
Telegram is an encrypted messaging program that is popular globally. However, it is blocked in countries such as Iran, Russia, and India. If you are seeking to access Telegram in countries such as these, then your best bet is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access the app.
A VPN encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a secure intermediate server which may be located in a different country. This makes it difficult for your internet service provider (ISP) or government to determine your online patterns and monitor your online behaviour. A VPN can also be used to access geographically restricted services or apps such as Telegram.
Here, I’ll show you the best VPNs for accessing Telegram. I have reviewed the top providers for the app below, but if you’re short on time here’s a quick summary.
Best VPNs for Telegram:
- NordVPN: My number one choice when it comes to VPNs for Telegram. It offers fast connection speeds, strong encryption, and it has servers available in several different countries, giving users lots of options for their IP address location. These features all add up to make this app the clear top contender. In addition, NordVPN subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring that users are able to try the service risk-free.
- Surfshark: A great budget option for Telegram. It is affordable but still offers top-tier security measures and allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously.
- ExpressVPN: This provider is a solid option, especially for those who also like to stream. It offers strong security and very fast connection speeds.
- CyberGhost: A reliable VPN provider that has a huge global network. It is a private platform that has solid security measures in place.
- PrivateVPN: This a privacy-centric provider that prioritizes the protection of user data and has strong encryption and other security features on offer.
- IPVanish: A well-known platform that has strong security measures in place. It is one of the better options for unblocking restricted services.
- Private Internet Access: This is a lightweight and secure option that can grant access to restricted services.
- Atlas VPN: A fast service that has strong security measures in place and allows you to access Telegram with ease.
Below, I will look at the best VPNs that I found for Telegram. To make the list, I looked for services that met the following criteria:
- Can provide access to Telegram in countries where the service is blocked
- Strong encryption and security, ensuring that users’ identities are kept protected at all times
- Large server network
- No traffic logs kept
- Easy to use
- Apps for mobile devices
I mention more about the criteria I used in the testing methodology section below.
Best VPNs for Telegram
Here are the best VPNs for Telegram:
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is my number one choice for Telegram. With over 5,000 servers in about 60 countries, it’s hard to beat NordVPN when it comes to server choices. It also offers fast, stable connection speeds and is capable of unblocking many different services, including Telegram in countries such as India and Russia.
In addition to its prowess at unblocking services, NordVPN offers several solid security measures. These include 256-bit AES encryption, an app-specific kill switch, an automatic ad-blocker, a malware scanner, and protection against DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks. This service also stores no logs, ensuring the privacy and safety of users in volatile countries where internet freedom is limited. In addition, this service accepts cryptocurrency payments. This keeps users’ names private and is a relatively anonymous form of payment, unlike traditional credit card payments.
Users can download NordVPN apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. In addition, routers can be configured to work with the service. Six simultaneous device connections are supported and the customer support team can be reached 24/7.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds are great for users that like to stream
- This app can unblock Telegram with ease
- No logs are stored
- Strong security measures in place
- Apps are available for many different platforms
Cons:
- The desktop app can be slow at times.
BEST VPN APP FOR TELEGRAM:With its strong security measures and powerful unblocking capabilities, NordVPN is the best option for users who want to access Telegram in countries where this type of service is restricted. This provider comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee which lets users try the service risk-free.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is an excellent option for users looking for a budget option for unblocking Telegram. It has VPN servers in about 100 countries and has a server count that is around the 3,200 mark. It is also a great option for those who stream regularly.
Surfshark has strong security measures in place and this service stores no logs. Its security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks. Traffic scrambling is also provided. This service’s customer service team is available 24/7 for users who may need help. Another positive aspect of this VPN is its support for cryptocurrency transactions which offer a higher degree of anonymity when compared to traditional credit card payments.
Users can download Surfshark apps for Linux, Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Some routers can have this service manually installed on them too. This provider allows for an unlimited number of connections which is great for a household with lots of devices.
Pros:
- Able to unblock many different services including Telegram
- Fast connection speeds which is great for streaming
- Strong security measures are in place
- An unlimited number of connections is supported
- Cryptocurrency payments are supported which is great for increased anonymity
Cons:
- Some servers are a little slow at times
BEST BUDGET OPTION FOR TELEGRAM:Surfshark is a solid budget option that can easily unblock services such as Telegram at an affordable price. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is an excellent VPN for users that stream a lot. It is also capable of unblocking many different services including Telegram. This service’s connection speeds are also very fast. With over 3,000 servers in 94+ countries, there are several options for users to access many different server locations.
