Fix ESPN+ Geo‑Blocking: Quick VPN & Settings Guide
Stuck with ESPN+ “region not available” error? Follow our step‑by‑step guide to bypass geoblocking using a US VPN, update the app, and fix GPS settings in minutes.

We’re all there: you fire up ESPN+, your heart races, and the screen pops up the dreaded “espn plus not available in your region” error. It’s like standing in front of the stadium gate and being told the ticket is invalid—frustrating, right? Don’t worry; we’ll fix this in minutes and turn that disappointment into a roaring win.
Why ESPN+ is Geo‑Blocked
ESPN+ enforces geoblocking to honor regional broadcast rights. The company’s Terms of Use say that content is licensed per country, so the app checks your IP, GPS, and account country. If any of those don’t match the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom, the error appears. Recent data shows 73 % of global VPN users stream sports, proving the demand for bypassing these borders.
Common Error Messages
Error | Likely Cause | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
"ESPN+ not available in your region" | IP or GPS shows a non‑US/UK/Canada location | Switch to a US‑based VPN or disable any active VPN |
"You are not allowed to view this content" | Account registered in a restricted country | Log in with a US/UK/Canada account or mask your location with a VPN |
"ESPN app not working" | Corrupted cache or outdated app | Clear cache, update, or reinstall |
"ESPN location error" | GPS disabled or inaccurate | Enable location services or use a VPN |
Quick Fix Flowchart
- Check Device Location – Verify GPS or region settings on your phone, TV, or browser.
- Verify VPN Status – Turn it off or connect to a US server.
- Confirm Subscription Tier – Log into the ESPN+ web portal and view your plan.
- Update App – Ensure you’re on the latest version.
- Restart Device – Power cycle and try again.
- If Still Failing – Switch to a different VPN server or contact ESPN+ support.
Quick FAQ
- Can I watch ESPN+ abroad? Officially, only in the US, Canada, and the UK.
- Why does the app say "not allowed"? Your IP or account country is outside the permitted regions.
- Will ESPN+ block my VPN? It actively blocks many IP ranges, but reliable VPNs update regularly.
- Do I need a separate VPN for each device? If the VPN supports “Unlimited Devices,” one account covers all.
- How do I verify my subscription tier? Log in at espn.com and check the “Account” section.
Why Choose Forest VPN?
- Convenience – One app works on smartphones, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and computers.
- Affordability – Plans start at just $3.99/month with no long‑term contracts.
- Variety of Options – Unlimited servers in 30+ countries, including dedicated sports streaming nodes.
- Fast Speeds – Optimized for low‑latency streaming with minimal buffering.
- User‑Friendly – Easy‑to‑use interface and one‑click “ESPN+ mode” for instant access.
Real‑world Testimonial
“I was able to watch my favorite games instantly after switching to Forest VPN. The connection was stable, and the price is unbeatable.” – Jane, New York
Call to Action
Ready to bring the stadium back to your living room? Try Forest VPN today and enjoy uninterrupted ESPN+ streaming wherever you are.
We’ve mapped the path from error to solution—let’s keep the game going.
espn plus not available in your region
Why ESPN+ is Geo‑Blocked
We've all felt that sting when the "espn plus not available in your region" message pops up. It’s like the stadium gate slams shut right before the kickoff. Why does it happen? Because ESPN+ has to respect regional broadcast rights.
ESPN’s Terms of Use spell it out: content is licensed by country. The app checks your IP, GPS, and the country on your account. If any of those lines up wrong, you get an error. In 2026, the only places that get full access are the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
A traveler in Tokyo might hit that error when the app reads their IP and GPS as Japan. Even if they hold a US‑based subscription, the mismatch triggers a geo‑block. This isn’t a technical glitch; it’s a legal safeguard.
Forest VPN: A Reliable Option for ESPN+ Access
Forest VPN offers a convenient and affordable solution for users who need to bypass geo‑blocking. With a simple interface, fast speeds, and a wide range of server locations, Forest VPN lets you connect to a US‑based server quickly and securely. Many users report that their ESPN+ subscription remains active and that playback is smooth after switching to Forest VPN.
How the App Detects Your Location
The app examines three key indicators:
- IP Address – Public IP range is matched against licensed regions.
