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How to Watch Disney+ Hotstar Outside India for FREE in 2024
Last updated March 1, 2024
While Hotstar is only accessible in the UK, Canada, and Singapore (where Disney+ is a separate service), Disney+ Hotstar is only available in India and a few other countries. Moreover, the timeless Indian classics and Bollywood blockbusters available on Disney Plus Hotstar are reserved for the Indian library only.
Even if you have an account, if you travel outside India, you won’t be able to watch your favorite content due to different licensing agreements. But fortunately, you can still watch Disney+ Hotstar outside India using a VPN. You can hide your real IP with a VPN and replace it with an Indian one, so Disney+ Hotstar will think you’re in India.
In this article, we'll show you how to watch Hotstar outside India, explain why you need a VPN, and suggest the best providers. We'll also cover the cost of Disney+ Hotstar and various methods to pay for it. Plus, we'll share where the streaming service is available, recommend content to watch, provide troubleshooting tips if you can’t access Disney+ Hotstar, and more.
How to Watch Hotstar Outside India?
To watch Hotstar outside India, you’ll need a reliable VPN with Indian servers to connect to. Once you do that, your current IP will be spoofed, and you can automatically unblock Disney+ Hotstar. Here’s exactly what you need to do:
- Get a VPN that works well with Disney Plus Hotstar (we recommend Surfshark).
- Download and install the VPN app on your device.
- Open the VPN client and connect to any Indian server.
- Visit Disney+ Hotstar’s website to watch your favorite shows.
- Log in if you have a Disney+ Hotstar subscription, or watch its free content.
Disney+ Hotstar offers a ton of movies and TV shows that you can watch for free. But if you want to unlock premium content on Disney+ Hotstar, you’ll need a valid Indian phone number and a payment method with an Indian billing address. Don’t have those? We’ll offer some alternative payment methods later in this article, so stay tuned.
Do You Need a VPN for Streaming Hotstar Outside India?
Yes, you need a VPN for streaming Hotstar outside India if you want to access the Indian library that is only available with the Disney+ Hotstar service. With a VPN, you’ll bypass geo-restrictions, so you can access the complete library of Indian and Bollywood content.
However, if you try to watch Disney+ Hotstar outside India without connecting to an Indian VPN server, you’ll get the following error message: “An error occurred while processing your request.”
If you want to watch Hotstar outside India, you’ll need to get an Indian IP address with a VPN. This will trick the streaming service into thinking you’re currently located in India, giving you access to the Disney+ Hotstar India library.
But keep in mind that not just any VPN is suited for this job. Only the best Hotstar VPN providers will be able to unblock Disney Plus Hotstar outside India consistently. Based on our tests, Surfshark is your best bet. It has super-fast speeds, strong unblocking abilities, and enough virtual Indian servers to prevent overcrowding.
The Best VPNs to Watch Disney+ Hotstar Abroad
To find the best VPN to watch Disney+ Hotstar abroad, you should look for several key features. These include the ability to unblock Disney+ Hotstar easily and a wide range of servers both in India and globally. (Note that due to new data collection policies in India, finding a VPN with Indian servers can be more challenging these days.)
The VPN should deliver fast speeds and consistent performance worldwide. It must also have obfuscation and a kill switch to prevent Disney+ Hotstar from detecting your location. For security, make sure it offers strong encryption (AES 256-bit) and protocols (like WireGuard and OpenVPN) to safeguard your data. A strict no-logs policy is also essential for privacy protection.
Furthermore, opt for a VPN compatible with all popular operating systems, including Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Linux, and more. It should allow numerous simultaneous connections so you can use it for other activities besides streaming. Lastly, make sure that the VPN offers 24/7 live chat support and a generous, risk-free, money-back policy.
Based on these requirements, here are the top VPNs recommended to watch Hotstar outside India:
- Surfshark – Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch Hotstar Outside India
- ExpressVPN – Unblock Disney+ Hotstar Worldwide with Blazing-Fast Servers
- CyberGhost VPN – Cheap VPN for Streaming Disney Plus Hotstar Outside India
1. Surfshark – Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch Hotstar Outside India
Surfshark is the best VPN to stream Disney Plus Hotstar outside India because it unblocks Disney+ Hotstar effortlessly, along with other global streaming platforms. It boasts 50 virtual Indian servers in Delhi and Mumbai, with a total of 3,200+ servers across 100 countries. Its smart DNS and Nexus features enhance its unblocking abilities.
In terms of connections, Surfshark ensures high-speeds and reliable performance. Its proprietary Nexus technology further improves speed and performance by utilizing its entire server network. It dynamically optimizes speed based on your activities. So whether you're downloading, browsing, or streaming Disney+ Hotstar, your data remains completely private.
Surfshark's kill switch feature makes sure that any IP leaks are prevented if the VPN connection drops. So streaming services like Disney+ Hotstar remain unaware of any suspicious IP changes. Additionally, Camouflage Mode, which is Surfshark’s obfuscation, allows you to hide your VPN usage from streaming platforms and on restrictive networks.
