How to Bypass Amazon Prime Video Unavailable Message
Learn why Amazon Prime shows the 'video unavailable in your location' error and how to use VPNs, region settings, or local Prime subscriptions to watch titles.

amazon prime this video is currently unavailable in your location
We’ve all seen that moment: a brand‑new season drops, you hit play, and the screen flashes a cryptic warning – amazon prime this video is currently unavailable in your location. That line tells you Amazon’s regional licensing system is blocking the title because it isn’t licensed for your country.
Why the block happens
Amazon Prime Video uses your IP address to determine which country you’re accessing from. If the content isn’t licensed for that region, the service will block it. Two main reasons for this:
- Prime Video regional restrictions – Studios sell rights separately in each market, so a blockbuster in the U.S. may be unavailable in Mexico.
- Geoblocking – Amazon enforces the licensing rules by checking your IP against its database.
How to spot the problem
- Open the Amazon Prime Video website or app.
- Search for the title you want.
- If the title is unavailable, you’ll see the amazon prime this video is currently unavailable in your location message.
- Check the Amazon Prime availability map (see the link below) to see which countries can access the title.
Screenshot of the account settings page: In the app, go to Account & Settings → Your Devices → Location to confirm your current region.
Legal workarounds
- VPN – A VPN can mask your IP address and make it appear as if you’re browsing from a different country.
- Change account region – If you’re a permanent resident of another country, you can update your account region in the settings.
- Local Prime subscription – Some countries have their own Prime Video service with a local library.
Forest VPN – a practical, affordable option
Forest VPN offers:
- Fast, reliable connections with servers in 30+ countries.
- Plans starting at $4.99/month, with a free trial.
- Strict no‑logs policy and strong encryption.
- Easy‑to‑use mobile and desktop apps.
Testimonial – “With Forest VPN I could finally watch my favorite US shows while in Spain without buffering. It was simple to set up and kept my data safe.” – Maria, Spain
Costs and tax implications
- VPN subscription: $4.99/month (Forest VPN) vs $6.99/month for a premium plan.
- Local Prime subscription: varies by country; for example, $8.99/month in the U.S. and $7.99/month in the U.K.
- Tax: Some regions add VAT or sales tax to the subscription price.
Quick checklist
- Verify your current region in the account settings.
- Look up the title on the Amazon Prime availability map.
- If unavailable, choose a VPN like Forest VPN, set the server to a country where the title is available, and retry.
- Consider subscribing to a local Prime if you’re staying long‑term.
Want to learn more?
- Read our [VPN usage guide] (#vpn-usage-guide) for step‑by‑step instructions on setting up Forest VPN.
- Compare streaming services in our [Streaming service comparison guide] (#streaming-service-comparison).
Call to action
Try Forest VPN today and unlock your favorite Amazon Prime content worldwide. Sign up now and enjoy a free trial!
Amazon Prime: This video is currently unavailable in your location
The Global Puzzle: How Amazon Licenses Content by Country
That old message—“Amazon Prime: This video is currently unavailable in your location”—is a familiar sight for many of us. It’s the tip‑off that Amazon’s licensing puzzle is still very much a mystery. Every title is a piece that only fits in certain countries. Why? Because studios, broadcasters, and regulators each hand out a different key. Let’s break down how Amazon negotiates these keys and what that means for you.
Key topics include Prime Video regional restrictions, how to watch Prime Video abroad, and an Amazon Prime availability map.
Studio Negotiations
Picture studios as chefs deciding which dishes can travel to which kitchen. A blockbuster like The Crown might be sold to the U.K. and Germany, but the same rights stay in-house for the U.S. Amazon’s content managers keep a close eye on every license, making sure each title’s territorial limits are crystal clear. When a new series launches, Amazon negotiates a slate of territories that balances cost against projected viewership. Key steps include:
- Scoping global demand through view‑count data.
- Drafting territory‑specific contracts.
- Reviewing local ratings and censorship guidelines.
- Finalizing payment terms and exclusivity clauses.
