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Starz is a US-based streaming service with a wide library of shows and movies, but it’s only available in the United States and Puerto Rico. A limited version exists in Canada through add-ons on platforms like Prime Video and Hulu, but the catalog is far smaller.
Starz employs a robust geo-blocking system. If you visit its site without connecting to a VPN and click on the login button, you will see an error message that says, “STARZ online streaming services are only available through participating partners located in the United States or Puerto Rico”.
So why exactly do you need a VPN for Starz? The platform uses strict geo-restrictions that prevent you from logging in outside the US. Even though some Starz content appears on third-party platforms like Hulu+ Live TV, Apple TV+, DirecTV, FuboTV, or Sling TV, these options have smaller or regional libraries. The full Starz catalog is only available on the official US service.
By connecting to a VPN server in the United States, you get a US-based IP address that tricks Starz into thinking you’re streaming from inside the country. This instantly bypasses the geo-blocks, unlocks the complete Starz library, and lets you stream without interruptions.
Here’s what a VPN for Starz gives you:
✔ Access the full US Starz catalog from anywhere in the world
✔ Stream on multiple devices without restrictions
✔ Unblock Starz on third-party platforms like Hulu or Prime Video
✔ Bypass geo-blocking error messages
✔ Protect your streaming activity with encryption
In this guide, we’ll cover the best VPNs for Starz, how to set them up, different payment methods, and what makes Starz different from Starzplay. We’ll also look at popular shows and movies, and answer common FAQs.
Using a VPN to access STARZ might seem harmless, but it directly conflicts with the platform’s terms of service. If you’ve ever seen a “Forbidden” error while logging in, it’s likely because STARZ detected VPN usage and blocked your connection. Their help documentation confirms that VPNs are unsupported, and users must disable them to regain access. On Apple devices, this can be done by navigating to Settings > General > VPN and toggling it off.
Legally speaking, STARZ restricts access to users residing within the United States, its territories, and the District of Columbia. This geographic clause is clearly outlined in their access requirements. VPNs that mask your location, even if you're a legitimate subscriber, can trigger denial of service. While this isn’t illegal in the criminal sense, it does violate STARZ’s user agreement, which could result in account suspension or loss of access.
The platform also enforces strict rules around account usage and security. Users are prohibited from sharing their STARZ account with others or tampering with any security technology protecting the platform. These clauses are designed to prevent unauthorized access and protect content licensing agreements. Attempting to bypass these restrictions using VPNs or other tools puts your account at risk.
Free VPNs, in particular, are often unreliable and easily flagged by STARZ’s detection systems. That’s why we strongly recommend following our tested solutions. We’ve thoroughly evaluated these steps across multiple devices and VPN setups to ensure they work. Trust our recommendations as they’re based on hands-on testing, not speculation.
Want to watch Starz outside the US? Frustrated by geo-restrictions blocking your favorite shows and movies?
The best VPN for Starz should unblock the platform reliably, provide fast and stable speeds for HD and 4K streaming, and work across multiple devices. It should also include features that enhance privacy and security, such as military-grade AES-256 encryption, secure protocols like WireGuard or OpenVPN, a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch to protect your connection.
Here are the key features to look for in a Starz VPN:
✅ Wide US and global server network for consistent access and fast connections
✅ Lightning-fast speeds for HD and 4K streaming without buffering
✅ Obfuscated servers to bypass VPN detection on Starz
✅ Kill switch to protect traffic if the VPN disconnects
✅ Strong privacy and security with AES-256 encryption and secure protocols
✅ Support for multiple simultaneous device connections
✅ Affordable pricing with a money-back guarantee
✅ 24/7 customer support for troubleshooting and setup assistance
Based on these criteria, here are the 3 best VPNs to stream Starz in 2025:
NordVPN is the best VPN for streaming Starz outside the USA because it seamlessly unblocks the media streaming platform. It can bypass all geo-blocks across the Web, which means you can also access other US-based platforms like Hulu, Disney+, and Max.
It gives you access to 7,400+ servers in 118 countries. All of its VPN servers have blazing-fast speeds with no bandwidth limitations. During our tests, its performance was surprisingly good, as we were able to stream on 4K resolution without any buffering delays.
Apart from that, NordVPN is equally good regarding security and privacy. It has obfuscation in a select number of locations and a robust kill switch that keeps you secure during disconnections. With that, it has an independently audited no-logs policy and the latest VPN protocols like NordLynx, NordWhisper, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN that use unbreakable encryption (AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 ).
Another significant benefit of this VPN is connecting 10 simultaneous connections. Since it works on all major devices and platforms, such as Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Smart TVs, all the members of your household can stream on Starz at the same time.
