watch Canadian TV abroad VPN

It can be difficult to watch your favorite Canadian shows while you’re away. While overseas, you’ll find that you can’t access CBC, CTV, Global TV, Crave, TVA, TSN, and other Canadian TV channels. However, with a VPN, you can make this possible by connecting to a Canadian VPN server.

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) route your network traffic through a secure third-party server. This allows users to access geographically restricted content. In addition, users will protect their connection from the prying eyes of ISPs and governments. VPNs can even offer protection from hackers, encrypting your connection.

How to watch Canadian TV from abroad

Fortunately, it’s easy to watch Canadian TV while you’re traveling or working overseas. Here’s how you can get set up with a VPN, so you can start watching Canadian TV from abroad with minimal fuss.

4 steps to watch Canadian TV worldwide:

  1. First, you will need to subscribe to a top-tier VPN service. I recommend NordVPN, thanks to its vast server network (including servers in Canada), fast speeds, and ability to unblock all streaming platforms. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Download and install the VPN app onto the device you want to watch Canadian TV on.
  3. Log in to your VPN app and connect to a Canadian server.
  4. Now that you’re connected, you should be able to watch your favorite Canadian TV shows, movies, and live sports.

If you encounter any issues, try clearing your cache and cookies. If you still run into any issues, you can contact your VPN’s customer support team.

Are you keen to find out about all of our recommended VPN providers? If you want to watch Canadian TV while you’re abroad, I have reviewed the best VPNs that facilitate this in detail below. However, if you’re in a rush, here’s a quick summary.

The best VPNs for watching Canadian TV abroad:

  1. NordVPN: My number one choice for accessing Canadian TV abroad. There are more than 480 servers in Canada and 7,400+ around the world. Fast speeds and strong security measures are available. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Surfshark: A great budget option for those looking to watch Canadian TV overseas. It has over 3,200 servers globally (including several in Canada). This service is very fast and can unblock many different Canadian online TV channels with ease.
  3. IPVanish: Great option when it comes to streaming – it has long been trusted by the Kodi community thanks to its streaming prowess. Has servers in Canada and offers an unlimited number of connections at once.
  4. ExpressVPN: Offers very fast streaming speeds and is a great option for those looking to unblock streaming services from Canada.
  5. CyberGhost VPN: Gives users lots of different server options thanks to its more than 11,500 servers. In addition, it has servers that are optimized for different purposes, such as streaming and gaming.
  6. PrivateVPN: This is a privacy-centric option that offers an excellent array of advanced security features. Includes a strict no-logs policy.
  7. Private Internet Access: A lightweight, easy-to-use service that has 35,000+ servers globally and strong security measures in place.

While searching for the best VPNs for Canadian TV, I used a strict set of criteria to determine which VPNs to include in my list. I cover this set of criteria in detail in the methodology section below, but here’s a summary:

  • Capable of unblocking Canadian services such as CBC, TVA, and Sportsnet
  • A large server network worldwide that includes speedy Canadian servers
  • Strong security measures that keep your online activities private
  • Good cross-platform support
  • Easy to use and simple to set up
  • Excellent value for money

Best VPNs for Canadian TV

With that being said, here are the best VPNs for watching Canadian TV abroad:

1. NordVPN

nordvpn homepage

NordVPN offers over 7,400 high-speed servers across 118 countries, including 480+ in Canada. This makes it incredibly easy to connect to a Canadian server, no matter where you’re located in the world. Plus, it’s excellent at bypassing geographical restrictions and unblocking leading streaming platforms, which is ideal for Canadian TV fans.

In addition, many different security measures are offered by this service. There is strong 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic ad-blocker, a malware scanner, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. Plus, NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy.

NordVPN is supported on many different platforms and can be downloaded for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. There is also support for routers, and you can connect 10 devices simultaneously with one subscription. A live chat service is available 24/7, so somebody is always on hand should you have any issues.

Pros:

  • Large global server network with 480+ Canadian servers
  • Fast connection speeds
  • Strong security measures
  • No logs are stored
  • Apps available for several different platforms

Cons:

  • The desktop app can be slow at times

BEST VPN FOR WATCHING CANADIAN TV ABROAD:NordVPN is a great option for watching Canadian TV abroad. It is fast and has plenty of servers in Canada and globally. This VPN is very secure and supports many different platforms. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. Surfshark

surfshark

Surfshark is a great provider when it comes to affordability, offering the best value for money while not skimping on quality. In total, there are over 3,200 servers spread across 100+ countries, including 120+ in Canada. This means it’s great for users looking to access Canadian TV abroad. Plus, it boasts exceptionally fast streaming speeds.

