How to Watch HBO Max in Ireland in 2025

HBO Max, which recently became Max in the US, is a super-popular streaming platform available in 60+ countries. Unfortunately, HBO Max - and the new Max platform - are not available in Ireland. If you travel outside the US or other supported countries, you won't be able to stream HBO Max. Its strong geo-blocks prevent anyone in other regions from getting access.

While Max is available as an add-on to Hulu, the streamer is also exclusive to the US. That said, while it’s technically blocked in the country, you can access HBO Max in Ireland if you use a VPN. Connect to a US server since the full and newly launched Max library is available only in the US and its territories. (The older HBO Max is available in other areas.)

In this article, we’ll show you how to watch HBO Max in Ireland, why you need a VPN, and which VPNs work best. We’ll also cover the cost of Max, how to pay for it using different methods, and give you some recommendations on the latest must-watch shows and movies. Lastly, we wrap things up with answers to some FAQs. 

How to Watch HBO Max in Ireland

For streaming Max in Ireland, you have to connect to a VPN server in the US, which is the only place where the newer Max service is currently available. Once you get a US IP address, you can watch your favorite Max titles. Here are the steps you need to follow: 

1. Get a VPN that unblocks Max in Ireland (we recommend NordVPN). 
2. Download and install the VPN on the device(s) you'll use to watch HBO Max. 
3. Launch the VPN app and connect to a server in the US. 
4. Visit the HBO Max site and click "Get Max."
   
5. Select the plan that best meets your needs. 
   
6. Create an account by entering your email address.
   
7. Choose a payment method (US credit card or PayPal).
   
8. Click “Pay Now” to complete your payment.
9. And you're done! Start watching HBO Max in Ireland!

HBO Max requires payment with a US debit or credit card or PayPal account attached to a valid US billing address. If you can't use one, don't worry. There are a few alternative payment options you can try, including a virtual prepaid credit card and gift cards from Apple or Google Play. We'll provide a step-by-step guide for each method later in this article.

Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch HBO Max in Ireland?

You need a VPN to stream US Max in Ireland since licensing restrictions make it unavailable in the country. Max's newly launched, full-content library is only available in the US. It's also available in Latin America and the Caribbean, but the libraries are different. The older version of HBO Max is available in select European countries. Max is also available as a Hulu add-on, but Hulu is geo-restricted to the US, too.

If you try to watch HBO Max abroad from an unsupported region, you’ll receive an error saying: “Max is Not Available in Your Region. To learn more about where you can stream Max or to get troubleshooting tips, visit our Help Center.” 

A VPN can hide your real IP and give you one from a country where Max is available. If you want to stream on Max, you'll have to connect to a US server. That's the only country where it's fully accessible right now.

However, keep in mind that not every VPN works with Max. You need to choose the best VPN for HBO Max to unblock the platform consistently and provide super-fast speeds. Based on our hands-on tests, we recommend subscribing to NordVPN. It had no problems unblocking Max, and we were able to seamlessly stream in 4K.

The Best VPNs to Watch HBO Max in Ireland

When choosing a VPN, you need to make sure it meets specific criteria. First, you need to get a VPN that unblocks Max and other streaming platforms consistently. For this, you’ll need to get a VPN with a large server network. Keep in mind that you'll also need plenty of US-based servers, as that's where Max is available.

Moreover, you need a VPN that provides fast speeds and stable performance so your videos won’t buffer. In addition, it should offer state-of-the-art privacy and security. For instance, it should have obfuscation to hide your VPN traffic, a no-logs policy, secure protocols (like OpenVPN and WireGuard), a kill switch, and AES-256-bit encryption.

Finally, you should be able to stream HBO Max on different devices like smartphones, computers, and smart TVs. The VPN must allow multiple simultaneous connections as well. On top of that, it should be affordable and come with a money-back guarantee and 24/7 customer support.

Based on the criteria mentioned above, here are the 4 best VPNs for watching HBO Max in Ireland:

1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch HBO Max in Ireland
2. Surfshark - Fast and Secure VPN to Get HBO Max in Ireland
3. ExpressVPN - Premium VPN That Unblocks US HBO Max From Anywhere
4. CyberGhost VPN - Budget-Friendly VPN for Streaming Max in Ireland

1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch HBO Max in Ireland

NordVPN is the best VPN for watching HBO Max in Ireland. This is because it consistently and effortlessly unblocks Max and other streaming services, so you can always binge-watch your favorite content. The VPN gives you access to 7,000+ servers in 118 countries, including 1,970+ in 16 US locations, which means its servers aren’t overcrowded. 

Based on our speed tests, NordVPN provides super-fast speeds and reliable performance, so you can watch Max without buffering. It didn't matter whether we connected to a nearby server or one further away; we enjoyed the same streaming experience regardless.

