5 Best VPNs for Iran in 2024

Iran is among the worst countries for Internet freedom due to extremely strict online censorship. Thousands of global websites are blocked, like news outlets and popular social media and messaging apps such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and WhatsApp. Moreover, citizens and journalists face arrests and convictions for posting opposition to the government.

Fortunately, you can use a VPN for Iran to overcome these restrictions. A VPN will hide your online activities from the Iranian authorities. You can also connect to a server in a different country to access blocked content or enjoy Iranian content while outside the country by connecting to a server in Iran. 

In this article, we’ll present the 5 best VPNs for Iran and teach you how to use a VPN in Iran. We’ll also compare the best options, explain why you need a VPN, how to buy a VPN, how to choose an option aligned with all your needs, as well as discuss whether using a VPN is legal in Iran. Finally, you’ll find answers to FAQs.

Best VPNs for Iran - Our Shortlist

1. CyberGhost VPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN with Iran IP in 2024
2. NordVPN – Best VPN for Iran with Top-of-the-Line Security
3. Surfshark – Easy-to-Use Iran VPN with a Sizable Server Network
4. ExpressVPN – Best VPN to Use in Iran If You Need Obfuscation
5. Private Internet Access – Highly Customizable VPN That Works in Iran

How to Get an Iran IP Address with a VPN

The fastest way to obtain an IP from Iran is to connect to a server found in that country. To do that, you need to sign up for a VPN, download its app, and connect. These are the steps you need to take:

1. Subscribe to a VPN with Iranian servers (we recommend CyberGhost VPN).
2. Download and install the VPN app on your device(s).
3. Launch the VPN app and enter your credentials to activate your account.
4. Connect to a VPN server in Iran or where your desired content is available.
5. You can now enjoy unrestricted Internet access in Iran!

At the moment, CyberGhost is the only provider that has Iranian VPN servers. However, most other VPNs offer servers close to Iran, allowing you to unblock the Web and protect your privacy. In that sense, we also recommend NordVPN, which comes as an excellent alternative.

The Best VPNs for Iran in 2024

To find the best Iran VPN, you should consider a few essential criteria from our article reviewing the top VPNs with the most servers. First, it needs to have a large global server fleet with servers in Iran for accessing local content like PressTV and Al-Kawthar TV. Besides unblocking websites in and out of the country, the VPN must be fast and perform reliably. 

Your chosen VPN should also come with obfuscated servers that will hide your VPN usage and a kill switch feature to cut your connection in the event of a VPN failure. Additionally, the provider must have advanced security features like military-grade encryption, a no-logs policy, and VPN protocols that will safeguard you from the strict Iranian authorities. 

Furthermore, the VPN needs to offer several simultaneous connections and support numerous devices like computers, smartphones, tablets, routers, gaming consoles, and more. Also, you'll want a fair price, a robust money-back policy, as well as 24/7 live chat customer support.

Based on these criteria, here are our recommendations for the best VPNs for Iran in 2024:

1. CyberGhost VPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN with Iran IP in 2024

CyberGhost VPN is the best VPN with an Iranian IP address, offering thousands of servers across 100 countries. It has 25+ Iran VPN servers so that you can unblock popular worldwide and local content like PressTV and Al-Kawthar TV. That said, this Iran IP VPN is a medium-fast provider, so having a relatively fast baseline connection wouldn't hurt.

While CyberGhost lacks obfuscated servers, it does have NoSpy servers, which are entirely owned and operated in-house. They mask your IP address and encrypt your traffic—just not the VPN usage itself. Besides this, you get a kill switch that works in the background, AES-256/ChaCha20 encryption, a few VPN protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2), and an audited no-logs policy.

What’s more, CyberGhost allows up to 7 simultaneous connections. Also, it's compatible with a wide range of devices and platforms. You can utilize its easy-to-use VPN apps on your phone, computer, tablet, smart TV, router, or gaming console. 

This VPN's 2-year plan is priced at $2.03/month and comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee. So, you get plenty of time to evaluate the service. Lastly, expect 24/7 live chat support, in addition to email support, support tickets, installation guides, and more.

2. NordVPN – Best VPN for Iran with Top-of-the-Line Security

NordVPN comes as the best VPN for Iran if you prioritize privacy and security. It has 6,300+ servers in 111 countries, which allows you to bypass all censorship restrictions. Although NordVPN lacks Iranian servers, it provides servers in Israel and Türkiye that enable access to global platforms and their local content. It's also among the fastest VPNs available right now.

One of NordVPN's main perks is that its plans include incredible security features. This provider has obfuscated servers across most of its network, a kill switch that cuts your connection if the VPN fails, AES-256/ChaCha20 encryption, an audited no-logs policy, and strong VPN protocols like NordLynx, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec. 

NordVPN supports 10 simultaneous connections, and it offers highly polished applications that work on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS/iPadOS, and more. You can also set it up on a router, which allows you to protect your entire household at once.

