/IPsec protocol.
Recommended Servers:
- Manchester
- London
- Glasgow
3. NordVPN – Largest Server VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer Outside UK
- Delivers the fastest connection speeds for streaming BBC iPlayer
- Six simultaneous connections
- 6000+ servers in 61 countries
- NordLynx protocol
- Strict no-logs policy
NordVPN has the most servers for streaming BBC iPlayer outside UK, with 440+ in the United Kingdom. The NordLynx protocol for high connection speeds powers these servers.
NordVPN has 6000+ servers in 61 countries worldwide to meet your streaming needs.
NordVPN offers over 90 Mbps speeds to stream BBC iPlayer outside UK without buffering, making NordVPN the fastest VPN for BBC iPlayer.
The VPN records 93.42 Mbps download speed and 87.68 Mbps upload speed, the fastest speeds from our tests.
Does NordVPN work with BBC iPlayer? It is a highly-compatible VPN and works on your favourite streaming device, like iPlayer. The VPN supports Windows, Linux, iOS, macOS, and Android operating systems.
It has the SmartPlay feature, its version of Smart DNS to work on other devices like gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch), Raspberry Pi, Roku, etc. Also, you can connect six devices simultaneously on a single account.
NordVPN is a security-conscious VPN that secures your connection with a Kill Switch if the connection to the VPN server drops. You also get obfuscated servers to add an extra layer of security to your connection and 256-bit encryption at a price of GB£ 3.16 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo ) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend.
How to Choose the Best VPN for Watching BBC iPlayer Outside UK?
With so many VPN providers claiming to be the best, it can take time to decide which one to get. To help you choose the best VPNs for watching BBC iPlayer outside UK, we’ve listed the main factors to consider while selecting a VPN like ExpressVPN:
- Reliable Server Network: A VPN with a good server network, including reliable servers in the UK, should be considered. We’ve selected VPNs that have reliable servers in the UK.
- Faster Network Connections: Most VPN providers, especially free ones, have outdated protocols and take time to connect to their servers. High-speed VPN must be used with modern protocols.
- Features and Security: Ideally, a VPN with an advanced encryption protocol must be used that ensure maximum online anonymity and security. A VPN should’ve features like AES 256-bit encryption protocols, DNS leak protection, and straightforward privacy policies.
- Don’t keep Logs: A VPN that ensures your browsing history is private and doesn’t keep any logs should be selected.
- Supported Apps for Different Streaming Devices: A VPN with compatible apps on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android should be selected to watch BBC iPlayer on all your favourite streaming devices without any hassle.
- 24/7 Chat Support: We’ve checked that the VPNs have good customer support ratings so that you can resolve your issues quickly and ensure trouble-free streaming.
How to Subscribe to BBC iPlayer Outside UK?[Easy Steps]
The BBC iPlayer is a free streaming platform for live and catch-up TV from all of BBC’s Channels, even BBC One live stream outside UK.
Can I use BBC iPlayer abroad? Yes, you can, but first, you need to register yourself, and here’s how to subscribe to BBC iPlayer outside UK:
- Sign up for a BBC iPlayer VPN like ExpressVPN.
- Log in and connect to a server in the UK. Choose the Docklands server.
- Go to the BBC iPlayer website and select the “Sign In” option.
- A new page will appear; click the “Register Now” option.
- Provide the required personal information and use this postal code, E1 OAA, for East London.
- Enter all your details and finish by clicking the “Register” button. Verify the account by clicking the link sent to your email, and you’re done.
Pro Tip: Also, the best part about this service is you can easily delete BBC iPlayer account anytime and anywhere. However, you can switch your location with a VPN to stream BBC iPlayer shows, films, etc.
Explore the Best of BBC iPlayer in 2024: A Viewer’s Guide
BBC iPlayer is a one-stop shop for all the best UK channels, movies, live sports events, and shows. Here’s a list of Outside UKwhat to watch on BBC iPlayer with a VPN:
What are the Best Shows on BBC iPlayer Outside UK
You can watch BBC iPlayer shows with a VPN like ExpressVPN. If you are wondering, how can I watch BBC iPlayer shows outside UK? Here are some of the top shows on the platform:
What are the Best Movies on BBC iPlayer Outside UK
You’ll have plenty of options to choose from if you like streaming movies, and here are some great BBC iPlayer movies for you:
What are the Best Live Sports available to Stream on BBC iPlayer Outside UK?
