How to get a Canadian IP address from anywhere

At a Glance

Whether you’re a Canadian expat or simply traveling outside of the country on vacation, chances are you can benefit from using a Canadian IP address. By spoofing your location, you’ll be able to access geo-restricted Canadian sites, including streaming services like Netflix Canada, TSN Direct, and CTV as well as other restricted sites such as online banking services.

Every device connected to the internet has a unique IP address, which identifies it and identifies your geographic location. Many services geo-restrict their content and enforce those restrictions using IP address detection. This means you may not be able to access your usual services while abroad.

How Can a VPN Help?

Thankfully, a VPN can provide you with a Canadian IP address (and make it appear that you’re in Canada) from anywhere in the world. So no matter where you are, you can access content from streaming sites like DAZN, Rogers NFL Live, and Sportsnet Now, as well as log in to other services such as online banking with CIBC, RBC, or TD.

How Do I get a Canadian IP Address From Abroad?

Follow these steps to get your internet freedom back and continue to use all the services you can get in Canada.

How to get a Canadian IP address:

1. Choose a VPN (I recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the appropriate VPN app for your device.
3. Connect to one of the VPN’s Canadian servers.
4. Surf to a Canadian-restricted site, such as the CBC, and you should be able to view content with no issues.

Best VPNs for a Canadian IP address

After testing numerous VPNs, the following VPNs proved to be the top VPNs for grabbing a Canadian IP address.

Best VPNs for a Canadian IP address:

1. NordVPN: Best VPN to reliably grab Canadian IP addresses. NordVPN provides reliable access to Canadian IP addresses, delivering fast, well-protected connections to geo-controlled content. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: For unlimited Canadian connections on a budget. The provider offers features unlimited anonymous connections to Canadian content, eh?
3. ExpressVPN: Premium option for grabbing Canadian IP addresses. This admittedly expensive VPN provides comprehensive online security and privacy for users that are willing to pay a bit more for a premium VPN.
4. CyberGhost: Rookie VPN users will appreciate the provider’s ease of use. The provider’s selection of easy-to-use apps provides one-click access to streaming- and downloading-optimized servers.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA): Well-respected VPN provider. PIA has been around for a while and provides fast and well-protected access to Canadian IP addresses.
6. PrivateVPN: Small but powerful server network. This provider does a top-notch job of protecting users of the big four device platforms.

How to choose the right VPN for a Canadian IP address

When composing a list of the best services to get a Canadian IP address from abroad, there were a number of attributes that we looked for. The top VPNs must have:

• Multiple servers in Canada
• A self-installing, easy-to-use app
• Solid customer support
• High speeds
• Cloaking technology

You can find out more information about the criteria I used in the testing methodology section found further down this article.

PRO TIP: A bonus of using a VPN is that it encrypts all of the traffic running to and from your device, protecting your information from hackers and other snoopers.

Best VPN to get a Canadian IP address – Summary table

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for getting a Canadian IP.

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Here is our list of the best VPNs to get a Canadian IP address:

1. NordVPN

Apr 2024

NordVPN is my top overall VPN to use to get a Canadian IP address. The app is easy to navigate and includes handy features like the option to select a server from a map instead of a dropdown list. You get access to more than 5,600 servers in 59+ countries, including 480+ servers in three cities in Canada (Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver). This service is excellent at enabling access to video streaming services and evading detection.

The provider delivered some of the fastest connection speeds available from any VPN in our most recent testing, and it offers these fast speeds at a low price.

Security measures include government-grade 256-bit AES encryption and a 2048-bit key RSA cipher. The app includes a kill switch and web addresses are referenced through a private DNS service. There are also options for double-hop VPN (where your traffic goes through two VPN servers) and Tor over VPN.

An extra security feature is CyberSec, which will block infected web pages from loading in your browser, strip adverts from the pages you visit, and block popups. NordVPN does not keep any activity logs, so the anonymity of all customers is protected.

NordVPN is not only moving to an owned and operated server network, keeping third-party contractors away from your personal information, but it also runs all of those servers 100% from RAM. This means all data is completely wiped when a NordVPN server reboots or is shut down, as no data is ever written to a physical hard drive.