You can sign up for only $3.09/month if you opt for NordVPN's 2-year plan. Your purchase will be backed by a generous 30-day money-back policy, giving you more than plenty of time to test-drive the VPN. You will also benefit from its 24/7 customer support that can solve any issue that may arise. 

3. Surfshark – Easy-to-Use Iran VPN with a Sizable Server Network

Surfshark is a capable Iran VPN that seems suitable even for complete beginners. It has 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, including servers in Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, but it doesn’t offer Iranian servers. However, it effectively unblocks global services and local content in the Middle East. 

It offers lightning-fast speeds and consistent VPN connections. But that’s not all. Surfshark is also incredibly secure because of its obfuscation, kill switch, AES-256, and ChaCha20 encryption, audited no-logs policy, and robust VPN protocols, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec. 

It even offers unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing you to use the VPN on tons of different devices at the same time. In addition, Surfshark works with numerous devices like PCs, mobile devices, tablets, smart TVs, routers, and gaming consoles.

This VPN comes priced at $2.29/month (2-year plan), and there's also a 30-day money-back guarantee you can use if you’re not satisfied with the VPN. Last but not least, Surfshark offers 24/7-available customer support that guarantees an effective issue-solving process.

4. ExpressVPN – Best VPN to Use in Iran If You Need Obfuscation

ExpressVPN is the best VPN to use in Iran if you need obfuscation, which allows you to hide your VPN data. It has an extensive network of thousands of servers across 105 countries. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have servers in Iran. Still, you can connect to servers in countries like Israel or Egypt if you wish to unblock local Middle Eastern content and global websites. 

ExpressVPN has blazing-fast speeds and impressive overall performance. Furthermore, it provides excellent security features. You will benefit from automatic obfuscation on all its servers, an audited no-logs policy, a kill switch, AES-256/WolfSSL encryption, and robust VPN protocols like Lightway (its proprietary option), OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec. 

Additionally, the VPN allows you to establish 8 simultaneous connections, and it’s compatible with various devices, such as phones, computers, tablets, smart TVs, routers, and consoles. ExpressVPN's apps come with a mobile-like UI, so they're suitable even for first-time VPN users.

To get started, you'll need to pay $6.67/month for ExpressVPN's annual plan. You will get a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows you to request a full refund if you’re not satisfied with the VPN’s services. For an even better experience, ExpressVPN comes with knowledgeable customer support that you can contact 24/7 to overcome any issues.

5. Private Internet Access – Highly Customizable VPN That Works in Iran

Private Internet Access VPN (PIA) is a highly advanced VPN with thousands of servers across 90+ countries. This VPN for Iran doesn’t have servers in Iran, but it has servers in nearby countries, such as Israel, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. As a result, you’ll bypass online censorship and have access to foreign websites and local Middle Eastern content. 

If speed is what you’re looking for, you may be a bit disappointed, as PIA is slower than its competitors, but that doesn’t mean that it lacks decent overall performance. You will also enjoy AES-256/ChaCha20 encryption, obfuscation, a court-proven no-log policy, a kill switch, and robust protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec).

Moving on, PIA offers unlimited simultaneous connections and works with many devices, such as mobile devices, computers, routers, smart TVs, or gaming devices. Its interface is simple but comes with an unparalleled level of fine-tuning, making PIA suitable for advanced users.

This VPN's 2-year subscription is priced at only $2.03/month and comes backed by a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. As a result, you can try out the VPN and cancel your plan if you’re unsatisfied with what it offers. You’ll also have access to 24/7 customer support and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Best Iran VPNs: Compared

Why Do You Need a VPN in Iran?

You need a VPN in Iran so you can bypass online censorship and access global content freely. Here are a few other reasons you should keep in mind:

• Conceal Browsing Activity – Anyone posting opinions or content that opposes the government can face harsh punishments. That’s why you need a VPN for Iran to hide the websites you visit.
• Hide Your IP Address – ISPs in Iran track, gather, and share your online activities with the government. Luckily, VPNs encrypt your IP address and data, making it undetectable to anyone.  
• Avoid Local Censorship – News, health, shopping, science, sports, and pornography sites are routinely blocked in Iran. The government also restricts popular social media, messaging platforms, and streaming sites such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, and Netflix. You’ll need a VPN for unrestricted access to any of this content. 
• Access Global Content – In Iran, you won’t be able to access global platforms like Hulu because they’re geo-restricted. Use a VPN to change your location to a country where they’re available to freely stream your desired content.
• Bypass ISP Throttling – Iran requires ISPs to limit the data people can use because of higher bandwidth prices and believing there is not enough for people’s needs. An Iran VPN will allow you to choose a server elsewhere.
• Browse from Home While Traveling – If you’re traveling outside of Iran and want to access local services like PressTV and Al-Kawthar TV, you need the best VPN for Iran IP addresses.
• Connect Safely to Public Wi-Fi – Public Wi-Fi networks attract hackers that will intercept your data. To avoid cyberattacks, use a VPN with strong encryption.
• Get Fair Pricing – Various services and goods can have different prices based on your location. A VPN will allow you to access any deals available anywhere in the world.
• Shop Safely Online – When shopping online, you have to provide your sensitive financial information. A VPN will keep your data safe.
• Enjoy Better Gaming – Some games are restricted or banned in Iran, but a VPN will allow access. Plus, by connecting to a VPN server close to a game server, you’ll reduce ping and stabilize latency for better gameplay.
• Secure Your Torrent Downloads – While you can torrent in Iran, the government checks your P2P files to find out if you’re torrenting something banned. Use a VPN to safely download anything. 