Broadcast Rights
Broadcast rights are the lifeblood of Amazon’s library. In many markets, a local TV network already owns the rights to a hit show. Amazon has to buy a streaming‑only license, which often comes at a premium. Take the U.S. sitcom Friends: it’s available on Prime Video worldwide, but the original broadcast rights in Brazil are held by Rede Globo, limiting Amazon’s ability to stream the show there without a separate deal.
Local Regulations
Local content laws can turn a simple upload into a legal maze. Countries like India require a certain percentage of locally produced content, while others enforce censorship filters. Amazon’s compliance officers work closely with regulators to ensure every title meets the local rating and content guidelines. When a title is flagged, Amazon either removes it or negotiates a compliance plan. Did you know that in France, a film must undergo a 15‑minute review before it can stream?
Evolving Agreements
Licensing isn’t static. Contracts expire, viewership trends shift, and new streaming wars intensify. Amazon periodically renegotiates or expands its catalog. A prime example is the U.S. series The Office, which was absent in Mexico for years because a Mexican broadcaster held the rights. In 2023, Amazon secured a streaming‑only license, and the show now streams in Mexico, illustrating how agreements evolve.
Series | US Availability | Mexico Availability | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
The Office | ✔ | ❌ | Mexican broadcaster holds rights |
Stranger Things | ✔ | ✔ | Amazon secured global license |
The Crown | ✔ | ✔ | Global streaming license |
Inside Amazon’s Legal & Content Teams
Amazon’s legal and content teams are the unsung heroes behind the scenes. Public statements from Amazon’s content leadership highlight the company’s commitment to “tailoring content to local tastes while respecting rights.” Their work ensures that the catalog remains both legally sound and culturally relevant.
Quick Checklist for Accessing Amazon Prime Internationally
- Verify local availability on Amazon’s website or a reputable third‑party tool.
- Consider using a reputable VPN to bypass geographic restrictions.
- Check for any additional subscription fees or tax implications in your region.
- Keep your device’s time zone and language settings aligned with the region you are accessing.
- Review Amazon’s terms of service to ensure compliance.
How Forest VPN Helps You Access Amazon Prime Internationally
Forest VPN offers a reliable, affordable solution for viewers who want to bypass regional restrictions on Amazon Prime Video. With servers in over 60 countries, you can instantly connect to a U.S. or U.K. IP address and enjoy the full Prime library. Forest VPN’s privacy‑first approach ensures your browsing data stays encrypted and untracked.
“I was able to stream my favorite shows from the U.S. library without any buffering, thanks to Forest VPN.” – Alex, avid streamer
Practical usage tips:
- Choose the nearest server to your physical location for the best speeds.
- Enable the “Prime Video” preset if available; it automatically selects an optimal server.
- Keep the VPN app updated to benefit from the latest performance improvements.
- If you experience buffering, switch to a different server or use the “Smart Connect” feature.
Call‑to‑Action: Try Forest VPN today and unlock Amazon Prime worldwide. Sign up now for a risk‑free trial and experience seamless streaming.
FAQ
- Does Prime Video work in Mexico? Amazon Prime Video is available in Mexico, but the U.S. library may be restricted unless you use a VPN or subscribe to a local plan.
- Can I watch the U.S. library abroad? Yes, using a reputable VPN such as Forest VPN can allow you to access U.S. content while traveling.
- Are there any charges for using a VPN with Amazon Prime? VPN subscriptions are separate from Amazon Prime; however, many VPN providers offer free trials or low‑cost plans.
Related Guides
amazon prime this video is currently unavailable in your location
We’ve charted Prime Video’s reach like a treasure map, revealing where you can grab the stream‑only or full‑benefits tiers. amazon prime this video is currently unavailable in your location. Wonder which countries have the full Prime bundle and which only offer the video service? Below, we break it down by launch year, local price, and key perks, so you can spot your region at a glance.