As for privacy and security, NordVPN has excellent security features to protect your device and data from malware and cybercriminals. Most of its servers are obfuscated, so your VPN usage will be hidden. Plus, it has secure protocols like NordLynx, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN, along with AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 encryption, a kill switch, and an audited no-logs policy. 

NordVPN allows 10 simultaneous connections with native apps for the most popular operating systems. It's also compatible with devices that don't directly support VPN installation, like gaming consoles, routers, and some smart TVs.

As one of the more affordable providers, NordVPN offers a long-term plan of 24 months, which costs $3.39 per month. Lastly, it has a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 live chat support.

2. Surfshark - Fast and Secure VPN to Get HBO Max in Ireland

Surfshark is an excellent VPN for accessing HBO Max in Ireland. It can easily unblock Max from anywhere, thanks to its 600+ US servers in 22 cities. These are part of a wide network of 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. This means you shouldn't experience any issues connecting to a suitable server for streaming Max or any other services.

During our testing, we enjoyed blazing-fast connection speeds and stable performance across the board. All Surfshark servers have automatic obfuscation that turns on when restrictive firewalls are detected.

When it comes to security, Surfshark doesn't disappoint. It offers robust protocols like WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN for secure data transmission. AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 encryption are employed to safeguard your data, and they follow a strict no-logs policy. Plus, it has a kill switch to cut your Internet if the VPN fails.

Allowing unlimited simultaneous connections, Surfshark supports all popular devices like phones, computers, tablets, smart TVs, and more. It's compatible with routers, too, so you can protect devices like gaming consoles, which don't allow VPN installation.

Surfshark is quite budget-friendly, costing just $2.19 per month for plan of 24 months. Plus, you'll be able to test it out risk-free, thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee. If you decide it doesn't work for you, you can contact its customer support, available 24/7 via live chat, to request a refund.

3. ExpressVPN - Premium VPN That Unblocks US HBO Max From Anywhere

ExpressVPN is another solid VPN provider that can access Max in Ireland, as well as any other streamers. The VPN has an undisclosed number of servers in 105 countries, but it’s easy to find a nearby server to connect to for fast speeds. For instance, to unblock US-based Max, you can connect to one of its many servers in 24 US locations.

We performed speed tests, and ExpressVPN proved to be very fast with dependable performance. Plus, it has automatic obfuscation on its entire network, which is handy for when you're connected to restrictive networks or when you want to bypass VPN detection.

Moreover, it has many other high-end security and privacy features, which include a kill switch, an audited no-logs policy, and support for secure protocols like OpenVPN, Lightway, and IKEv2. These protocols use robust AES-256 and ChaCha20/Poly1305 encryption, depending on the protocol you select.

You can install ExpressVPN on all popular devices like computers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and more. It allows 8 simultaneous connections. On the down side, it's more expensive than the competition - it costs $4.99 per month for 1 month. Luckily, it also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 live chat support.

4. CyberGhost VPN - Budget-Friendly VPN for Streaming Max in Ireland

CyberGhost is another super-efficient VPN for streaming Max in Ireland. It has streaming-optimized servers that change their IPs more often, so the streamer will have a harder time detecting the VPN. This is why it's very capable of unblocking US Max and other streaming services. It also has an undisclosed number of servers in 100 countries, with servers in 11 US cities. 

CyberGhost delivers medium-fast speeds and stable performance across its network. You might notice some drops in speed if you connect to a server that's physically located very far from you. But it still worked well for HBO Max.

Unfortunately, CyberGhost doesn't have obfuscation, but there is a reliable kill switch. This VPN also has AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 encryption options, secure protocols (OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard), and a freshly audited no-logs policy. 

CyberGhost allows 7 simultaneous connections, so it’s very convenient if you have many devices. It supports all popular streaming devices like smartphones, computers, and smart TVs. It's one of the cheapest premium VPNs, too - it only costs $2.03 per month for 24 months. It also offers 24/7 live chat support and a 45-day money-back guarantee (if you subscribe to longer plans). 

How Much Is HBO Max in Ireland?

HBO Max offers three subscription plans, priced between €9.69 and €20.35 per month. The most budget-friendly option is the ad-supported plan, but if you prefer uninterrupted viewing, the ad-free plan is available starting at €16.47/month. Keep in mind, though, that this plan allows only 2 screens and 30 downloads.

For the best 4K experience, along with 4 screens and up to 100 downloads, we recommend opting for the "Ultimate Ad-Free" plan. The table below shows Max's price in US dollars and euros, with details of each subscription.

How to Pay for HBO Max in Ireland

If you want to pay for HBO Max in Ireland, you’ll need a payment method based in the US. There are 4 methods for signing up directly (not as an add-on through another streamer like Amazon Prime Video). You can pay with a virtual credit card, a US PayPal account, and a US Apple or Google Play gift card. Follow the steps below to see how the various methods work.