Apps are available for Windows, macOS (with native M1/M2 Mac support), Linux, iOS, Android, and Android TV. Browser extensions are available to protect Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser sessions. You can install the VPN manually on Raspberry Pi and on select routers. NordVPN allows six devices to be connected simultaneously.

The provider offers a “Complete” level of service (for an additional fee) that offers tracker and ad blocking, a password manager, dark web monitoring, malware protection, and more.

NordVPN’s customer support options include 24/7 live chat, email support, and a searchable knowledge base.

BEST VPN FOR CANADIAN IP ADDRESS:With excellent unblocking capabilities and an array of security features, NordVPN gives plenty of bang for your buck. A risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee sweetens the deal.

Read my full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark excels with its fast speeds, unlimited simultaneous connections allowance, and plenty of Canadian IP addresses, all offered at a low price.

This provider boasts 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries, including Canada (where it has 90+ servers in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal). The provider claims it offers access to more than 30 Netflix libraries around the globe, Canada included.

Surfshark offers easy-to-install and easy-to-use native apps for iOS, Android, Android TV, Linux, Windows, macOS (boasting M1/M2 Mac support), and Amazon Fire TV device platforms. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are available to protect your browser sessions, and the provider offers excellent compatibility with numerous router makes and models.

Surfshark has an unlimited concurrent connections policy, meaning you can make it appear as if every connected device is connecting from Canada at the same time. Nice, eh?

Customer support is an always-available feature here and includes 24/7 chat, a searchable support library, an FAQ section, and a support form.

The provider’s download speeds can easily handle streaming high-definition video, playing fast-moving online games, and sharing and downloading large files. No daily or monthly bandwidth restrictions spoil your online recreation.

Surfshark protects its users’ connections with banking-grade 256-bit AES encryption and kill switch protection. The provider also offers the ability to block ads, trackers, and malware, and offers phishing protection. A “Camouflage Mode” keeps your VPN activity hidden, and a “MultiHop” feature uses two VPN servers to offer added anonymity and protection.

Surfshark never saves any logs on its servers and accepts cryptocurrency as payment for its services.

For an extra $1.49 per month, Surfshark offers additional protective services, including antivirus, truly private search, and data breach alerts.

Surfshark’s available support options include 24/7 chat, a searchable support library, an FAQ section, and a support request form.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is an alluring VPN option for users who are looking for online security and privacy for small businesses or large families. The provider offers excellent online anonymity, fast connections, and comprehensive app support, all for a low price. Surfshark also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read my full review of Surfshark.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is one of the best VPN services out there if you are happy to spend a little more. It’s simple to set up and very easy to use. If you run into problems, a competent support team is available on live chat, 24/7. The company has 3,000+ servers in 94+ countries, including Canada where it has servers in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver.

ExpressVPN is great at getting around VPN detection systems and regional restrictions and can provide access to Netflix Canada, TSN, and many other Canadian sites. Plus, its servers are optimized for speed, making the service ideal for streaming video.

You get great security with ExpressVPN. The company is based in the British Virgin Islands and it doesn’t keep logs of customer activities. You can be sure that your software doesn’t connect to the internet without VPN protection by enabling a kill switch in the app. The service also includes a private DNS service and all communications are protected by government-grade 256-bit AES encryption. Session establishment is protected by 4096-bit RSA public-key encryption.

All ExpressVPN servers are operated using a proprietary “TrustedServer” technology, running all server operations 100% from RAM. Since no data is ever saved to a physical hard drive, all data is securely wiped when a server is rebooted.

ExpressVPN plans include apps for Windows, macOS (with native support for Apple Silicon), Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, Chromebook, and Amazon Fire. Plus, browser extensions are available for the Chrome, Edge, and Firefox platforms.

The service also works with select routers. ExpressVPN recently improved its router features for added security and improved performance. It also now offers its own in-house “Aircove” router, which is ready to protect you right out of the box.

You can connect five devices to the service simultaneously. However, If you use the provider with your router, that counts as only one connection, even though it covers all of the devices in your home.

ExpressVPN’s customer support offers various options, including 24/7 live chat, email support, a trouble ticket submission system, and a searchable support library.

RELIABLE CANADIAN IP ADDRESSES:ExpressVPN provides a high-speed, reliable connection ideal for streaming and other everyday tasks. Best-in-class above-average security features and ease of use secure its position as a firm favorite. You can try this service with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read my full review of ExpressVPN.