In addition to its unblocking capabilities and sizeable server network, ExpressVPN offers several different security options for users’ protection. These include 256-bit AES encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. ExpressVPN also has access to a .onion site which can be accessed via the TOR network. This allows potential subscribers to access the website anonymously. This service also accepts cryptocurrency payments, allowing for even more anonymity. This provider doesn’t store logs either.
There are apps available for several platforms as well. These include iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, and macOS. It can also be installed on some routers. If a user is in need of assistance, they can contact the customer support team via the provided live chat which is available 24/7. This service allows for five simultaneous device connections.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds are available
- Can unblock many different streaming services
- .onion site available and cryptocurrency payments supported, allowing for increased anonymity
- Strong security measures are in place
Cons:
- This service is a little more expensive than other providers on the list
LARGE SERVER NETWORK AND FAST STREAMING SPEEDS:In addition to being able to easily unblock Telegram, ExpressVPN is also good for streaming. This service provides a 30-day money-back guarantee.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost has a massive server network that is capable of unblocking services such as Amazon Prime Video and ITV. In addition to streaming services, it is also capable of unblocking other services including the messaging app Telegram. The connection speeds are fast too. In total, CyberGhost has almost 10,000 servers in around 91 countries.
The provider’s security measures include 256-bit AES protection and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. This service stores no logs and accepts cryptocurrency payments, allowing users to make payments anonymously. There is also a kill switch included.
CyberGhost apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. Some routers can also be manually set up with this service too. This provider’s customer support team is available 24/7 and seven simultaneous connections are supported.
Pros:
- Apps are easy to use
- 24/7 live chat service is available
- Large server network
- Strong security measures are in place
Cons:
- Blocked in the UAE and China
- P2P and torrenting might not work on all of the servers
GREAT UNBLOCKING AND STREAMING OPTION:CyberGhost has an expansive network that is great for both streaming services and for unblocking messaging services such as Telegram. This service comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
5. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN is a smaller VPN provider with just over 200 servers in 60+ countries. Despite this small server count, PrivateVPN doesn’t lack anything when it comes to server speeds and unblocking capabilities. With PrivateVPN, you can access streaming services from different countries as well as unblock messaging apps like Telegram in countries where the service is restricted.
In addition to its unblocking capabilities, PrivateVPN is also a secure service. It offers 256-bit AES encryption, protection from IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leaks, and this service also stores no logs. In addition, this provider accepts cryptocurrency payments, allowing for a greater level of anonymity.
PrivateVPN apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. In addition, Linux devices and routers can be manually configured to work with this service. It should be noted, however, that this app’s customer service team can only be reached during regular business hours. The quality of customer service is good but this may be an issue for some users. 10 devices can be connected using a single subscription.
Pros:
- Unblocks Netflix and many other streaming sites
- Fast connection speeds
- No logs are stored
- Works in China
Cons:
- Small server network
- Customer service team only available during regular business hours
PRIVACY-FOCUSED OPTION:PrivateVPN is a smaller VPN but performs just as well as bigger providers. It can unblock services such as Telegram without any trouble and it also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
6. IPVanish
IPVanish has a fast server network that consists of 2,000+ servers in about 50 countries. This provider has proven to be able to bypass top-tier streaming services and it is also a great option for unblocking Telegram.
In addition to its speed and unblocking capabilities, IPVanish also has strong security measures in place. Users of this platform will be protected by 256-bit AES encryption and they will also be protected against DNS and IPv6 leaks.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. PIA has customer service that is available via their 24/7 live chat as well. Users are allowed to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously with this service.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds
- Unlimited number of connections allowed
- No logs are stored
- Great option for torrenters and streamers
Cons:
- Some servers don’t work with Netflix
- Apps don’t work in China
UNLIMITED NUMBER OF CONNECTIONS:IPVanish is a fast option and is also secure and capable of unblocking services such as Telegram. It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
7. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a lightweight option that has servers in more than 80 countries. It is also quite capable of unblocking both streaming services and other services such as Telegram.
In addition, PIA has strong security measures in place that include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and split tunneling. This service also stores no logs.
Apps can be downloaded for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. PIA’S customer service team is available 24/7 via live chat as well. It allows for 10 simultaneous device connections.