The best part is that NordVPN is quite affordable. Its 24 months plan costs as low as $3.09 per month. With that, you also have a 30-day money-back guarantee that extends to all its plans and 24/7 live chat support in case any issues arise.
How to Watch Starz Outside the US Using NordVPN
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It’s hard to go wrong with Surfshark as it smoothly unblocks Starz in the US and all other major streaming platforms anywhere in the world. And a sufficiently vast server network of 3,200+ servers in 100 countries comes in handy here.
We thoroughly tested its US servers and noticed that all are very fast and stable. Depending on your baseline connection speed, you can easily stream content on Starz in FHD (1080p), QHD (2K), and 4K resolutions.
Surfshark is also revered for its network-wide obfuscation to hide VPN usage and a prompt kill switch that blocks network traffic during disconnections. Regarding security and privacy, Surfshark does not keep logs, as it has an audited no-logs policy. It also uses secure protocols like WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN with unbreakable AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20.
The best part is that it lets you connect unlimited simultaneous connections, which is excellent for sharing with friends and family. Furthermore, you can install Surfshark on a wide range of devices running macOS, Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and more. If your device does not natively support VPNs, you can connect by installing Surfshark on your router.
Surfshark's 24 months plan costs as low as $2.19 per month, which makes it a great option if you have a tight budget. It is topped up with a 30-day money-back guarantee, which allows you to test it risk-free. Of course, you can always turn to its 24/7 live chat support if any issues arise.
Why Surfshark Works Great for Starz Outside the US
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ExpressVPN is another excellent option, as it lets you easily unblock and stream Starz in the United States. It has undisclosed number of servers in 105 countries.
With that, its speeds are blazing fast and stable. We tested many servers nearby and further away, and our speeds stayed consistent. Furthermore, it has obfuscation and a responsive kill-switch mechanism across the entire network.
This VPN also performs equally well in terms of security and privacy. It has a fully audited no-logs policy paired with highly secure protocols like OpenVPN, Lightway, and IKEv2. These protocols use military-grade encryption (AES-256 and ChaCha20/Poly1305).
Since it allows up to 8 simultaneous connections and has widespread device support, you can split your subscription with your family. Also, you can install it on almost all major devices, such as computers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, routers, and more. This means you can use it with the Starz app on your mobile or streaming device, and the main website.
Unfortunately, this VPN is more expensive, starting at $4.99 per month for the 24 months plan. But on the positive side, it has a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing risk-free testing. And if you face any issues, you can always contact its 24/7 live customer support via chat.
Why ExpressVPN Is Ideal for Starz in 2025
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CyberGhost VPN is a reliable option for streaming Starz outside the US, thanks to its streaming-optimized servers that bypass geo-restrictions with ease. Its network includes undisclosed number of servers in 100 countries, with more than 2,000 servers available across 11 US cities, making it simple to connect and access Starz content.
Performance is steady, with medium-fast speeds suitable for HD and 4K playback. While connections to distant servers may slow down slightly, users with a fast base connection should not experience major issues. Although it lacks obfuscation, CyberGhost can still unblock Starz and most other streaming services effectively.
Your data is protected with OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard and AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20. Its independently audited no-logs policy guarantees that none of your activity is stored. A built-in kill switch further safeguards your traffic by blocking leaks if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly.
CyberGhost allows up to 7 simultaneous connections connections at the same time, so you can stream Starz on multiple devices. The apps are beginner-friendly and compatible with computers, smartphones, smart TVs, and more.
Pricing is competitive, starting from $2.19 per month per 24 months. All plans include a 45-day money-back guarantee money-back guarantee, letting you test the VPN risk-free.
CyberGhost Streaming Highlights for Starz Fans
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Private Internet Access (PIA) is a trusted US-based VPN focused on privacy and data protection, while also performing well for streaming. It provides instant access to Starz along with dozens of other popular platforms. PIA comes with undisclosed number of servers in 91 countries, covering every US state, which gives it a unique edge for unlocking US-based content like Starz.
By default, PIA delivers reliable speeds and stable performance, depending on the protocol you select. Its settings allow deep customization, including multiple types of kill switches to manage VPN behavior if your connection drops. Obfuscation is supported as well, via the Shadowsocks proxy.
Supported protocols include WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IPsec (IKEv2), paired with AES-128-GCM, AES-256-GCM, AES-128-CBC, AES-256-CBC, and ChaCha20 encryption ciphers, giving you the flexibility to adjust your encryption levels. On top of that, PIA enforces a strict no-logs policy, has passed multiple independent audits, and offers open-source software to ensure transparency.
