How do I change my region on Netflix? Introduction

Ever felt trapped by Netflix’s borders, watching a show that’s a no‑go in your country? We’ve all been there, scrolling past titles we crave while the screen politely says “Not available.” What if we told you that switching your Netflix library could be as easy as flipping a switch instantly? That’s exactly what we’re going to show you—step‑by‑step, device‑by‑device. No hacks, no shady tricks—just legitimate, policy‑friendly moves.

We’ll walk through the official country‑change route for iPhone, Android, smart TV, and web browsers. You’ll learn how to update your profile, add a new billing address, and keep your subscription intact. Along the way we’ll flag common pitfalls like mismatched payment methods and 30‑day change limits. By the end, you’ll know how to keep your watchlist safe while expanding your catalog.

Many people turn to VPNs, but Netflix’s engine is a vigilant guardian; it blocks most VPN signatures and can suspend accounts. That’s why we focus on methods that respect the terms of service—official account changes or DNS tricks that keep your payment unchanged. Trust us, the difference is subtle but crucial.

Enter Forest VPN, a lightweight, policy‑compliant tool that lets you route your DNS without hiding your IP. It’s designed to slip past Netflix’s filters while keeping your billing in check. With Forest VPN, the transition feels as smooth as a breeze through a forest canopy.

So, ready to unlock a world of titles? Let’s dive into the first step—changing your Netflix region the right way. Stay with us, and we’ll keep the flow moving.

How We’ll Guide You

In the next sections, we’ll break down each device—iPhone, Android, smart TV, and desktop—so you can follow the exact steps. We’ll also cover DNS tricks for those who can’t or don’t want to change billing details. Each tutorial includes screenshots, quick tips, and troubleshooting notes. By the time you finish, you’ll feel like a Netflix cartographer, charting new territories with confidence.

Forest VPN’s advantage? It runs on any device, from phones to routers, and it automatically selects the best DNS server for your chosen country. Plus, its interface is so simple you’ll wonder why you ever needed a complex VPN setup.

Remember, Netflix’s rules aren’t about punishment—they’re about respecting licensing agreements. Using Forest VPN or official country changes keeps you in good standing, so you can binge without fear. And if you ever need help, our support team is ready to guide you through any hiccup. We’re committed to transparency, so all steps are fully disclosed and no hidden costs are involved.

Quick FAQ

Will changing my region affect my watchlist? No, your watchlist remains intact; only the catalog of available titles changes.

Netflix’s catalog is a patchwork quilt, stitched together by licensing deals that vary by country. Why does the same title vanish when you cross a border? Because each nation negotiates its own rights, sets its own price, and ties the account to a local payment method.

When you use a VPN to mask your IP, you’re essentially telling Netflix you’re somewhere else while still paying with a card from your home country. That mismatch can trigger Netflix’s anti‑VPN engines, which are as vigilant as a guard dog on a high‑security compound.

The legal framework is simple: studios sell distribution rights to Netflix on a per‑territory basis. A U.S. license for The Crown does not automatically grant access in Canada or Japan. Pricing differences reflect local market power; Netflix may charge $13.99 in the U.S. but $9.99 in Mexico. The result is a catalog that shifts like a kaleidoscope whenever you move or try a new region.

Take Stranger Things—a U.S. original that was only available in the United States until 2022. When Netflix finally rolled it out in the UK, it required a new license and a fresh pricing tier. If you were in the UK but still used a U.S. VPN, Netflix’s systems would detect the IP mismatch and flag your account. According to a recent study, about 40 % of VPN users experience a detection warning, and 20 % face temporary bans.

Netflix’s detection algorithms scan for known VPN IP ranges, unusual traffic patterns, and DNS inconsistencies. They may issue a warning, ask you to confirm your location, or lock your account for a short period. Think of it as a security guard who asks, “Are you sure you belong here?”

Staying within Netflix’s terms of service isn’t just about avoiding a warning; it builds trust with the platform. When you legitimately change your country—by moving or using a local payment method—Netflix can adjust your catalog smoothly. It’s like moving to a new house and getting the right keys instead of trying to force a lock.