Pros:
- Strong security measures are in place
- Provides secure access to many different services
- The WireGuardVPN protocol is supported
- Several customization options are available.
Cons:
- Doesn’t work well in China
- The app’s design could use some improvement
LIGHTWEIGHT OPTION:PIA is a lightweight option that can successfully unblock Telegram. It is very secure as well. This service gives its subscribers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
8. Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN has over 750 servers in about 40 locations. It is a smaller provider but this doesn’t mean that the service offered suffers. It is still a fast option with strong security measures in place. It can unblock streaming services and it is also capable of unblocking Telegram and other messaging apps.
Its security features include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks. This service stores no logs and MultiHop servers are available that can encrypt your data twice.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. In addition, an unlimited number of connections is supported.
Pros:
- Can unblock many services successfully (streaming and messaging apps like Telegram)
- Fast connection speeds
- MultiHop servers encrypt data twice
Cons:
- Doesn’t work in China
- Customer service could be better
FAST STREAMING AND STRONG ENCRYPTION:Atlas VPN has strong security in place and can successfully unblock services such as Telegram without hassle. This service comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Testing methodology: how I found the best VPNs for Telegram
There are many different VPN services available for purchase in today’s world. However, not all of them are created equal. I reviewed many different VPNs in order to arrive at the final list in this article. I used a strict set of criteria to make this list. Here are some of the factors that I considered:
- Strong security: VPNs need to protect users from hackers on open WiFi networks and protect their privacy while they browse the web. This requires strong encryption and other tools such as kill switches.
- Speed: Fast connection speeds are necessary for ensuring that users are able to use the internet without lag. This ensures that while messaging on Telegram or even downloading media from the app, users are able to do so without frustration.
- Ability to unblock services: Good VPNs are able to unblock services such as streaming services and even messaging apps like Telegram. Not all VPNs are capable of this.
- Servers: Good VPNs need to have server networks with a wide global reach. This allows users to access IP addresses from many different countries, giving them the option of being able to bypass various geographical restrictions.
How to unblock Telegram with a VPN
Follow these steps in order to unblock Telegram:
- Sign up for a VPN service. I recommend using NordVPN.
- Download and install the VPN app on the device that you’re using (likely a mobile device).
- Open the VPN app and connect to a server in a country where Telegram isn’t blocked (such as Canada). This will give you a new IP address that should be capable of accessing Telegram.
- Download the Telegram app to your device.
- Log in to Telegram and you should now be able to send and receive messages. If you’re still having problems, consider contacting your VPN’s support team.
If you have problems downloading Telegram in the first place, you may need to sideload the Telegram app.
Best VPNs for Telegram FAQs
Is it legal to use a VPN with Telegram?
VPNs are legal in most countries. However, there are a few countries where VPN use is restricted or frowned upon, such as China and Russia. With that being said, if you are able to access Telegram's website and the website of your VPN provider, then they are likely legal to use in your country.
Should I use a free VPN to access Telegram
No, don't do this. Free VPNs come with tradeoffs. With a free VPN, the provider's infrastructure won't be as sturdy as that of a paid provider. The free provider's network cannot support large numbers of users and will likely be slower than a paid provider's network. In addition, free VPNs often lack the security features, such as encryption, of paid VPNs. This puts users' private information in jeopardy. Moreover, free VPNs have been known to engage in shady activities such as the sale of user data for a profit.
In addition, free VPNs aren't able to unblock many different services such as streaming services or even Telegram.
If you want a reliable, secure VPN that can unblock services, then I recommend sticking to a paid VPN provider.
What are the other uses of a VPN?
In addition to unblocking apps such as Telegram in countries where they are restricted, VPNs can also give access to geographically restricted streaming content and other services, such as online banking, that may be difficult to access while abroad.
Is Telegram safe?
Telegram is relatively safe thanks to its use of end-to-end encryption. Note that this needs to be turned on in the app's settings, however.
Contents [hide]
- Best VPNs for Telegram
- 1. NordVPN
- 2. Surfshark
- 3. ExpressVPN
- 4. CyberGhost
- 5. PrivateVPN
- 6. IPVanish
- 7. Private Internet Access
- 8. Atlas VPN
- Testing methodology: how I found the best VPNs for Telegram
- How to unblock Telegram with a VPN
- Best VPNs for Telegram FAQs
- Is it legal to use a VPN with Telegram?
- Should I use a free VPN to access Telegram
- What are the other uses of a VPN?
- Is Telegram safe?