Availability Snapshot
Country | Launch Year | Local Price (USD) | Tier | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
United States | 2005 | $14.99 | Full | Free shipping, Prime Video, Music, Kindle |
United Kingdom | 2007 | $10.90 | Full | Free shipping, Video, Music |
Germany | 2007 | $8.60 | Full | Free shipping, Video |
Canada | 2013 | $6.00 | Full | Free shipping, Video |
Mexico | 2016 | $4.00 | Streaming‑only | Video only, no shipping |
Australia | 2018 | $6.50 | Full | Free shipping, Video |
Brazil | 2019 | $3.00 | Streaming‑only | Video only |
India | 2016 | $1.80–$18.00 | Tiered | Free shipping, Video, Music |
Japan | 2007 | $4.74 | Full | Free shipping, Video |
Singapore | 2017 | $6.00 | Full | Free shipping, Video |
South Africa | 2020 | $2.50 | Streaming‑only | Video only |
Chile | 2021 | $3.50 | Streaming‑only | Video only |
Note: Prices are rounded to the nearest cent and may vary with exchange rates. The table is meant to illustrate current availability; always confirm details on Amazon’s official site.
How to Read the Table
- Tier tells you whether the subscription includes free shipping and other Prime perks or just streaming. Think of it as the difference between a full‑service car and a rental car that only drives.
- Local Price is the monthly cost you’ll see on the checkout page, not the US price. Prices often drop in countries with lower living costs.
- Launch Year indicates how long Prime has been available in that market; older markets often have richer local libraries.
If a country shows Streaming‑only, you can still enjoy Prime Video, but you’ll need a separate Prime membership for shipping or music. For example, Mexico’s $4.00 plan gives you video, but no free shipping. If you’re a frequent traveler, you might consider a tiered plan in India that offers both.
Quick Interpretation Cheat‑Sheet
- Full tier → All Prime perks.
- Streaming‑only → Video only.
- Tiered → Choose between lower‑cost streaming or higher‑cost full benefits.
- Launch Year → Older markets have more titles.
Want to see a visual map? The map graphic is available in the downloadable PDF accompanying this guide.
Using a VPN for International Access
If you plan to travel or want to access Prime Video from abroad, a reliable VPN can help you stay connected. Forest VPN offers secure, affordable connections with a no‑logging policy, making it easy to enjoy Prime Video while protecting your privacy.
What’s Next?
We’ll dive into how to switch your region or use a VPN safely in the next section, so stay tuned to make the most of your Prime experience across borders.
amazon prime this video is currently unavailable in your location
Seeing the phrase “amazon prime this video is currently unavailable in your location” tells you that the title’s license doesn’t line up with the country you’re in. Follow this step‑by‑step browser check to confirm your region and explore legal options, including using Forest VPN.
Checking Your Own Availability
1. Log In and Open Prime Video
Go to Amazon.com, click the Prime icon, and sign in with your account. The personalized home feed loads. If you’re on a shared device, double‑check that the correct account is active.
2. Search for the Title
Type the show or movie name into the search bar. On the result page, click the title to open its details. If the content is blocked, a banner will display the phrase again.
3. Verify Your Region Settings
Open your account icon → Your Account → Your Content and Devices. Look for the Country/Region field. This tells Amazon which catalog it pulls from. If it shows a different country than where you actually live, that’s the culprit.
4. Quick Troubleshooting
- Clear cache: Your browser may still remember an old location. Clearing cookies can help.
- Incognito mode: Open a private window and repeat the steps; this bypasses stored data.
- VPN test: If you suspect IP masking, temporarily enable a VPN in a country that offers the title, then re‑check.
5. Interpreting the Error
The banner means the title isn’t licensed in the selected region. It’s not a technical glitch; it’s a legal restriction. The same content may appear in a neighboring country’s catalog.
6. What to Do Next
- Change your account region if you have a valid local payment method.
- Subscribe to a local Prime for full compliance.
- Use Forest VPN if you’re comfortable with the risk of a temporary ban. Forest VPN offers a user‑friendly interface, affordable plans, and a wide range of servers, making it easy to access content legally from abroad.
Quick Reference Checklist
- Verify your country setting.
- Clear cache or use incognito.
- Test with a VPN in a different region.
- Decide on a permanent fix—region change or local subscription.
- Keep an eye on device limits.
FAQ
Q: Does Prime Video work in Mexico? A: Prime Video is available in Mexico, but the library differs from the U.S. catalog. Use the steps above to confirm availability.
Q: Can I watch the U.S. library abroad? A: Technically yes, but it requires changing your account region or using a VPN. Forest VPN can help you connect to a U.S. server while staying compliant with Amazon’s terms.