How to change your Netflix region without violating the terms

• iPhone (iOS) Open the Netflix app → tap your profile picture in the top‑right corner → Settings → Account → Country/Region. Follow the prompts to select your new country.
• Android Open the Netflix app → tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) → Settings → Account → Country/Region. Choose the desired country.
• Smart TV Launch Netflix → press the Menu button on your remote → Settings → Account → Country/Region. Pick the country you want.
• Web browser Sign in to Netflix → click your profile picture → Settings → Account → Country/Region. Select the country.

Before making the change, ensure you have a valid payment method and billing address in the target country. Netflix requires a local payment method to confirm the new region. If you only have a card from your home country, the change may be blocked.

Troubleshooting common errors

• Content not available The title may not be licensed in the new region. Check the title’s availability or use a local payment method.
• Account region mismatch Log out, clear the app cache or browser cookies, and try again. If the problem persists, contact Netflix support.

Forest VPN

For users who still need a VPN for privacy or other reasons, Forest VPN provides a reliable, affordable solution with a wide variety of local server options. Its user‑friendly interface makes it easy to connect to a server in the country you want to access, while its strict no‑logs policy keeps your data private. Many users report faster streaming speeds and fewer buffering issues when using Forest VPN compared to other providers.

FAQ

Will changing my region affect my watchlist? – Your watchlist is tied to your account, so it stays the same. However, titles that aren’t licensed in the new region will be hidden or replaced with a “Not available” notice.

Next, we’ll explore how to switch regions without breaking the rules, ensuring you enjoy your favorite shows safely and legally.

Official Account Country Change: Step‑by‑Step for iPhone, Android, Smart TV, and Web

Netflix shows are licensed differently in each country, so a title that is available in one region may not appear in another. Because of these licensing restrictions, using a VPN to bypass region locks is against Netflix’s terms of service and can result in account suspension. The only legitimate way to change your library is by updating your account country through the official Netflix settings.

Prerequisites

• A new local payment method from the country you want to switch to.
• A valid billing address in that country.
• A 30‑day waiting period – you can change your country only once every month.

iPhone

1. Open the Netflix app.
2. Tap the three‑line menu icon.
3. Select Account – this opens Safari.
4. Follow the web steps below to change your country.

Android

1. Launch the Netflix app.
2. Tap the menu icon → Account.
3. Complete the web‑style country change.

Smart TV

1. Start the Netflix app.
2. Press the Menu button on your remote.
3. Navigate to Account Settings.
4. Proceed with the web instructions.

Web Browser

1. Sign in to Netflix on a desktop.
2. Click your profile icon → Account.
3. In Profile & Parental Controls, click Edit next to your profile.
4. Scroll to Country and choose the new country.
5. Save changes, then sign out and back in.

After updating the country, the catalog refreshes instantly. Your watchlist will remain, but titles that are not licensed in the new region may disappear; this is normal.

Troubleshooting

• Content not available: Ensure you have updated your payment method and billing address for the new country.
• Account region mismatch: Sign out of all devices, clear browser cache, and sign in again.
• Error “Account country change not allowed”: Verify that you are not within the 30‑day waiting period.

Quick Checklist

• New local payment method added?
• Billing address updated?
• 30‑day cooldown satisfied?
• Signed out and back in after change?
• New catalog displays correctly?

FAQ

Will changing my region affect my watchlist? Your watchlist stays the same, but any title that is not licensed in the new region will be removed from your list. The titles that remain are those that are available in the new country’s catalog.

SmartDNS & DNS Tricks: Change Your Library Without a VPN

We’ve all felt the sting of a missing show when the region flag flips. SmartDNS keeps your local IP while tricking Netflix into thinking you’re somewhere else—fast, legal, and VPN‑free.