With unlimited device support, you can use unlimited simultaneous connections. Its apps are available across desktops, laptops, phones, tablets, streaming devices, and more.
As one of the most affordable VPNs, you can get a 24 months PIA subscription starting at $2.19 per month. It also includes a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 live chat support for quick assistance.
Why PIA Is a Smart Choice for Starz
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Starz can be accessed outside the US by using a capable VPN and choosing a server in the United States. This temporarily switches your virtual location, allowing you to dodge the platform’s geo-restrictions. Here’s what you need to do:
Subscribe to Starz with a valid US-based payment method because the platform is geo-restricted. Fortunately, there’s another easier way. You can also use Starz gift cards to subscribe from outside the US. We’ll teach you how you can do it later in this article.
You can pay for Starz using US-based credit/debit cards, PayPal, and Google Pay. That said, people outside America may not be able to use these methods. Fortunately, Starz also accepts gift cards, and you can use these to subscribe from anywhere in the world. No matter which VPN you use, we recommend NordVPN. For your ease, we’ve created step-by-step guides for each method. Take a look at them below.
Starz accepts multiple debit/credit cards, such as Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. You just need to input your card details, and if you have sufficient funds available, your subscription will start immediately. However, note that this method is only suitable for those who have a US-based credit or debit card.
Subscribing to Starz using PayPal is also very straightforward; in this case, you will be entering your PayPal address. Again, this method will only work if you have a US-based PayPal account and if it has sufficient funds available.
This Starz payment method is the most suitable one if you don’t have a US payment method, which is the case with the majority of those who live outside America. You can purchase a $25 - $50 gift card and redeem it. Let’s look at the steps involved in this process.
Starz offers a wide range of shows, including exclusive originals like Marry & George, The Serpent Queen, Gaslit, Power, Outlander, and more. It also features popular movies like Planet of the Apes, Little Women, Jurassic World Dominion, Kingdom of Heaven, Maleficent, and more.
If you love watching documentaries, it also features widely acclaimed titles like Wrong Man, Leavenworth, Confronting a Serial Killer, and more. It also has comedy series like Pary Don, Gravity, Gaslit, and many more.
Here’s a comprehensive list of the most popular titles on Starz:
The most significant difference between Starz and Starzplay is that they both cater to different markets despite having the same parent company, Lionsgate. Starz is available only for the US audience. However, you can also partially access it in Canada, but only as part of other streaming services, with very limited content.
On the other hand, Starzplay is another video-on-demand service from Lionsgate, targeting 19 countries across North Africa and the Middle East. In 2022, it was rebranded to Lionsgate+ for the MENA and European regions and became Lionsgate Play in Asia.
However, Lionsgate+ recently got shut down in the UK in February 2024. Despite having the same parent company, the content on Starz and Starzplay is vastly different. This means that you can’t watch a large number of Starz series on Starzplay.
Here is a list of countries in which each of the platforms mentioned above are available:
Want to stream Starz shows and movies without restrictions or avoid buffering, but don’t want to spend money? Using a free VPN might seem like an easy solution, but it’s important to know the risks. Here’s how free VPNs stack up compared to premium options:
As you can see, free VPNs often struggle with streaming, speed, and security. To watch Starz without interruptions, a premium VPN is the safer and more reliable choice.
If you’re on a budget, you can try a premium VPN risk-free. For example, NordVPN offers a 7-day Android trial plus a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can enjoy all features without any risk.
Starz is available only to viewers in the US, and the platform actively blocks people from connecting from other parts of the world. This means that you can’t watch Starz outside the US while traveling. However, we have a solution. You can unblock and access it overseas by simply connecting to a VPN server in the US.
A VPN helps mask your IP address and switches your virtual location to your desired country. This means you can trick Starz into thinking you’re in the US. However, you need a very capable VPN for this. NordVPN is our top choice because it readily bypasses the toughest geo-blocks while maintaining lightning-fast streaming speeds.
For Starz streaming, Surfshark stands out as a fast and reliable VPN, offering unlimited connections and features like NoBorders mode. ExpressVPN delivers a user-friendly experience on any device, with the Lightway protocol for buffer-free streaming, and Smart DNS for uninterrupted access. CyberGhost VPN is a budget-friendly option with thousands of streaming-optimized servers. For more advanced users, Private Internet Access offers extensive customization and features like split tunneling and port forwarding, making it a versatile choice for multiple devices.
Some Guides for Your Reference:
We hope this article answers all your questions about watching Starz from anywhere in the world. Feel free to share your experience with us in the comment section below.