Q: Will using a VPN violate Amazon Prime terms? A: Amazon’s policy discourages VPN use for region‑locked content. If you choose to use a VPN, do so at your own risk and be aware of potential account restrictions.
Next Steps
Explore our guide on VPN usage for detailed instructions on setting up Forest VPN, and check out our streaming service comparison guide to see how Prime Video stacks up against other platforms.
amazon prime this video is currently unavailable in your location: Legal Workarounds—VPN, Region Changes, and Local Prime
Ever hit that annoying “unavailable in your location” message and felt like you were stuck in a digital border? That phrase—amazon prime this video is currently unavailable in your location—is a common roadblock for travelers. This guide explains the three main legal methods to access desired content: using a VPN, changing your account region, or subscribing to a local Prime plan. We’ll compare each approach with pros, cons, and risk levels and highlight why Forest VPN is a cost‑effective, reliable solution.
Overview of Amazon Prime Video Regional Licensing
Amazon Prime Video’s library varies by country due to regional licensing agreements. The availability of titles depends on local broadcasters, distributors, and Amazon’s own agreements.
Region | Availability | Local Library | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
United States | ✅ | Full US library | Highest content volume |
United Kingdom | ✅ | UK library | Some US titles missing |
Germany | ✅ | German library | Different titles |
Canada | ✅ | Canadian library | US titles may appear later |
Mexico | ✅ | Mexican library | Lower content volume |
Amazon Prime availability map – View a visual map of content availability by region on our website.
Step‑by‑step Guide to Checking Availability
- Visit the Amazon Prime Video website or app.
- Search for the title.
- If you see amazon prime this video is currently unavailable in your location, the title is not in your region’s catalog.
- Use the third‑party tool “Prime Video Availability Checker” to confirm.
Legal Workarounds
1. VPN: The Fast‑Track Pass
A VPN routes your traffic through a foreign server, making it look like you’re in that country. Forest VPN offers a no‑log policy and servers in 70+ key locations, so you can pick a city close to you and keep latency low.
- Pros: Instant access, no need to change account settings, works on any device.
- Cons: Some streaming sites detect VPNs; risk of temporary suspension.
- Risk level: Medium.
Choosing the Right Server
Pick the server nearest to your physical location to reduce lag. Use the app’s “Smart Connect” feature to auto‑select the fastest node. After connecting, run a DNS leak test—sites like dnsleaktest.com can confirm you’re not leaking your real IP.
2. Account Region: A Legal Switcheroo
Changing your Amazon account’s country setting lets you view the catalog of that region. You’ll need a local payment method, and the price may change with local taxes.
- Pros: Full compliance, no risk of bans.
- Cons: Requires a new credit card or bank account.
- Risk level: Low.
3. Local Prime: The Home‑Base Option
Subscribing to Prime in the country you’re visiting gives you full access to the local library. Prices vary—$4 in Mexico, $8 in the UK—so you can budget accordingly.
- Pros: No VPN detection, fully legal.
- Cons: You’re limited to that country’s content.
- Risk level: Very low.
Comparing the Paths
Method | Speed | Cost | Legal Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
VPN (Forest) | High | $10/month | Medium |
Region Change | Medium | Varies | Low |
Local Prime | Medium | Local price | Very low |
Testimonial "I was in Tokyo and wanted the new Stranger Things season. Forest VPN let me stream the U.S. library without a hitch. The interface was so simple, and I didn’t even notice a pause. Highly recommend for travelers!" – Maya, 32, globetrotter.
Practical Usage Tips
- Pick the nearest server to keep buffering to a minimum.
- Check DNS leaks after connecting; a leak means your real location is exposed.
- Keep your app updated—newer versions often improve speed and security.
- Use a dedicated device for streaming; this reduces the chance of accidental IP leaks.
Quick Checklist
- Verify title availability on Amazon’s site.
- Choose a legal workaround that fits your budget.
- Set up and test your VPN or account region.
- Perform a DNS leak test.
- Enjoy uninterrupted streaming.