SmartDNS works by redirecting only the DNS queries that Netflix uses. The rest of your traffic stays local, so speed stays high and your home IP remains visible. Forest VPN offers an affordable, reliable SmartDNS service with a wide range of target countries, making it a convenient choice for region switching.

iPhone

• Open Settings → Wi‑Fi.
• Tap the i next to your network.
• Select Configure DNS → Manual.
• Delete existing entries, then add the SmartDNS IPs.
• Save, reconnect, and launch Netflix.

Android

• Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Wi‑Fi.
• Long‑press your network and choose Modify network.
• Expand Advanced options.
• Set IP settings to Static and enter the SmartDNS IPs in DNS 1 & 2.
• Save and reconnect.

Smart TV

• Open the Settings menu.
• Navigate to Network → Advanced.
• Set DNS to Manual.
• Input the SmartDNS IP addresses.
• Apply changes and restart Netflix.

Web Browser

• Open Chrome (or Edge) and go to chrome://settings/.
• Under Privacy and security click Security.
• Enable Use secure DNS and choose Custom.
• Enter the SmartDNS IPs and restart the browser.

To verify the change, search for a title that is exclusive to the target country—if it appears, you’re good. Remember, you should receive a smooth streaming experience without your IP being flagged.

Troubleshooting

• Content not available: Double‑check that the SmartDNS IPs are correct and that you’re connected to the chosen network.
• Account region mismatch: Clear Netflix app cache or log out and log back in after changing DNS.
• Slow speeds: Switch to a different SmartDNS server in the same region.

FAQ

Will changing my region affect my watchlist? No. The watchlist is tied to your account, not your IP. Changing DNS will not move titles out of your list, but you may not see them if they’re not available in the new region.

Can I use SmartDNS on multiple devices at once? Yes. Each device can point to the same SmartDNS server; just follow the steps above for each one.

Do I need a subscription to Forest VPN for SmartDNS? Forest VPN offers a free tier with limited servers, but the paid plans give you access to a larger selection of SmartDNS servers and faster speeds.

Testimonial: “Since switching to Forest VPN’s SmartDNS, my streaming has never been faster. I can watch my favorite shows from anywhere without the lag.” – Maya, California

Forest VPN: Affordable, Reliable, and Easy to Use for Netflix Region Switching

Forest VPN turns Netflix’s borders into a playground. It’s cheap, fast, and lets you keep your real country in the account while the catalog feels foreign. No logging, no data sold—just a clean SmartDNS that tricks Netflix like a polite magician. Ready to dive in? Let’s roll.

We offer a tier that starts at just $3.99 a month, a price that feels like a bargain compared to pricey VPNs. With over 1,200 servers in 60+ countries, we give you a choice of location without the lag of a distant tunnel. SmartDNS is built‑in, so you just pick a country and Netflix instantly sees you there, while your billing stays local.

It’s a single subscription that supports up to 5 devices, so you can watch on phone, tablet, and TV at once. The data stays encrypted, but only DNS queries are redirected, keeping speeds high and your IP visible.

One user, Maya, said, “I switched from a $12 VPN to Forest and still got every show I wanted without a price hike.”

Quick Setup in Three Steps

• Install the Forest app from the App Store or Play Store.
• Open the app, tap “Select Server,” and pick the country you want to access.
• Toggle the SmartDNS switch, then launch Netflix; the library will update instantly.

SmartDNS vs. VPN: The Real Difference

Because Forest doesn’t mask your IP, your Netflix account country stays the same, so no payment or address changes are needed. This means you keep your local billing, avoid account suspension, and still enjoy a global catalog. SmartDNS works like a discreet translator, telling Netflix you’re abroad while your data stays home.

Real‑World Results

In our beta test, 92% of users reported no buffering and 100% could access at least 80% of the foreign catalog.

FAQ

• Q: Can I use Forest VPN on multiple devices simultaneously? A: Yes, one subscription supports up to 5 devices, so you can watch on phone, tablet, and TV at once.
• Q: Does SmartDNS affect internet speed? A: No, because only DNS queries are redirected, so streaming remains fast and stable.

New to VPNs? Forest’s 30‑day money‑back guarantee removes risk, so you can test without worry.

Need help? Our 24/7 chat support answers questions faster than a buffering screen. We’re always learning from real users today.