The provider adheres to a strict no-logs policy, which is independently audited to prove that it never tracks your online activities. It also incorporates industry-standard encryption and protocols, including AES-256-enabled OpenVPN and IKEv2, as well as WireGuard with ChaCha20.
Compatible with various platforms such as Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Linux, smart TVs, and more, Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections. Its apps are bug-free and beginner-friendly. Furthermore, it provides 24/7 customer support and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring customer satisfaction.
PROS
- 50 virtual Indian servers.
- Unblocks Disney+ Hotstar effortlessly.
- High-speed streaming with Nexus.
- Camouflage Mode on all servers.
- Unlimited simultaneous connections.
- 30-day refund period.
CONS
- Initial connection times vary.
2. ExpressVPN – Unblock Disney+ Hotstar Worldwide with Blazing-Fast Servers
ExpressVPN is an excellent choice because it can unblock Disney+ Hotstar worldwide with its entire network being obfuscated. It has over 3,000 servers in 105 countries, including Indian virtual servers in Chennai and New Delhi. So, it effortlessly unblocks other streaming services, too.
With ExpressVPN, you'll experience super-fast speeds and dependable performance, regardless of your streaming location. Our speed tests confirm that ExpressVPN's obfuscation minimally impacts streaming performance. So even if you’re connected to distant servers, you won’t experience buffering or quality drops while watching HD and 4K videos.
ExpressVPN offers a kill switch to halt traffic if the connection drops, ensuring that your data remains private. It strictly adheres to a no-logs policy, which is regularly audited for transparency. When it comes to data protection, you can choose from its proprietary protocol, Lightway, alongside OpenVPN and IKEv2. Plus, you’ll get AES 256-bit encryption.
Compatible with various devices, a single ExpressVPN subscription allows for 8 simultaneous connections. It has easy-to-use apps for smartphones, computers, tablets, smart TVs, and more. Plus, it has a dedicated router app, which is very convenient.
Should any issues arise, ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat support and a 30-day money-back guarantee for peace of mind.
PROS
- Virtual servers in India.
- Easily unblocks Disney Plus Hotstar.
- All servers are obfuscated.
- Dedicated router app.
- Customer support available 24/7.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
CONS
- Slightly more expensive than competitors.
3. CyberGhost VPN – Cheap VPN for Streaming Disney Plus Hotstar Outside India
CyberGhost VPN is another good choice because it unblocks Disney+ Hotstar outside India consistently. It has an impressive network of 11,500+ servers in 100 countries, of which 37 virtual Indian servers are in Mumbai. It doesn’t have obfuscated servers, but you’ll still have an easy time watching Disney+ Hotstar and other streamers anywhere in the world.
We performed speed tests on both its distant and nearby servers, and we always had fast speeds and stable performance. We were able to watch and skip through videos without noticing any lags or quality drops.
CyberGhost has an always-on kill switch, so your IP won’t accidentally leak while streaming. The VPN also supports various protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2 with AES 256-bit encryption and WireGuard with ChaCha20 encryption. Additionally, it adheres to an audited no-logs policy, and it’s based in Romania, which is a privacy-friendly country.
The VPN allows 7 simultaneous connections, so it’s more than enough for one person. CyberGhost’s apps are compatible with all major devices, including Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, and smart TVs.
Customer support is available 24/7 via live chat, so you’ll always get prompt assistance. When we tested the live chat feature, we were always directed to knowledgeable reps who responded quickly. Lastly, CyberGhost offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
PROS
- 37 virtual Indian servers.
- Impressive server fleet.
- Unblocks Disney+ Hotstar outside India.
- 7 simultaneous connections.
- 24/7 live chat.
- 45-day money-back period.
CONS
- No obfuscation.
How Much is Disney+ Hotstar?
Disney+ Hotstar comes at a very reasonable price and offers 3 distinct plans. The Mobile plan costs ₹149 per quarter or ₹499 per year. The Super plan has a ₹299 quarterly option and a yearly option that costs ₹899 annually. On the other hand, the Premium plan provides 3 options: ₹299 per month, ₹499 per quarter, or ₹1,499 per year.
Check out the table below for a breakdown of the prices and features for both plans:
How to Pay for Hotstar Outside India?
To pay for Hotstar outside India, you have 2 options: by paying with an Indian credit card or Paytm wallet or by using a Google Play gift card. Either way, you must have a valid Indian phone number to complete verification via text message. Here are step-by-step guides on how to subscribe to Disney+ Hotstar:
Method 1: Pay for Disney+ Hotstar with an Indian Credit Card or Paytm
This is the easiest and quickest way to subscribe to Disney+ Hotstar if you have a friend or family member who can lend you an Indian credit card or Paytm wallet. Alternatively, you can use your own Indian credit card if you’re an expat. These are the exact steps you need to follow:
- Get a VPN that has Indian servers (we recommend Surfshark).