Here are some of the live sports events to stream on the BBC iPlayer outside UK with a VPN like ExpressVPN:
The Ashes | Africa Cup of Nations |
World Athletics Championships | MOTD2 |
Under 20 Six Nations Championship | Six Nations Round 1 |
United Rugby Championship Round 11 |
What’s New on BBC iPlayer in March 2024?
Here’s a list of the latest releases for you to explore on BBC iPlayer in March 2024:
What Devices Are Compatible With BBC iPlayer Outside UK?
Many devices are compatible with BBC iPlayer. Users often ask, on which devices can I watch BBC iPlayer? You can watch BBC iPlayer outside UK free with a VPN like ExpressVPN on various devices as follows:
Apple TV | Chromecast |
Roku | iPhone/iPads |
Firestick | Windows |
Android devices | PS4/PS5 |
Smart TV | Xbox 360 and Xbox One |
How to Download and Watch BBC iPlayer on Devices Outside UK?
After connecting to a UK server, you can stream BBC iPlayer from the app or directly from the website. Here’s how to download the BBC iPlayer app outside UK in any country on multiple devices:
PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 | Apple TV | Windows devices (Computer or Laptop) |
Chromecast | iOS (Mac devices, iPhone, iPad) | Smart TV |
Sky TV | Xbox One, Xbox 360 | Android (phone or tablet) |
Roku | Firestick | LG TV |
How do I download BBC iPlayer Outside UK on iOS?
Here’s how to download BBC iPlayer app outside UK in any country on an iOS device:
- Launch the ExpressVPN app and connect to a server in the UK (Recommended: Docklands).
- Go to Settings of your iOS device and click on your profile.
- Select Media and Purchases > Country/Region >, change to the UK, and Agree to the Terms and Conditions.
- Enter the requested information and provide any valid UK address.
- Go to the App Store to download the BBC iPlayer app.
- Log in and enjoy your BBC iPlayer iPhone experience from outside the UK.
How can I Watch BBC iPlayer Outside UK on my Android?
Planning to watch BBC iPlayer live on Android? Follow the easy steps below:
- Sign in to the Google Play Store on an Android device with two or more Gmail accounts.
- Launch ExpressVPN and connect to a UK server (Recommended: Docklands).
- Go to Play Store and search for the BBC iPlayer app. You’ll notice the app won’t show up, so switch to a different account without closing Play Store.
- Search for the BBC iPlayer app again. Download and install it.
- Log in and start streaming.
How do I download BBC iPlayer Outside UK on a Computer or Laptop?
You don’t have to install the BBC iPlayer app outside UK on a Windows or Mac laptop or computer. Log in to the site via a browser as follows:
- Fire up ExpressVPN and connect to a UK server (Recommended: Docklands).
- Go to bbc.co.uk.
- Log in with your username and password.
- Search for your favourite show, film, or documentary on BBC iPlayer and start streaming.
How do I Watch BBC iPlayer Outside UK on Roku?
BBC iPlayer is present on the Roku Channel Store, but you can only access it with a British-origin account. Here’s how to install BBC iPlayer outside UK on Roku:
- Reset your Roku device.
- Install a VPN like ExpressVPN on your Wi-Fi router and connect to a UK server (Recommended: Docklands).
- Connect your Roku device to your smart TV and sign up for a UK account.
- Go to the Roku Channel Store to get the BBC iPlayer app.
- Launch the app, sign in, and enjoy your BBC iPlayer Roku streaming experience outside the UK.
How do I download BBC iPlayer Outside UK on Firestick?
Below are the steps to watch BBC iPlayer on Firestick. Users also want to know, Is BBC iPlayer available on Firestick? Yes, it is available on the Amazon store from there, you can download it on Firestick.