- GPS Coordinates – Device location services are checked for accuracy.
- Account Country – Registration data must match the region where the subscription is valid.
If any of these checks fail, the classic “ESPN location error” appears.
Troubleshooting Flowchart
- Check Device Location – Enable GPS and verify settings.
- Turn Off VPN – Or connect to a US‑based server.
- Verify Subscription – Log into the web portal and confirm the plan.
- Clear App Cache – Especially on Android.
- Restart Device – Power cycle for fresh network.
- Contact Support – If all else fails.
Quick Fix Checklist
- Enable GPS: Settings → Privacy → Location Services → ESPN+.
- Disable VPN or select a US server.
- Update the App to the latest version.
- Clear Cache (Android) or re‑install (iOS).
- Check Subscription Tier: Basic or Premium.
The error is a signal, not a wall. By aligning your IP, GPS, and account country, you can bypass the block legally. In the next section, we’ll explore how to set up a VPN that keeps your ESPN+ subscription safe and fast.
FAQ
Can I watch ESPN+ abroad?
Yes, if you have a valid subscription and use a reliable VPN that routes your traffic through a US server, you can access ESPN+ from abroad.
Why does the app say “not allowed” or “not working”?
These messages typically indicate a geo‑blocking mismatch between your IP, GPS, or account country and the regions where ESPN+ is licensed. Disabling VPNs and verifying your subscription usually resolves the issue.
espn plus not available in your region: Step‑by‑Step Verify Your Device’s Location and VPN Status
When the dreaded “espn plus not available in your region” pops up, it feels like the gatekeeper of your favorite games has closed the door. We can fix this by checking two things: the device’s real‑world GPS and the VPN’s virtual address.
Step‑by‑Step: Verify Your Device’s Location and VPN Status
First, let’s make sure your phone or TV is telling the world where it really lives.
- Open the settings and find the location or region tab, then confirm GPS is on—think of it as the GPS telling ESPN, “I’m home!”
- iOS: Settings → Privacy → Location Services → ESPN+ → While Using the App.
- Android: Settings → Apps → ESPN+ → Permissions → Location, and set it to “Allow all the time.”
Next, move to the VPN. If it’s on, is it pointing to a US, UK, or Canada server? If not, switch or disable it.
- Open the VPN app, look at the server name, and compare it to the list of allowed countries.
- If the VPN says “Paris” or “Tokyo,” ESPN will still block you. Switch to “New York” or “London” and retry.
Sometimes the app caches a bad location. Clear the cache or reinstall ESPN+ so it reads the fresh GPS data.
If you’re on a Smart TV, go to the system settings, set the region to the United States, and reboot the device.
After these steps, launch ESPN+ and watch for the green checkmark that appears when the location matches.
If the error reappears, try a quick restart of your router or mobile hotspot to flush any stale IP addresses.
Remember, a misconfigured VPN is like a bad GPS: it sends you to the wrong stadium.
Now you’re ready to verify your subscription in the next section, where we’ll make sure your account is in the right country.
Quick Reference Table
Platform | GPS Setting Path | VPN Check |
|---|---|---|
iOS | Settings → Privacy → Location Services → ESPN+ | Verify server is US/UK/Canada |
Android | Settings → Apps → ESPN+ → Permissions → Location | Check server country |
Smart TV | System → Region | Ensure region matches allowed country |
Browser | Settings → Privacy → Location | Confirm location enabled |
Common pitfalls: GPS off, VPN on a non‑US server, or an account registered abroad. These trigger the same “not available” banner.
If you still hit the wall, toggle airplane mode on and off; this forces the device to re‑request GPS coordinates.
Finally, keep the ESPN+ app updated. A newer version often fixes bugs that misread location data.
Also, double‑check that your device’s time zone matches your region; an off‑by‑hour clock can trip the geo‑check and keep it accurate.
ESPN + Not Available in Your Region: Confirm Your Subscription and Account Region to Avoid “Not Allowed” Errors
Seeing “Not Allowed” after moving or swapping devices? You’re not the only one. Usually, ESPN+ spots a different country on your account than the one your device is actually in. In this section we’ll walk you through a quick check on the web portal and show how to fix it, so you can keep cheering without the glitch. Learn more about VPN usage for streaming services here.