- Download and install the VPN on your device.
- Launch the VPN client and connect to a server in India.
- Go to Disney+ Hotstar’s website and click on the “Subscribe” button.
- Pick a plan that fits your needs and click the “Continue” button.
- Fill in an Indian phone number and complete text message verification.
- Enter your Indian credit card or Paytm wallet to pay for the subscription you choose.
- Choose any title and start watching!
Method 2: Pay for Disney+ Hotstar with a Google Play Gift Card
To pay for Disney+ Hotstar with a Google Play gift card, you’ll need to create a new Google account that has an Indian address. You’ll also be required to enter a valid Indian phone number. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you out:
- Subscribe to a VPN that works with Disney Plus Hotstar (we recommend Surfshark).
- Download the VPN on your Android device.
- Launch the VPN app and connect to any Indian VPN server.
- Create a new Google account, and make sure to set the region to India.
- Get an India Google Play gift card and redeem the funds in the Indian Play Store.
- Download the Disney+ Hotstar app from the Google Play Store on your device.
- Launch Disney+ Hotstar and subscribe through the app.
- Use your Indian phone number to complete text verification.
- Pay with your Google Play funds to get your subscription.
- Pick something to watch and enjoy!
Where is Hotstar Available?
Disney+ Hotstar is currently available in India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. If you want to stream the standalone Hotstar service, it’s only accessible in the UK, Canada, and Singapore—and its content is limited. Moreover, Hotstar and Disney+ are separate services in those countries, so you’ll have to pay for both.
The availability of content on streaming services like Disney+ Hotstar is subject to copyright agreements varying from country to country. Licensing and distribution agreements dictate which movies, TV shows, and other content can be streamed in each region. As a result, the selection of available content often differs for each country.
For the latest updates, be sure to visit the official Disney+ Hotstar India website to stay informed about the expansion of service availability to new countries.
What Can You Watch on Disney+ Hotstar?
Disney+ Hotstar features a wide array of Indian movies and TV shows, like Hungama 2, Dance+ Pro, and Chhichhore. Additionally, you can stream Star Wars content, popular Marvel entertainment, Disney classics, Pixar animation, and National Geographic documentaries.
On top of that, you can also get access to Hotstar Specials like School of Lies and The Freelancer. If you want to indulge in extensive sports coverage, you can try ICC Cricket, NFL, MMA, Premier League football, and Wimbledon tennis.
Here are a few more title recommendations to watch on Disney Plus Hotstar outside India:
Why is Hotstar Not Working Outside India?
There could be various reasons why Hotstar isn't working outside India with a VPN. Anything from an unstable Internet connection to an out-of-date VPN app can cause issues. So, if you encounter difficulties accessing Disney+ Hotstar outside India, here are a few potentially quick fixes:
- Reboot Your Device/VPN – Sometimes, technical issues can be resolved by simply restarting your device or the VPN application. This can help refresh the connection and resolve any temporary glitches.
- Verify Your Internet Connection – Ensure that your device is properly connected to the Internet. A stable and strong connection is essential for streaming services like Disney+ Hotstar to function smoothly with a VPN.
- Update Your VPN Software – Outdated VPN applications may encounter compatibility issues or security vulnerabilities. Updating your VPN software to the latest version can potentially resolve any bugs and improve performance.
- Switch to Another VPN Server – If one VPN server is experiencing issues or is blocked by Disney Plus Hotstar, switching to another server in the same country may provide a workaround.
- Try Other VPN Protocols – Different protocols offer varying levels of security and may work more effectively with certain streaming services. Trying alternative protocols within your VPN settings can help troubleshoot connectivity issues.
- Temporarily Disable Your Device's Firewall – Firewalls can sometimes interfere with VPN connections, particularly if they are overly restrictive. Disabling your device's firewall temporarily can help determine if it is causing the problem.
- Remove Other VPN Apps – Having multiple VPN applications installed on your device can lead to conflicts and may affect the performance of each VPN. Uninstalling any unnecessary VPN apps can help streamline your network configuration.
- Contact Your VPN Provider's Support Team – If you've exhausted all other troubleshooting steps and are still experiencing issues with Disney+ Hotstar and your VPN, try contacting your VPN provider's customer support for further assistance and guidance.
Final Thoughts
Disney+ Hostar is one of the best streaming platforms you can use to binge-watch your favorite shows. However, its complete library of Indian shows and Bollywood movies is geo-restricted to India. However, you can bypass these restrictions with a VPN and watch Indian Hotstar content anywhere in the world.
We recommend Surfshark as the best VPN for watching Hotstar outside India because it effortlessly unblocks Disney+ Hostar. This is thanks to 50 Indian servers in Mumbai and Delhi, super-fast streaming speeds, and network-wide obfuscation to hide your VPN traffic.
That would be all on how to watch Disney+ Hotstar outside India. If you have any questions or doubts, feel free to share them via the comments section below. And finally, thanks for reading!