Forest VPN Advantage
Forest VPN’s no‑log policy means your browsing history stays private. With 70+ servers, you can always find a nearby node, and the user‑friendly interface makes switching servers a breeze. Plus, at just $10/month, it’s a cost‑effective alternative to buying a local Prime subscription in every country you visit.
Next Steps
Decide which method aligns with your travel style and budget. Ready to start? Visit our VPN usage guide or check out our streaming service comparison. Try Forest VPN today and enjoy uninterrupted streaming wherever you go.
When you cross borders, the price tag on Amazon Prime Video can shift faster than a currency converter. Ever wonder why a Canadian expat might see a different bill in the U.S. than back home? The mix of local taxes, subscription tiers, and device limits is the culprit. Let’s unpack it.
Amazon pulls your billing address automatically and adds the right VAT or GST to the base fee. In Canada that’s a 5–15 % HST, which can push a $6.00 plan to almost $7.00. In the U.S. there’s no tax, so the $14.99 stays flat. In the U.S., the price feels costly when you compare it to the Canadian plan.
Every region caps concurrent streams at three devices—think of it like a library limiting checkouts. That’s why a single account can’t be shared across a family spread across continents.
Country | Monthly Base | Local VAT/GST | Total (USD) | Devices |
|---|---|---|---|---|
United States | $14.99 | 0% | $14.99 | 3 |
Canada | CAD 6.00 | 5–15 % HST | ≈$7.30 | 3 |
United Kingdom | £10.90 (~$13.30) | 20% VAT | ≈$16.00 | 3 |
Germany | €8.60 (~$9.90) | 19% VAT | ≈$11.70 | 3 |
Mexico | MXN 400 (~$20.00) | 16% VAT | ≈$23.20 | 3 |
Meet Alex, a Toronto‑born software engineer who moved to Austin. He used to pay CAD 6.00 plus 13 % HST—about USD 7.30—each month. Switching to a U.S. plan for $14.99 cut his bill to USD 14.99, a 41 % saving at 1.35 exchange. Alex now streams on three devices, just like any U.S. user.
If you’re traveling and need to access Prime Video from abroad, Forest VPN offers reliable, affordable connections that help you bypass regional restrictions. Try Forest VPN today and enjoy seamless streaming anywhere.
These numbers show that taxes and device limits can tip the balance when you’re abroad. In the next section, we’ll see how a VPN can smooth those bumps.
Quick Checklist & Call to Action: Get Started with Forest VPN Today
Got that “amazon prime this video is currently unavailable in your location” message? Forest VPN can help you get past it in just a few minutes. Here’s a bite‑sized checklist to get you streaming on Amazon Prime fast.
- Verify your current location.
- Pick the right country in the VPN.
- Connect to a fast, low‑latency server.
- Clear your browser cache.
- Open the Amazon Prime app and enjoy.
- Keep an eye on your subscription and billing.
Below is a quick visual guide that shows how long each step usually takes.
Step | Action | Time |
|---|---|---|
1 | Verify location | 30 s |
2 | Pick server | 15 s |
3 | Connect | 10 s |
4 | Clear cache | 20 s |
5 | Stream | 0 s |
Now that you know the steps, why not give Forest VPN a try? They’re offering a 14‑day free trial and a 20 % discount for the first year. No credit card needed to start, and the setup takes under two minutes. Imagine streaming without borders—every show, every time.
“Forest VPN made my streaming experience lightning‑fast and hassle‑free. I switched in seconds and never looked back.” – Emily R., London
Last week, a friend in Tokyo used Forest VPN to watch a live sports event that was only available in the UK. Within 15 seconds, the stream was up, and the connection stayed stable even during peak hours.
Privacy matters. Forest VPN runs a strict no‑log policy, so your browsing history stays just that—yours.
Managing your subscription is simple. You can pause, upgrade, or cancel anytime from the mobile app, with no hidden fees.
We also provide a quick installation guide that takes less than a minute.
- AES‑256 encryption keeps data safe.
- No‑log policy means no data stored.
- Kill switch stops leaks instantly.
- 2FA adds extra protection.
Step 1: Download the app. Step 2: Install with a single click. Step 3: Log in and connect. Done!
Try Forest VPN today, start your free trial, and feel the difference. Your next binge session awaits.