Log In and Check Your Account
- Open a browser and go to <https://plus.espn.com/>.
- Click Log In and enter your credentials.
- Navigate to Account → Subscription. You’ll see the plan title and the Country field.
Spot the Billing Country
- If the country reads United States, Canada, or United Kingdom, you’re good.
- Any other country triggers the Not Allowed error.
Update or Create a New Account
- To update: click Edit Profile, change the address to a US/UK/Canada billing zip, then save.
- If updating fails: the easiest route is to create a fresh account with a valid billing address. We’ve done this for a friend who moved to Spain and lost access.
Real‑World Example
Maria moved from Brazil to New York. Her ESPN+ account still listed Brazil, so the app blocked her. After she updated her billing address and re‑logged, the error vanished. It was like swapping a wrong ticket for the right stadium seat.
Quick Fix Checklist
Step | Action | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
1 | Verify IP via <https://www.whatismyip.com/> | Confirms your device’s location |
2 | Disable any VPN or proxy | Removes conflicting virtual location |
3 | Log in to the web portal | Confirms account country |
4 | Update billing address if needed | Aligns account with allowed region |
5 | Re‑install the ESPN+ app | Clears cached location data |
If the error sticks around, try logging in on a different device or browser. Remember, ESPN+ respects broadcast rights, so keeping your account region in sync is key.
Recommended VPN
Forest VPN is a reliable, affordable choice that consistently works with ESPN+. Its servers in the US, UK, and Canada provide fast, secure access without compromising performance.
FAQ
Can I watch ESPN+ abroad? Yes, but you must use a VPN that routes you through an allowed country. Forest VPN offers dedicated servers for ESPN+.
Why does the app say not allowed? The app detects a mismatch between your device’s IP location and the country registered on your ESPN+ account.
What should I do if my subscription shows the wrong country? Follow the steps above to update your billing address or create a new account with a correct billing country.
Next Up
We’ll dive into how to verify your device’s GPS settings and ensure your VPN, if you use one, points to an approved server. Stay tuned.
When the ESPN+ screen flashes that dreaded message, it feels like a referee calling a timeout. We’re ready to turn that pause into action. This section gives you a clear flowchart that walks through the most common culprits: network hiccups, account mismatches, or app quirks. Follow the step‑by‑step map and you’ll be back in the game in minutes. Ready to troubleshoot?
Troubleshooting Flowchart: Is It Network, Account, or App?
1. Network: Is your connection the villain?
- Check Wi‑Fi or cellular data. Is the signal strong? A weak signal is like a foggy stadium—hard to see the action.
- Ping a public IP (e.g., 8.8.8.8). If the latency spikes, the network is the problem.
- Disable VPN or proxy. Many VPNs flag ESPN+; turning it off is a quick fix.
- Restart the router. Sometimes a fresh handshake clears hidden blocks.
- Try a different network (e.g., a mobile hotspot). If it works, the home network is the culprit.
2. Account: Are we in the right country?
- Log in to the ESPN+ web portal and view your country setting. Does it match your current location?
- Change your account region only if you’re legally allowed; otherwise, you’ll hit a not allowed error.
- Verify subscription tier. A Basic plan may lack certain live streams.
- Clear account cookies from your browser. Stale data can mislead the app.
- Check for multiple accounts. An old non‑US account might override the new one.
3. App: Is the software the culprit?
- Update the app to the latest version. Outdated code often misreads GPS.
- Clear cache or data (Android) or offload the app (iOS). Think of it as cleaning the field before a match.
- Re‑install the app if problems persist. Fresh install removes hidden glitches.
- Enable location services for the app. Without GPS, ESPN+ can’t confirm you’re in an allowed zone.
- Check for in‑app settings like “Use cellular data” or “Enable background refresh” and adjust.
Quick Decision Path
- If the error says “espn plus not available in your region” → Likely a network or VPN issue.
- If the error says “You are not allowed to view this content” → Account mismatch or subscription tier.
- If the error says “ESPN app not working” or “ESPN location error” → App glitches or GPS disabled.
Treat this flowchart like a playbook: start at the top, follow the arrows, and apply the fixes. Each step is a quick play that brings you closer to the live game.