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4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost offers a beginner-friendly app and lightning-fast speeds, great for channeling video streams through the VPN.

The service gives you access to more than 9,000+ servers in 90+ countries and there are 480+ servers in three cities in Canada (Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver).

CyberGhost implements very strong security. Session establishment is protected by 4096-bit RSA public key encryption and connections are protected by a government-grade 256-bit key AES cipher. The app includes a kill switch to prevent software on your device from connecting to the internet without the VPN being active. The company doesn’t keep any activity logs and doesn’t hold any subscriber details on its servers.

Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, and Amazon Fire Stick. The VPN can be installed manually on Linux devices and select routers. Browser extensions are available for the Chrome and Firefox platforms. Seven simultaneous connections are allowed on each plan.

In addition to reliable Canadian IP addresses, the VPN provider also offers a service to warn you when your email address is included in a data breach, a password manager, and plenty of extras for Windows users, including antivirus and anti-malware protection, controls how much information Microsoft can collect about your Windows usage and more.

24/7 live chat, email support, a support ticket system, and a knowledge base all make up CyberGhost’s customer support options.

BEGINNER-FRIENDLY:Simple setup and an easy-to-use interface, along with great streaming abilities, make this an ideal choice, especially for beginners. Most plans come with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read my full CyberGhost review.

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5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) provides reliable access to IP addresses from inside of Canadian borders.

With 3,300+ servers spread among more than 80 countries, including Canada (with servers in Ontario, Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal), PIA delivers reliable access to geo-fenced content from inside Canadian borders, as well as to most of the rest of the world.

The provider’s connection protection makes use of government-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak, and kill switch protection. PIA can also block ads, trackers, malware, and malicious websites.

PIA VPN servers never save any server logs, so there are never any records of your online activities. Customers can pay for their subscription with cryptocurrency, meaning it’s easy to keep your payment information private when you use a disposable email address.

PIA’s download speeds are certainly not the fastest on this list. However, its connections provide more than enough bandwidth for popular online activities. No data cap or connection throttling to worry about with PIA.

The provider offers excellent native app support, with offerings for Android, Android TV, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux device platforms. Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browser extensions, as well as router support are also available.

Up to 10 devices can be simultaneously connected to PIA’s servers by a single user.

Support offerings by the provider include live chat, a trouble ticket form, and a searchable support library.

RELIABLE CANADIAN IP ADDRESSES:Private Internet Access connections offer comprehensive online security and privacy. Its fast connections provide reliable access to geo-controlled content in Canada, as well as numerous other locations around the globe. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Private Internet Access.

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6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN offers fast connection speeds and top-notch security protections.

The provider’s global server network comes up a bit short when compared to other VPNs on this list, as it has a mere 200+ servers spread sparsely among 60+ countries. However, PrivateVPN does have servers stationed in three Canadian cities (Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver).

All Private VPN connections are protected with industry-standard protections, including military-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak prevention, and more. Plus, the provider keeps no logs on its servers, A Bitcoin payment option can be used with a disposable email address to keep your payment privacy undercover.

The provider’s connection speeds, while certainly not the fastest in the industry, are more than able to handle gaming, streaming, or any other online activity you may enjoy.

The provider never saves any logs on their servers, meaning your online activities stay undercover. PrivateVPN also accepts Bitcoin for subscription payments, keeping your privacy intact.

Native app support includes options for iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS platforms. No browser extensions are offered, and the provider’s router support requires manual adjustment of your router’s settings.

The provider’s support options include online chat, contact us form, and a non-searchable FAQ page.

FLEXIBLE VPN PROTECTION:PrivateVPN users can connect up to 10 devices at once, while enjoying fast connections and comprehensive online security and privacy. Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read my full review of PrivateVPN.

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Methodology for Assessing VPNs for a Canadian IP Address

A VPN service provider must offer servers in Canada in order for you to get a Canadian IP address from it. However, there are other important factors to consider as well, which is why you can’t choose just any provider to get what you need.

