If you live in Canada and want to enjoy Hulu’s broad range of award-winning shows and movies, you’ll need to take a few extra steps.
Hulu, primarily available for U.S. viewers, and it requires a workaround for Canadian users to access its content. You’ll need to use a virtual private network (VPN) to bypass the geo-restrictions.
A VPN can reroute your internet connection through a server in the U.S., making it appear as though you are accessing Hulu from within the United States. You’ll then be able to watch Hulu in Canada.
Why isn’t Hulu Available in Canada?
Hulu isn’t available in Canada due to licensing deals and copyright agreements. These agreements restrict Hulu and other production companies from distributing content outside the US.
How Does VPN Lets You Access Hulu from Canada
Using a VPN enables you to get around Hulu’s geo-restrictions by masking your Canadian IP address. When you connect to a VPN, it gives you a U.S. IP address. This makes Hulu’s system think you’re in the United States, allowing you to watch their content without issues.
But there is also a caution, Hulu tries to block connections made through VPNs and proxies.
If Hulu detects VPN use, it will prevent access even if you’re physically in the United States.
This is a recurring issue if you use a free VPN. You can use one of the premium VPNs I’ve listed below. I tested them personally and made sure that they help access Hulu from Canada.
To get started, choose a VPN that provides U.S. servers, robust encryption, and features to hide VPN usage from Hulu. After setting up, connect to a U.S. server, and you should be able to enjoy Hulu as if you were in the States.
Best Working VPNs for Watching Hulu in Canada
1. ExpressVPN — Best VPN for Hulu in Canada
ExpressVPN stands out as the top choice for streaming Hulu in Canada due to its combined speed and effective unblocking capabilities. With servers spread across 17 cities in the U.S., you have numerous options for reliable connections.
Pros:
- 500+ servers in 17 U.S. cities
- Effective unblocking capabilities
- High-speed streaming
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Up to 8 simultaneous connections
- 24/7 live chat support
- Apps available for smartphones, tablets, PC, laptop and Amazon Firestick.
- Set up available for smart TV, Roku, PlayStation, and Xbox.
- Unblocks Hulu, US Netflix, Max, Freevee, Peacock TV, BBC iPlayer, ESPN+, Sling TV and YouTube TV.
Cons:
- Montly plan is expensive
When you use ExpressVPN, you get access to servers that can easily bypass Hulu’s geoblocks on the first try.
Each server includes obfuscation, making it challenging for Hulu to detect VPN usage. This means fewer errors and smoother streaming experiences.
Whether you are near the northern border or the southern coast of the U.S., you can stream Hulu in 4K or full HD with minimal delay.
The only significant drawback is its cost. While it is more expensive compared to other VPNs, the discounts available on extended plans make it more affordable. The yearly plan, for example, is priced at $6.67 per month plus 3 months free.
2. NordVPN — Fastest and Affordable for Streaming Hulu in Canada
NordVPN is another strong contender, particularly praised for its blazing-fast connection speeds. It provides a consistent and lag-free streaming experience.
Pros:
- Extremely fast connection speeds
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 1000+ servers in 16 U.S. locations
- High security
- Dedicated servers for streaming
- Apps for smartphones, tablets, and Amazon firestick
Cons:
- Experienced a server breach in 2018
One slight downside is NordVPN can sometimes require you to switch servers to bypass Hulu’s geoblocks. Despite that, it excels in speed, providing a streaming experience free from lag and buffering, whether connecting to a nearby or distant server.
NordVPN also maintains robust security measures, ensuring that Hulu won’t easily detect VPN use.
NordVPN is cost-efficient, especially with its long-term plans. While its monthly plan may be on the pricier side, subscribing to the two-year plan can save you a good amount of money at $3.55 per month.
3. Surfshark — Budget-Friendly VPN for Hulu in Canada
Surfshark is a great option for those looking for a cost-effective VPN service without compromising on quality. It offers strong unblocking abilities and allows an unlimited number of devices to connect simultaneously.
Pros:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Affordable extended plans
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Strong unblocking capabilities
Cons:
- Sometimes nconsistent connection speeds
Perfect for large households, Surfshark lets you connect multiple devices without slowing down your streaming. It offers unlimited bandwidth, ensuring a great streaming experience on Hulu for everyone.
Surfshark’s servers in the U.S. can typically unblock Hulu on the first try. However, its connection speeds can be inconsistent, which might result in occasional buffering.
In terms of affordability, Surfshark has attractive long-term plans. While the monthly plan can be expensive, the two-year plan at $2.49 per month offers the best value for money.
FAQs
When will Hulu become available in Canada?
There is no confirmed date for Hulu’s official launch in Canada. While rumours have circulated, Hulu has yet to announce any plans for expanding into the Canadian market.
Can I participate in the Hulu free trial as a Canadian resident?
Yes, you can take advantage of the Hulu free trial in Canada by using a VPN and signing up with a U.S. payment method. This allows you to enjoy Hulu’s offerings for the trial period.
Are there legitimate methods to access Hulu in Canada without using a VPN?
Currently, using a VPN service to access Hulu outside the United States is the most common solution. Some people also use shared accounts with friends or family in the U.S., but an official and straightforward method without a VPN does not exist.
Does Hulu offer its services through Amazon Prime in Canada?
Hulu is not available through Amazon Prime in Canada. The service is exclusive to Hulu’s platform, and you will need to use a VPN and a U.S.-based payment method to access it from Canada.
What are the ways to stream Hulu on Disney Plus in Canada?
Content from Hulu that appears on Disney+ in Canada can be found under the Star section, which includes some Hulu originals and shows from Disney-owned studios. However, this section does not host all Hulu content.
How can Canadian viewers successfully sign up for and access Hulu?
Canadian viewers can sign up for Hulu by using a VPN to connect to a U.S. server. They also need a U.S. payment method, which can be managed through services like StatesCard.
Once these steps are completed, you can access Hulu’s full library from Canada.
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