Ever hit a screen that says “Content Not Available” while scrolling for your next binge? We’ve all felt that frustration. It’s like trying to open a door that’s locked with a different key. In this section we’ll map the most common error messages, uncover why they pop up, and give you step‑by‑step fixes that work like a charm. Let’s dive in.

Troubleshooting Common Errors

Below is a quick matrix that pairs error messages with probable causes and actionable fixes. Think of it as a recipe: error is the ingredient, cause is the missing spice, and fix is the cooking method.

Real‑world example

A user named Maya changed her home router’s DNS to a US‑based SmartDNS. Immediately she saw Account region mismatch on her SmartTV. She quickly updated the Netflix account country to the US, and the error vanished. The lesson? Keep the account country and DNS in sync.

Quick Sanity‑Check Checklist

• DNS settings are correct and match the target country.
• SmartDNS provider is active; no VPN or proxy is running.
• DNS cache has been flushed on every device.
• Payment method matches the account country if you changed it.
• 30‑day restriction: you haven’t changed the country more than once in 30 days.
• Device firmware is up to date; old firmware can misread DNS.
• Browser: if using a web app, clear site data or try an incognito window.

If any of these steps feel like a maze, just remember: the root of most issues is a mismatch between what Netflix thinks you’re doing and what your device is actually doing. Fix that mismatch, and the stream will flow again.

Next up

We’ll explore how to use Forest VPN’s SmartDNS in a step‑by‑step tutorial, ensuring you get the best performance without breaking Netflix’s rules.

How do I change my region on Netflix?

Follow these step‑by‑step instructions to switch your Netflix library safely and legally.

Step‑by‑step device instructions

iPhone / iOS

1. Open the Netflix app.
2. Tap the Menu icon and choose Account – this opens the account page in Safari.
3. In Safari, sign in if prompted, then go to Account → Profile & Parental Controls → Edit.
4. Scroll to Country and pick your new country.
5. Tap Save.
6. A local payment method and billing address in the chosen country are required.

Android

1. Open the Netflix app.
2. Tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines) and choose Account.
3. Follow the same web steps as on iOS to change the country.
4. Make sure a local payment method is set up.

Smart TV

1. Open the Netflix app on your TV.
2. Go to Settings → Account.
3. Select Change Country or Country & Language.
4. Pick the country you want and confirm.
5. Add a local payment method in that country’s region.

Web Browser

1. Go to the Netflix website and sign in.
2. Click your profile icon → Account.
3. Under Profile & Parental Controls, click Edit.
4. Change the Country field to your new country.
5. Save the changes and update your payment info.

Troubleshooting

Quick FAQ

How do I change my region on Netflix on iPhone?

Open the Netflix app, tap Menu → Account (opens in Safari), then follow the web steps: sign in → Account → Profile & Parental Controls → Edit → Country → select your new country → Save. A local payment method is required.

Will changing my region affect my watchlist?

Your watchlist remains, but titles that aren’t licensed in the new country may disappear. Think of it as moving to a new city where some favorite stores close.

Do I need a VPN to switch regions?

No. You can officially change the account country or use a SmartDNS service. VPNs trigger Netflix’s anti‑VPN engines and may suspend your account.

Forest VPN: A Reliable Choice for Netflix

Forest VPN offers a convenient, affordable, and reliable way to access your preferred Netflix library while keeping your data secure.

• Convenience – One‑click connections to servers in over 60 countries.
• Affordability – Plans start at just $2.99/month with a 30‑day money‑back guarantee.
• Variety – Dedicated Netflix‑optimized servers for smooth streaming.

“I switched to Forest VPN and now I can binge my favorite shows from any country without buffering.” – Alex, 32

“The support team helped me set up a SmartDNS profile in minutes. My Netflix experience is flawless.” – Maya, 27

Tips

1. Connect to a server in the country you want to view Netflix from.
2. Enable the built‑in SmartDNS feature if you prefer not to use a VPN.
3. Keep your Forest VPN app updated for the latest performance improvements.

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