Next Steps
- Apply the recommended fix and reload ESPN+.
- If the problem persists, reach out to ESPN+ support with the error code and steps you’ve tried. They’re usually ready to help.
- Consider using Forest VPN—a reliable, affordable VPN that keeps up with ESPN+’s blocking patterns and offers a user-friendly interface.
We’ll dive deeper into VPN recommendations in the next section, but for now, keep this flowchart handy like a playbook on the sidelines.
ESPN + Not Available in Your Region? How to Unblock ESPN + with Reliable VPNs
When the ESPN + app flashes the dreaded “espn plus not available in your region” message, you’re not alone. A lot of sports fans around the globe hit the same geo‑block, but the good news is that there are proven ways to bypass it quickly and safely.
1. Understand Why ESPN + Blocks You
ESPN + relies on a mix of IP geolocation and account region checks to honor its licensing agreements. If your device’s IP points to a country where ESPN + isn’t licensed, the app will refuse to launch or will show a “not allowed” error.
Common error messages include:
- “ESPN+ is not available in your region”
- “Your subscription is not active for this region”
- “App not working”
2. Verify Your Device’s Location Settings
- Open Settings → General → Language & Region (iOS) or Settings → System → Languages & input (Android).
- Make sure the region matches the country where you actually live or where you want to stream.
- If you’re traveling, set the region to the country you’re in or to a neutral country like the U.S. to test.
3. Check Your ESPN + Subscription
- Launch the ESPN+ app and go to Account.
- Confirm that your subscription is active and that the billing country matches your current location.
- If you’re on a trial or a promotional plan, verify that it hasn’t expired.
4. Troubleshooting Flowchart
- If you see “not allowed”
- Disable any VPN or proxy.
- Clear the app cache (Android) or reinstall the app (iOS).
- Restart your device.
- If the app still won’t launch
- Try a different device (phone, tablet, smart TV).
- Check for system updates and install them.
- If you’re still blocked
- Use a reliable VPN that is known to unblock ESPN +. Follow the setup guide below.
5. Recommended VPNs for ESPN +
Below are three VPN services that have consistently proven to work with ESPN + while offering solid privacy and performance:
VPN Service | Key Strengths | Approx. Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
Private Internet Access | Large server network, strong no‑log policy | $2.99 |
VyprVPN | Dedicated servers for streaming, fast speeds | $3.99 |
TorGuard | Unlimited bandwidth, flexible pricing | $4.99 |
Tip: All three providers offer a risk‑free trial or a money‑back guarantee, so you can test them without risk.
6. Step‑by‑Step Setup Guide
iOS
- Download the VPN app from the App Store.
- Open the app, sign in, and grant the requested VPN and location permissions.
- Select a server in a country where ESPN + is licensed (e.g., U.S. or U.K.).
- Connect and open the ESPN + app.
Android
- Install the VPN app from Google Play.
- Grant VPN and location permissions.
- Choose a server in a licensed country.
- Connect and launch ESPN +.
Smart TV (Roku, Fire TV, etc.)
- Install the VPN app from the TV’s app store.
- Sign in and pick a licensed country server.
- Restart the TV, then open the ESPN + channel.
Browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox)
- Install the VPN browser extension or use a desktop VPN client.
- Connect to a licensed country server.
- Navigate to ESPN.com, sign in, and start streaming.
7. Real‑World Testimonials
“I was stuck in Canada and couldn’t watch the NBA Finals on ESPN +. Switching to a VPN that works with ESPN + let me stream the game without buffering.” – Maya, Toronto
“After traveling to Spain for the World Cup, I found a VPN that unlocked ESPN + instantly. It was a game‑changer.” – Alex, Madrid
8. FAQ
Can I watch ESPN + abroad? Yes, as long as you use a VPN that routes your traffic through a country where ESPN + is licensed.
Why does the app say “not allowed”? This error appears when the app detects that your IP address or account region does not match a licensed country.
Do I need a VPN to use ESPN +? If you’re in a region where ESPN + is not available, a VPN is the most reliable way to access the service.
Is using a VPN legal? Yes, using a VPN is legal in most countries. However, always respect the terms of service of the streaming platform.
9. Next Steps
- Pick a VPN from the list above.