How to Choose the Best Iran VPN?

It's crucial to establish strict requirements that will help you pinpoint the best Iran VPNs. That said, prioritize privacy and security features and obfuscation, as the Web is quite restricted in the country. Here's everything you need to keep in mind:

• Servers in Iran, Neighboring Countries, and Worldwide: Servers in the country will help you obtain an Iran IP address, while servers elsewhere will help you unblock the Web.
• Unlimited Access to Geo-Blocked Services: Your VPN should offer strong content-unblocking tools that will allow you to access Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and other blocked Web services.
• Reliable Performance and Stable Speed: Every VPN performs differently. So, try to find one that's known for its performance and that can deliver stable and fast speeds.
• Obfuscation Technologies: Obfuscation will hide the fact that you use a VPN, which is imperative in countries with a high level of censorship, such as Iran.
• Functional Kill Switch: This feature will help you prevent data leaks. A kill switch shuts down your Web connection if your VPN session becomes unstable.
• Security and Privacy Measures: Don't use anything less than OpenVPN and WireGuard, which should be paired with encryption ciphers like AES-256 and ChaCha20.
• Simultaneous Connections: Be aware of how many devices you want to protect, and then find a VPN that offers a sufficient number of simultaneous connections.
• Supported Devices / Native Apps: You'll also want native apps across the board for any device you might use at home - be it a computer, phone, tablet, or even a router.
• Competitive Price: Even the best VPN for Iran doesn't have to cost much. If you can, invest in a long-term subscription, as those most often come with steep discounts.
• Solid Money-Back Policy: You'll want a VPN that has nothing to hide. So, money-back guarantees are important, as they allow you to test-drive everything before committing.
• Always-There Customer Support: You'll appreciate having 24/7 live chat support, which is always the most efficient way to troubleshoot technical problems.

Are VPNs Legal in Iran? 

Yes, VPNs are legal in Iran - but only if use government-approved VPN providers. In other words, you need to have a permit to use a VPN. The government heavily blocks and restricts VPN usage in the country, and they are seen as a threat because they allow people to access global content and potentially violate the law. 

Recently, the government introduced a bill that would criminalize the distribution and use of VPNs. If passed, it will prohibit ISPs from granting access to Iranian data with foreign VPNs. Worse yet, if you use an unapproved VPN, the bill proposes a punishment of 91 days to 2 years of imprisonment, a fine of 5,000,000 to 40,000,000 Rials, or both.

That’s why if you decide to use a VPN, you need to choose a reliable one with robust security features like obfuscation to hide your VPN usage and protect you from legal consequences.

Can You Use a Free VPN in Iran?

Yes, you can use a free VPN in Iran, but we strongly advise you not to. Free VPNs often come with several risks. First, they may not unblock all content you want to access. They can also reveal your location and identity, resulting in potential legal punishments, as they lack robust security features. 

Furthermore, a free VPN for Iran may engage in selling your data to third parties or cause data leaks. Also, free VPNs have limited server networks that won’t support all your activities and will limit your speeds. 

Instead of wasting your time on a free VPN, it's a much better idea to try a premium VPN for free. We're talking about trials here, giving you access to premium features without any risk. More precisely, you can sign up for NordVPN for free if you're on Android, as the VPN has a 7-day trial. It offers a 30-day money-back policy on all other platforms.

Nothing can replace a premium VPN. So, if you'd like to check more trials, or perhaps you wish to expand your options, head to our guide on the best VPN providers.

Final Thoughts

Iran imposes rigorous censorship, blocking popular streaming, social media, and messaging platforms like Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, and Netflix. It also restricts content that it believes violates the law, such as news, health, and science sites. To unblock the Web in Iran, access Iranian sites from outside the country, and protect yourself from surveillance, you need a trustworthy and capable Iran VPN.

We recommend CyberGhost as it's a hugely capable VPN with Iran IP addresses, giving you access to both local and global content. It also keeps your privacy protected, as it leaves no stone unturned in terms of its protocols, policies, and encryption. That said, we also recommend NordVPN if you need an extra layer of privacy, as it's the best VPN for Iran with servers across the Middle East.

That’s all for our guide on the best VPN for Iran. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comment section below. Thank you for reading!