The European Union (EU) has revised the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD) and it can a major impact for Netflix subscribers. According to the updated law, all streaming sites located in the EU must have at least 30% of their content produced in Europe.
Use a VPN If You Still Want US Content on Netflix
While this doesn’t necessarily mean that Netflix will be dropping all their US produced content to make the quota, it’s a safe bet that they will be slower to add new content to the EU Netflix libraries. What makes this even more difficult is each EU member state has the option to up the quota to at least 40% locally produced content. While local content is great, it’s a shame if it comes at the expense at other quality content that is available on Netflix elsewhere. A VPN is the easiest solution to this problem. By connecting with a US server on a VPN that can beat the Netflix block, you will instantly get all the same quality content as your US counterparts.
This Law Affects More than Just Netflix
Thankfully, by utilizing a premium VPN service that works around Netflix geo-restrictions, you’ll still be able to access your favorite content from around the world. Simply connect to your VPN and choose a server in another location.
Do You Need a VPN if You Are Visiting the EU?
Many sites won’t let you on once you are outside of the country. By spoofing your location to look like you are back home, you gain access to all the sites you want to visit. Of course, most people don’t want to pay for a premium subscription just to take a vacation. Thankfully, most of the best programs come with a money-back guarantee that lasts at least 30 days. If you won’t be gone longer than that, nothing is stopping you from getting a refund after your trip. Of course, we recommend using a VPN, even after you get home. It keeps you protected and secure from your ISP, government and other companies that currently spy on you.
3 Best VPNs to Watch Netflix from the EU
1ExpressVPN – Fastest Servers in Europe
There’s no question that ExpressVPN is one of the most stable VPN providers in Europe. They support many languages and offer some of the fastest speeds. You have access to servers in 49 different countries within Europe and they all support OpenVPN, PPTP, and IKEv2 protocols. There are no download or bandwidth restrictions, so streaming isn’t an issue. They also have the technology to get around all the geo-blocks imposed by sites such as Netflix. With their split tunneling feature, stream the local channels while accessing content from far away. They also provide 256-bit AES security, DNS leak protect, and a kill switch. Try out the service with their 30-day money-back guarantee. Try Now Risk Free
2NordVPN – a Top Choice for Europe
NordVPN currently utilizes more than 2,000 servers in 38 countries, plus they have a host of worldwide servers at your disposal. They even support most major European language. Most of the servers offer what you need for P2P activities. With fast speeds, superior encryption, and ability to work around geo-blocks, you have the chance to torrent, stream, or simply surf with the protection you require. The reason users continue to trust NordVPN is that they offer superior security. The service uses 2048-bit AES encryption, a double VPN feature, DNS leak protection, and CyberSec. They also don’t keep any logs on users and you receive the confidence of a 30-day money-back guarantee. Start Watching Now
3CyberGhost VPN – Longer Guarantee
CyberGhost VPN has access to more than 1,800 servers throughout 34 countries in Europe. That makes it easy to find one that fits your needs. They even have support in all the major European languages. With seven simultaneous connections available, your entire family can access content at once. Plus, CyberGhost effectively unblocks Netflix in other countries. They even supply dedicated servers for torrenting and file sharing. CyberGhost utilizes 256-bit encryption, OpenVPN protocol, an automatic kill switch, plus DNS leak protection. They even offer a 45-day money-back guarantee which is more than most companies. Try Now Risk Free
Other Reasons to use a VPN in the EU
Of course, there are other reasons to utilize a VPN if you live in the EU. The VPN secures your Internet connection. By changing your IP address, you protect your privacy. This not only allows you to torrent safely, but it also allows you access to online content from anywhere in the world. No matter what you do online, a VPN protects you from cybercriminals. Do your banking with peace of mind and utilize the local Wi-Fi hotspot without worrying about hackers. Here are some things to look for in a VPN for the EU:
Lots of servers – not just in Europe, but throughout the world. This allows you to access content from anywhere. Fast speeds Stable connections No download or bandwidth limitations Allows torrenting – Not every VPN supports this activity Access to servers in the United States – if you want to access Netflix USA or Hulu. Easy to use – simple downloads, easy to understand instructions and one-click apps. Supportive customer service
Final Thoughts
If you plan to visit Netflix and other streaming sites while in the EU, your selection is about to be diminished. The newest laws require that these companies supply at least 30% of the content from the UK. Some of your favorite shows might not be available tomorrow. That’s why you want to use a premium VPN and connect to Netflix in another country for a broader selection of entertainment choices.