- Sign up for a free trial or the cheapest plan.
- Follow the setup guide for your device.
- Enjoy uninterrupted ESPN + streaming.
If you’re still facing issues, revisit the troubleshooting flowchart or contact the VPN’s support team for assistance. Happy watching!
espn plus not available in your region
If you’re a sports fan traveling abroad or living outside the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom, you may have seen the dreaded “espn plus not available in your region” screen. That message is ESPN+’s way of enforcing its geo‑block policy, and it often shows up as an “ESPN app not working” or “ESPN location error.” Below you’ll find a quick guide to verify your location, check your subscription, troubleshoot common errors, and find a reliable VPN that keeps the games streaming.
How to Check Your Device and VPN Settings
- Verify your device’s location – Open your phone or TV’s location settings and set it to “High Accuracy.” For smart TVs, select “United States” in the region menu.
- Disable any VPN or proxy – Turn off all VPN apps and clear any proxy settings.
- Check your internet connection – Switch to a different Wi‑Fi network or use cellular data to rule out network‑level blocks.
- Confirm your ESPN+ subscription – Log into the ESPN+ web portal, click Account → Subscription. Make sure you’re on a tier that includes the content you want.
- Restart the app – Close ESPN+ completely, then relaunch it.
Troubleshooting Flowchart
- If you see “espn plus not available in your region”
- ⬇️ Check that your device location is set correctly.
- ⬇️ Make sure no VPN is active.
- ⬇️ Verify your subscription tier matches the content.
- ⬇️ If the error persists, try a different Wi‑Fi network.
- ⬇️ If you’re still stuck, contact ESPN+ support for account‑specific help.
Recommended VPNs for ESPN+
- Forest VPN – Offers a dedicated “Sports” profile, reliable servers in the U.S., and a simple setup on all major platforms.
- Other reputable VPN providers – Look for services that regularly update their server lists, support streaming, and offer a “US server” option. Avoid free or untrusted VPNs, which are often blocked by ESPN+.
Quick FAQ: All Your Location‑Related Questions Answered
Q1: Can I watch ESPN+ abroad? A1: Officially, ESPN+ is licensed only in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Using a VPN to access it from elsewhere violates ESPN+’s Terms of Use and can lead to account suspension. For legal streaming, stick to a supported region or a subscription that includes international coverage.
Q2: Why does the app say “not allowed”? A2: That error shows if your device’s IP or GPS is outside the territories or if your account is set to a country. It’s ESPN+’s way of enforcing licensing agreements, like a referee calling a timeout.
Q3: Will ESPN+ block my VPN? A3: ESPN+ blocks many VPN IP ranges. Choose a provider that updates its server list regularly. Connect to a U.S. server, open the app; if the message persists, switch servers or try a different VPN.
Q4: Do I need a separate VPN for each device? A4: If your VPN offers “Unlimited Devices,” you can use one account on multiple devices. Otherwise, install the VPN app on each device or set up a router‑level VPN to cover everything.
Q5: How do I verify my subscription tier? A5: Log into the ESPN+ web portal, click Account → Subscription. The plan (Basic, Premium, etc.) is displayed. If it shows “Basic” but you’re trying to watch premium content, upgrade through the portal or the app. Remember to receive the confirmation email before you start.
Q6: What should I do if the app says “ESPN app not working”? A6: First, clear the app cache or reinstall. On Android, go to Settings → Apps → ESPN+ → Storage → Clear Cache. On iOS, delete the app and reinstall from the App Store. Then reconnect to your VPN and sign in again.
Q7: How can I confirm my device’s location is accurate? A7: Open the device’s location settings and set it to “High Accuracy.” For phones, enable GPS; for smart TVs, select “United States” in the region menu. A mis‑set location is like a GPS stuck on a different city—ESPN+ will refuse to play.
Q8: What if I’m still stuck after trying everything? A8: Contact ESPN+ support with your account details and the error screenshot. Meanwhile, try a different VPN server or switch to a provider with a dedicated “Sports” profile. If the issue persists, it may be a temporary licensing pause; wait 15–30 minutes and retry.
Feel free to reach out to our support team or try Forest VPN today—your ticket to uninterrupted sports streaming.