How to Watch HBO Max Outside the US in 2025 | Best VPNs & Methods

Introduction

HBO Max, now rebranded as Max, is one of the most popular streaming services in India, offering a vast collection of blockbuster movies, original HBO shows, and exclusive content from Warner Bros. Discovery. However, due to licensing agreements and content distribution rights, Max is officially available only in select countries and is geo-blocked outside the US.

If you try to access Max (formerly HBO Max) from outside the US, you might encounter errors like:

• “Max isn’t available in your region.”
• “Access Denied.”
• “This content is not available in your country.”

This guide will explain why HBO Max is restricted, the countries where it is officially available, and how you can safely bypass geo-restrictions to stream HBO Max from anywhere in the world in 2025.

Top VPNs That Work with HBO Max

1. NordVPN – Best Overall VPN for HBO Max

• Server Count: 6,400+ servers in 111 countries
• US Servers: 1,970+ across New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Dallas, and more
• Streaming Feature: SmartPlay technology for smooth streaming
• Speed & Performance: Uses NordLynx (WireGuard-based protocol) for faster streaming
• Security: AES-256 encryption, Threat Protection, and a strict no-log policy
• Devices Supported: 10 simultaneous connections
• Money-Back Guarantee: 30 days

 Why choose NordVPN?

• Fastest speeds for HD and 4K streaming
• Easily bypasses VPN blocks used by HBO Max
• Affordable 2-year plans with huge discounts

3. Surfshark – Best Budget VPN for HBO Max

• Server Count: 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
• US Servers: Available in 25+ cities
• Streaming Feature: Camouflage Mode (bypasses VPN detection)
• Speed & Performance: Uses WireGuard for better speed and stability
• Security: AES-256 encryption, CleanWeb (ad blocker)
• Devices Supported: Unlimited simultaneous connections
• Money-Back Guarantee: 30 days

Why choose Surfshark?

• Most affordable option for unlimited devices
• Works on Smart TVs, Firestick, Roku, and gaming consoles
• Great for families and multi-device users

2. ExpressVPN – Best for Consistency & Reliability

• Server Count: 3,000+ servers in 105 countries
• US Servers: 24+ locations, including New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Atlanta
• Streaming Feature: MediaStreamer (Smart DNS for streaming without VPN apps)
• Speed & Performance: Lightway protocol for fast and stable connections
• Security: No-logs policy, AES-256 encryption, RAM-only servers
• Devices Supported: 8 simultaneous connections
• Money-Back Guarantee: 30 days

Why choose ExpressVPN?

• Works seamlessly with HBO Max and other platforms (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+)
• High-speed servers prevent buffering in 4K resolution
• User-friendly apps for all devices

4. CyberGhost – Best for Beginners

• Server Count: 12,000+ servers in 100 countries
• US Servers: 1,400+ optimized for HBO Max, Netflix, Hulu
• Streaming Feature: Dedicated streaming servers
• Speed & Performance: Optimized for streaming, though slightly slower than NordVPN
• Security: AES-256 encryption, automatic kill switch
• Devices Supported: 7 simultaneous connections
• Money-Back Guarantee: 45 days (longest refund policy)

Why choose CyberGhost?

• Dedicated servers optimized for HBO Max
• Longest money-back guarantee (45 days)
• Easy to use, perfect for VPN beginners

Why is HBO Max Restricted Outside the US?

Licensing Agreements & Content Distribution Rights

Like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, Max is bound by licensing agreements with movie studios in India, TV networks, and content creators. These agreements restrict the availability of HBO Max content to certain countries.

For example, HBO’s flagship series “House of the Dragon” may be available on HBO Max in the US, but in the UK, it’s licensed to Sky Atlantic instead. Similarly, some Warner Bros. movies that stream on Max in the US might be available on Amazon Prime Video or Netflix in other countries.

How Geo-Restrictions Work

HBO Max detects users’ locations based on their IP addresses (a unique number assigned to your internet connection). When you try to access Max from an unsupported country, the system blocks you and displays a geo-restriction error.

To bypass this restriction, users often use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to change their IP address to a US location, tricking Max into thinking they are in the United States.

Countries Where HBO Max is Officially Available in 2025

As of February 2025, Max is officially available in the following regions:

• United States (including Puerto Rico & US territories)
• Latin America & Caribbean (Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, Colombia, etc.)
• Europe (Spain, Portugal, Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Central/Eastern Europe)
• Select Asian & Middle Eastern Markets (Limited availability)

However, Max is NOT available in Canada, the UK, Australia, or most of Asia due to existing licensing deals. Users in these regions must use alternative methods to access HBO Max content.

How to Watch HBO Max Outside the US (Updated 2025)

HBO Max, now rebranded as Max, is home to some of the best movies, TV shows, and exclusive Warner Bros. content. However, due to licensing agreements, it is only available in select regions, primarily the United States. If you’re outside the US, you’ll need a workaround to bypass geo-restrictions and enjoy your favorite shows.

This guide provides the most effective and up-to-date methods for watching HBO Max outside the US in 2025.

Best Methods to Watch HBO Max Outside the US

There are multiple ways to bypass HBO Max’s geo-restrictions, but not all methods are equally effective. Below are the most reliable options:

• Using a VPN (Most Effective)
• Using Smart DNS Services
• Using a Proxy Server (Limited Success)
• Using a Cloud PC Service

1. Using a VPN (Most Effective Method)

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the best and most reliable way to access HBO Max from anywhere. VPNs work by routing your internet traffic through a server in the US, making it appear as if you’re browsing from within the country.