Using a Virtual Credit Card

To get a virtual credit card with a US billing address and buy a Max subscription in Ireland, you’ll need a VPN with US servers. Follow these easy steps: 

1. Subscribe to a VPN that unblocks HBO Max (we recommend NordVPN). 
2. Download and install the VPN on your streaming device. 
3. Connect to any server in the US. 
4. Go to US Unlocked, then click “Get Started.” 
   
5. Fill in your details to register for an account. 
   
6. Add funds to your account to get your new card details. 
7. Access Max’s main page and complete the sign-up process, as instructed earlier.
8. During checkout, select the credit/debit card method. 
   
9. Enter your virtual card details at checkout.
   
10. That's it! Now, you can start streaming Max.

Using a US PayPal Account

If you have a friend in the US, you can ask them to let you borrow their PayPal account to get a Max subscription. Here’s everything you need to do: 

1. Sign up for a trustworthy HBO Max VPN for Ireland (we recommend NordVPN). 
2. Install the VPN on any device you want to stream Max on. 
3. Connect to a US server. 
4. Go to HBO Max's website and sign up as instructed at the start of this article.
5. Select "PayPal" as your payment method.
   
6. Provide a US zip code (75254 or 75260) and select its corresponding US state.
   
7. Click "Pay Now" to complete your payment.
8. Choose something to watch and enjoy!

Using a US Apple Gift Card

This method requires creating a US-based Apple ID. First, subscribe to a VPN and connect to a server in the US. Here's what to do:

1. Subscribe to a VPN that works for Max (we recommend NordVPN). 
2. Download and install the VPN on your device.
3. Connect to any US server. 
4. Sign up for a new Apple ID using a US address. 
5. Go to MyGiftCardSupply and purchase a US Apple gift card. 
   
6. Add the gift card funds to your US App Store account.
7. Download the Max app from the App Store. 
   
8. Launch the app and sign up using your account funds.
9. Pick a show or movie and enjoy watching Max in Ireland.

Using a US Google Play Gift Card

Just like the Apple process, you have to create a US Google account for this method to work. This means you need to use a VPN with US servers. Follow the steps below: 

1. Get a VPN that unblocks HBO Max (we recommend NordVPN). 
2. Download and install the VPN on your streaming device. 
3. Connect to a server anywhere in the US. 
4. Create a US Google account with a US address. 
5. Buy a US Google Play gift card from MyGiftCardSupply. 
   
6. Add the gift card funds to your Play Store account.
7. Download the Max app from the Google Play Store. 
   
8. Open Max and sign up using your gift card funds.
9. Select a show or movie and start streaming!

What to Watch on HBO Max in Ireland?

On Max, you can watch many beloved shows and movies like Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, True Detective: Night Country, Parasite, and Joker. Max’s library also includes popular Emmy-nominated shows like Succession, The Last of Us, and The Idol. 

In addition to all that, you can watch content from other great networks like Discovery, TLC, The Food Network, Adult Swim, HGTV, Turner Classic Movies, Cartoon Network, and more. Last but not least, you can also watch shows and films from Studio Ghibli and DC. 

Here are some of the latest HBO Max titles you can watch: 

Can You Stream HBO Max in Ireland with a Free VPN?

Yes, you can watch Max in Ireland with a free VPN. However, we don't recommend it. This is because free VPNs lack important privacy and security features. Also, most of them collect and sell private data, putting your identity at risk. They usually can't unblock Max, either.

Plus, free VPNs come with limited features and bandwidth, which makes streaming an annoying experience. In addition, free VPNs have limited server networks, so you end up connecting to an overcrowded server, which provides slower speeds. This is why you're better off getting a VPN free trial from a premium provider that won't impose restrictions.

For a pleasant streaming experience, get the NordVPN free trial. It's available on Android for 7 days, and it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee if you want to try it on other devices. After the trial, you can get a long-term plan from one of the best VPN services to get unlimited bandwidth, optimized servers, and excellent security and privacy features. 

Final Thoughts

HBO Max, which just recently became Max, is one of the most popular streaming platforms, with thousands of movies and shows. Unfortunately, it's not available in Ireland. Even if you already have an account, if you travel to countries like Ireland where Max isn't supported, you won't be able to use it. To watch Max in Ireland, you'll need to use a VPN.

We recommend getting NordVPN. It’s currently the best VPN on the market for streaming and protecting your privacy. With thousands of super-fast servers all over the US, you can unblock HBO Max without a hassle. It also comes with SmartPlay and obfuscation to help bypass geo-blocks and keep your VPN usage hidden.

Alternatively, you can use other VPNs based on your specific needs. If you’re juggling multiple devices, Surfshark is perfect with its unlimited device connections. For lightning-fast streaming speeds, you can't go wrong with ExpressVPN. And if optimized streaming is your main focus, CyberGhost VPN offers dedicated servers for the best performance.

That wraps up our guide! If you have any questions, let us know in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!