- Go to the Developer Options under Firestick Settings to allow installation from unknown sources.
- Install the Downloader app on your Firestick.
- Launch the BBC iPlayer app and use it to install the ExpressVPN app.
- Open ExpressVPN and connect to a server in the UK (Recommended: Docklands).
- Restart the Amazon Fire Stick to apply the changes.
- Install the BBC iPlayer app, sign in, and stream BBC iPlayer outside UK on Firestick.
How to Get BBC iPlayer Outside UK on Apple TV?
BBC iPlayer Apple TV outside UK, and here are the steps to follow:
- Connect the Apple TV device to your TV.
- Go to Settings, General, then Region.
- Switch to the UK and provide the requested information.
- After changing locations, go to the App Store and download the BBC iPlayer app.
- Install the app.
- Set up ExpressVPN to your home router and connect to a UK server (Recommended: Docklands).
- Sign in to BBC iPlayer on Apple TV and stream your favourites.
Follow our detailed guide about BBC iPlayer on Apple TV for more information.
How to Get BBC iPlayer outside UK on a Smart TV?
BBC iPlayer works on a smart TV, and here’s how to download the app outside the UK:
- Change your smart TV region to the United Kingdom.
- Configure ExpressVPN to your router on the same Wi-Fi.
- Get the BBC iPlayer app.
- Fire up the BBC iPlayer app and add it you’re your favourite channels list.
- Launch it and log in.
- Stream your BBC iPlayer favourites outside the UK on a smart TV
What Channels are available to Stream on BBC iPlayer Outside UK?
Here are the channels available on BBC iPlayer to stream outside the UK:
BBC One | BBC Two |
BBC Three | BBC Four |
CBeebies | CBBC |
BBC News | BBC Parliament |
BBC Alba | S4C |
BBC Scotland | Radio1 |
How to fix BBC iPlayer Not Working Outside UK With A VPN?
BBC iPlayer works outside the UK with a VPN, but you might experience some issues while streaming. Try these fixes to get rid of all “BBC iPlayer not working” errors:
- BBC iPlayer has blacklisted the servers used by your VPN provider – switch to ExpressVPN to get the best unblocking capability.
- BBC iPlayer identifying your location – clear your browser cookies to eliminate any information showing your location.
- If your GPS location and IP address don’t match – use a VPN with secure protocols and enhanced encryption.
- BBC iPlayer has updated its geo-blocking system- switch to a regularly updated VPN provider.
- The IP address is leaking – sign up for a VPN that covers the entire traffic of your device.
If the above steps don’t work for you, then you can check our in-depth guide about various methods to fix BBC iPlayer not working issues outside UK.
Can I Use a Free VPN to Stream BBC iPlayer Outside UK?
Yes, you can use a free VPN to stream BBC iPlayer outside UK like Windscribe and Tunnelbear as they can easily unblock BBC iPlayer for you outside UK.
However, some are unsafe and slow and offer a poor streaming experience. Streaming requires much bandwidth, and the free VPN servers are filled to the brim, leading to excruciating slow connections.
Free VPNs profit from their users by tracking, recording, and selling their online data. If price is a concern, you can simply leverage the 30-day money-back guarantee that comes with ExpressVPN to watch BBC online outside UK free.
FAQs
Is BBC iPlayer free to stream outside UK?
Is it legal to stream BBC iPlayer with a VPN outside UK?
Can I watch BBC iPlayer outside UK free without VPN?
I just pressed yes on BBC iPlayer outside UK when it asked if I have a license. Is there a problem with it?
Can I play BBC iPlayer downloaded outside UK?
How to watch BBC iPlayer outside UK on a non-Smart TV?
Can I use BBC iPlayer on Nvidia Shield outside UK?
Wrapping It Up!
Now you know how to watch BBC iPlayer outside UK with a VPN. BBC iPlayer is an incredible streaming service and is a favourite for many UK residents, but it is geo-restricted.
We hope now you have the answers to all your queries. Subscribe to ExpressVPN, our recommended VPN, for the best BBC iPlayer streaming experience outside UK in any country.