Surfshark offers 256-bit AES encryption, protection against DNS leaks, a kill switch, and other advanced security features. There is also a traffic scrambling option included, which ensures your ISP won’t be able to see if you’re using a VPN. Surfshark also doesn’t store logs and accepts cryptocurrency payments – a more anonymous way of accepting payments.

Apps are available for many different platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. This service can be installed on routers that support it. Surfshark offers an unlimited number of simultaneous connections, and the customer service team is available 24/7 via live chat.

Pros:

  • Provides access to Canadian TV without issues
  • Fast connection speeds
  • Strong security measures
  • Unlimited number of simultaneous connections
  • Cryptocurrency payments accepted

Cons:

  •  Some servers are slightly slow

BEST BUDGET VPN FOR CANADIAN TV:Surfshark offers low prices considering its excellent performance. Reliably unblock all major streaming platforms, enjoy fast speeds, and rest easy knowing you’re well protected with advanced security features. 30-day money-back guarantee.

3. IPVanish

ipvanish homepage

IPVanish is an excellent streaming VPN. It offers very fast streaming speeds and has been trusted by the Kodi community for years. It has 2,400+ servers across 140+ locations globally, with servers in three different Canadian locations: Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver. Thanks to its Canadian servers, IPVanish is an excellent choice for watching Canadian TV such as Global TV and RDS abroad.

There are also several security measures in place, including 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. IPVanish also offers a traffic scrambling option and doesn’t store any logs.

There are apps offered for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. There is also an option to install this VPN on some routers and Linux. IPVanish offers an unlimited number of simultaneous connections, and the customer support team is available 24/7.

Pros:

  • Fast connection speeds with servers in Canada
  • Unlimited number of connections at once
  • No logs are stored
  • Great option for Kodi users and torrenters

Cons:

  • Apps don’t work in China
  • Some servers don’t work with Netflix

FAST STREAMING VPN FOR CANADIAN TV:IPVanish is a secure platform that offers fast streaming speeds and servers in several different Canadian cities. Users can make the most of an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. 30-day money-back guarantee offered.

4. ExpressVPN

expressvpn homepage

ExpressVPN is an excellent VPN for users who stream a lot. It has 3,000+ very fast servers in more than 105 countries globally. This includes multiple server locations in Canada, allowing users to unblock major Canadian TV services such as Crave and Global TV.

Strong security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. Plus, there is a .onion site, which allows users to access the service via the TOR network. On top of this, there is support for cryptocurrency payments and this service stores no logs.

There is also support for several different platforms. There are apps available for iOS, Windows, Android, Linux, and macOS, and it can be installed on supported routers. The customer support team is available 24/7 via live chat and eight simultaneous connections are supported.

Pros:

  • Fast connection speeds
  • Can unblock Canadian TV services with ease
  • .onion site available along with crypto payments for anonymity
  • Strong security measures

Cons:

  • This service is more expensive than some other providers
  • Lack of customizability can be frustrating for advanced users

GREAT UNBLOCKING ABILITY:ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs on the market for accessing geo-blocked services. This is music to the ears of Canadian TV viewers, who will be able to catch up with their favorite shows with ease. 30-day money-back guarantee.

5. CyberGhost VPN

cyberghost homepage

CyberGhost VPN has a very large number of servers globally, with more than 11,500 in 100+ countries (including servers in three Canadian locations). This provider also has specialized servers for activities such as streaming, gaming, and torrenting. One of the most effective at unblocking Canadian TV in this list.

Strong security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, split tunneling, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. It accepts cryptocurrency payments and has a strict no-logs policy in place.

CyberGhost apps can be downloaded for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Some routers can be manually configured to work with this service as well. The customer support team is available 24/7 and seven simultaneous connections are available.

Pros:

  • Apps are easy to use
  • 24/7 live chat service
  • Huge server network
  • Strong security and privacy measures

Cons:

  • Blocked in the UAE and China
  • Torrenting and P2P not supported on all servers

LARGE SERVER NETWORK:CyberGhost has a network of more than 11,500 servers. This includes servers in three Canadian locations that allow users to get an IP address in Canada. Includes a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

6. PrivateVPN

privatevpn homepage

PrivateVPN is a smaller, privacy-focused VPN provider, but it has lots of resources available to users who wish to access Canadian TV services. In total, PrivateVPN has over 200 servers spread across 63+ countries (including Canada).

The provider has strong security measures, such as 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection from IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leaks. In addition, PrivateVPN stores no logs and accepts cryptocurrency payments.

PrivateVPN has apps available for multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It should be noted that customer service agents can only be reached during regular business hours (Swedish time). With that being said, the quality of customer support is very high. 10 devices can be connected simultaneously using a single subscription.