These are the most critical aspects of VPNs to be on the lookout for, and which I ensured each VPN provider I recommended offers:

• Speed: Always look for fast speeds from a provider. Otherwise, you may be stuck waiting a long time for things to load, especially streaming video. All of the VPN service providers on my list scored excellently during my most recent connection speed tests.
• Server network: A large server network means that you’ll have access to more countries than just Canada. In addition, a high server count ensures that your speeds will be faster, as no individual server will be overloaded with users trying to connect.
• Value: You’re going to want a VPN that offers enough features and functionality to justify its price. You don’t want to pay an inordinate sum for a VPN that doesn’t even offer what you need, let alone what you want. Each VPN on my list offers its services for a reasonable price, given what they offer.
• Ease of use: All of the VPNs on my list offer easy-to-use apps, which make it simple to quickly connect to your favorite online activities. In addition, they offer apps for a wide array of platforms, allowing you to connect on your preferred devices as well.
• Security and privacy: You’re always in danger when you’re using the internet, especially from hackers. That makes security and privacy protections an important consideration. A VPN should offer, at least, banking-level encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection to protect you while you’re surfing the web. A strict no-logs policy also protects your digital privacy, keeping anyone from having any idea what you’re up to.
• Streaming: Most VPN users are fans of streaming, so it’s important for any VPN you consider to offer the ability to access and stream your favorite video streaming services. Each VPN on my list offers reliable access to streaming services such as Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

Our VPN research doesn’t end here. The factors above are just a small part of our overall VPN testing methodology. Our data-driven approach aids us in better understanding the services, so we can recommend only those VPNs that are a good fit for your needs. For more information, read our VPN testing methodology information.

Can I Get a Canadian IP Address From Abroad for Free?

On your hunt for the right VPN provider, you’ll likely encounter lots of free options. However, you should be cautious of these offers. Many of these free services have been exposed for including no encryption and therefore offer no protection.

It costs a lot of money to set up and run a quality VPN service, so free services often have hidden income streams. Some of them track your activity and sell the information to third parties. Other free services make money through advertisements or by making users watch promotional videos.

Free VPNs are usually slow and have service restrictions on the amount of data throughput that they will allow each month. They offer a limited number of server locations, so it’s unlikely you’ll be able to get a Canadian IP address at all. Even if you do, hordes of users vying for space on a small number of servers will lead to long wait times and unreliable connections.

Overall, it just makes sense to opt for a reputable paid provider.

Why Do I Need a VPN if I’m Located in Canada?

But wait, if you’re inside of Canadian borders you already have access to Canadian online content. So, why do you need a VPN?

First of all, a VPN can provide an IP address from other countries around the world, literally opening up a world of content for your enjoyment.

More importantly, a VPN protects your security and privacy by keeping your online activities incognito. This is especially important in Canada for two reasons.

The 2015 Anti-terrorism Act (Bill C-51) requires Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to log the browsing activity of every Canadian internet user. Plus, Canada is a member of the Five Eyes group, meaning the data collected because of this bill can be shared with intelligence agencies in the US, UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

Accessing Canadian TV and Websites

Some sites that you visit from outside of Canada will block you; others will give you the “international” version, so you won’t be able to read the same content that you could have got when you were in Canada. The range of sites that don’t want to grant you access from outside of the country is astonishing. This phenomenon is particularly prevalent among video streaming sites.

You won’t be able to get into those online sports channels that you subscribe to when you are outside of Canada. You won’t be able to get into DAZN even if you are in another country that the service is streamed for. This is because such multinational streaming services restrict your access to the country that you subscribed to. You will also be locked out from SN Now, CraveTV, Amazon Prime, Rogers NFL Live, Sportsnet Now, MLB.TV, TSN Direct, Qello, and Britbox.

You will be able to get into Netflix when you are outside of Canada, but you will be given the video library for the country that you are in.

You can get around all of these problems by making all of your internet connections carry a Canadian return address no matter where you really are.

Get a Canadian IP address with a VPN

There are hundreds of VPNs on the market and it would take you a very long time to research all of them. It isn’t advisable to just sign up for the first service that appears on a search engine’s results page. You could be paying out for a VPN that isn’t any good. Fortunately, we have examined the market and come up with the best VPNs for accessing Canadian web services.

Getting around the access restrictions that a lot of Canadian websites use is easy. Install a VPN and obtain an IP address that makes it look like you are in Canada, even when you are abroad. Take advantage of the refund periods of the VPNs in our list to try out each service and pick one that works for you.

Canadian IP Address VPN FAQs