Pros:

  • Reliable for streaming
  • Privacy and security features are excellent
  • Operates from Sweden, which is outside of the Five Eyes

Cons:

  • Fewer servers to choose from
  • Works with Linux but requires manual configuration

PRIVACY-FOCUSED VPN:PrivateVPN is a good choice for VPN users who prioritize security and privacy above all else. While its server network is small, it will still cater to all your streaming needs as a Canadian traveling abroad. 30-day money-back guarantee.

7. Private Internet Access

pia homepage

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a great, lightweight option for users who are looking to bypass geographical restrictions on Canadian TV streaming services online. Globally, this service has a massive 35,000+ servers in 91+ countries. In Canada, servers are available in Toronto, Ontario, Vancouver, and Montreal.

Strong security is offered by PIA, including 256-bit AES encryption and a kill switch. In addition, split tunneling is offered in case users need to allow some of their internet traffic to pass through their VPN. No logs are stored by PIA.

There are apps available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. PIA’s customer service is available 24/7 via the provided live chat, and you can connect an unlimited number of devices at the same time. PIA also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros:

  • Access to many different Canadian TV services
  • Fast and secure WireGuard protocol
  • Several customization options are available

Cons:

  • Doesn’t work reliably in China
  • App design is lacking in some ways

LIGHTWEIGHT AND EFFICIENT VPN:PIA is a lightweight provider that is fast and efficient. It supports an unlimited number of connections, offers excellent security features, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Testing methodology: How I chose the best VPNs for watching Canadian TV abroad

Many different VPN services are available for purchase, and almost all of them will claim they’re excellent picks for Canadians traveling overseas.

However, not all of them are created equally. I reviewed many different VPN options to arrive at the final list of best Canadian TV VPNs above.

  • Unblocking capability: The VPNs reviewed here are capable of unblocking the best streaming services out there, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. This includes Canadian services such as CBC, TVA, and Sportsnet. This means you’ll never miss out on your favorite TV shows, movies, and live sports while abroad.
  • Strong server network: All of the VPNs reviewed here have large server networks that include servers in Canada. This ensures users have as much choice as possible, whether they need an IP address in Canada or anywhere else in the world.
  • Strong security measures: These VPNs all have strong security measures in place, such as 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, and kill switches. These measures protect users in different scenarios, such as on open WiFi networks. This is ideal when you’re using public WiFi in hotels, airports, or cafes.
  • Great cross-platform support: The VPNs here have apps available for many different platforms, such as Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. They also offer a generous limit on the number of devices you can connect at once.
  • Ease of use: Apps must be easy to use, whether you’re a VPN beginner or an expert. All of these VPNs are simple to set up and navigate. Plus, they offer good customer support services should anything go wrong.
  • Value for money: VPNs must cater to users of all budgets. The VPNs for Canadian TV I have listed here all provide money-back guarantees and discounted subscription rates.

For more information about my testing methodology, check out my full VPN testing process guide.

How to watch Canadian TV abroad FAQs

Which Canadian TV services can I use with a VPN?

If you live in Canada, there are several different channels that you might miss while away on vacation.

Regardless of where you are in the world, you should be able to bypass any geographical restrictions on Canadian TV channels/streaming services using a reputable VPN. This includes:

  • CTV
  • CityTV
  • Space
  • Sportsnet
  • CHCH
  • CCP24
  • TVA
  • CBC
  • CBC Gem
  • Crave
  • Global TV
  • TSN

What are the benefits of using a VPN service with a Canadian streaming service?

There are several benefits of using a VPN with a Canadian streaming service. Using a VPN allows you to:

  • Access geographically restricted content
  • Secure your connection (especially on open WiFi networks)
  • Keep your private information from the prying eyes of governments and ISPs.

Are VPNs legal in Canada?

Yes, VPNs are legal in Canada. In fact, VPNs are legal in most parts of the world. This is because VPNs have a legitimate purpose. Without VPNs, remote workers would struggle to get access to their company networks, among other things.

In addition, activists and journalists would also have issues accessing information and communicating in countries with repressive regimes.

Note: VPNs don’t exempt you from consequences if you commit a crime. Don’t take anything in this article as legal advice.

Can I stream Canadian TV for free?

Yes, if you have a Canadian cable TV subscription, you can log into your provider’s portal and watch your subscription online and at no added cost.

Will a VPN slow down my connection?

Yes, all VPNs slow down your connection slightly. However, with a top-tier VPN subscription, you will have a negligible slowdown. With that being said, there are a few factors to consider when thinking about your VPN slowing down your connection. These include:

  • The distance between your location and the location of the VPN server
  • The load on the server
  • The encryption and protocol used by the VPN.