How a VPN Works to Bypass Geo-Restrictions

• A VPN assigns you a US-based IP address, tricking HBO Max into thinking you are inside the country.
• It encrypts your traffic, ensuring your ISP or government cannot detect VPN usage.
• Premium VPNs like NordVPN and ExpressVPN use obfuscated servers to bypass HBO Max’s VPN detection mechanisms.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a VPN for HBO Max

• Choose a reliable VPN (e.g., NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark).
• Download and install the VPN on your device (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS).
• Connect to a US server (preferably one optimized for streaming).
• Clear your browser cache and cookies to remove location data.
• Open HBO Max and start streaming!

Best VPNs for HBO Max in 2025 (Comparison Table)

VPN Provider	US Servers	Speed (Mbps)	Streaming Reliability	Price (Per Month)
NordVPN	1,970+	950+	Excellent	$3.99
ExpressVPN	24+	900+	Excellent	$6.67
Surfshark	600+	750+	Very Good	$2.49
CyberGhost	1,100+	700+	Good	$2.75

(Prices and speeds are based on 2025 benchmarks.)

2. Using Smart DNS Services

A Smart DNS is another method to bypass HBO Max restrictions in India. Unlike VPNs, Smart DNS doesn’t encrypt your traffic, making it faster for streaming.

How Smart DNS Differs from VPN

Feature	VPN	Smart DNS
Encryption	Yes	No
Speed	Fast	Faster
Unblock Streaming	Yes	Yes
Works on all devices	Yes	Yes

Steps to Configure Smart DNS for HBO Max

• Subscribe to a Smart DNS service like Unlocator, SmartDNSProxy, or Getflix.
• Get your Smart DNS server address from the provider.
• Configure your device’s network settings (PC, mobile, router) with the Smart DNS.
• Restart your device and access HBO Max.

Smart DNS works best for those who don’t want encryption and need faster speeds in India.

3. Using a Proxy Server (Limited Success)

A proxy server is another way to mask your location, but it has serious limitations.

Risks and Limitations of Using Free Proxies

• Easily detected and blocked by HBO Max.
• Unstable connections causing buffering issues.
• Security risks—many free proxies steal user data.
• Limited server locations compared to VPNs.

How to Set Up a Proxy for Streaming HBO Max

• Find a paid US-based proxy service (avoid free proxies).
• Configure the proxy in your browser settings (Chrome, Firefox).
• Visit HBO Max and test if it works.
• Proxies are unreliable for streaming and are not recommended for long-term use.

4. Using a Cloud PC Service

A Cloud PC allows you to remotely access a US-based computer from anywhere in the world. This method works by providing a virtual desktop environment with a US IP address.

How Cloud-Based Virtual Desktops Work

• Cloud PCs host an entire Windows system on a server in the US.
• You connect remotely using software like Shadow PC, Amazon WorkSpaces, or Windows 365.
• Since the cloud PC is located in the US, HBO Max is accessible without any geo-blocks.

How to Set Up a US-Based Cloud PC to Stream HBO Max

• Sign up for a cloud PC provider (e.g., Shadow, Paperspace, V2 Cloud).
• Choose a server location in the US.
• Connect to the virtual desktop from your local computer or smartphone.
• Install a US browser and visit HBO Max.

Cloud PCs are expensive ($10–$40 per month) but work if VPNs or Smart DNS fail.

Best Method to Watch HBO Max Outside the US

Method	Effectiveness	Cost	Speed	Security
VPN	Best	💲💲	🚀 Fast	🔒 Secure
Smart DNS	Good	💲	⚡ Faster	❌ No Encryption
Proxy	Poor	💲	🐢 Slow	❌ Risky
Cloud PC	Excellent	💲💲💲	🚀 Fast	🔒 Secure

Best Choice: VPNs (NordVPN or ExpressVPN)

FAQs

1. Can I watch HBO Max for free with a VPN?

No, you still need an active HBO Max subscription.

2. Does HBO Max ban VPN users?

Yes, HBO Max blocks many VPNs, but premium providers like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark work reliably.

3. Can I use a free VPN to watch HBO Max?

Most free VPNs are blocked, slow, and unsafe.

4. What payment methods work for HBO Max outside the US?

• US Credit Cards (e.g., StatesCard)
• Gift Cards (available from Amazon, MyGiftCardSupply)
• Google Pay/Apple Pay (via VPN)

Conclusion

If you’re outside the US and want to watch HBO Max in 2025, the best method is to use a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN. For faster speeds, Smart DNS is an alternative, but proxies are unreliable, and Cloud PCs are costly.

HBO Max, now rebranded as Max, is a premium streaming service offering exclusive content in India, including hit series like House of the Dragon, The Last of Us, and Euphoria. However, due to licensing agreements, Max is geo-restricted and officially available only in the United States and select regions.

If you’re outside the US and want to subscribe, the main challenge is payment. Even if you use a VPN to bypass regional restrictions, HBO Max only accepts US-based payment methods. Below, we explore workarounds to help you subscribe successfully.

Payment Issues: Why International Payments May Not Work

HBO Max enforces strict payment policies to prevent unauthorized access from outside the US. Some common reasons why international payments fail include:

• Geo-locked Billing Addresses – HBO Max checks whether your credit card or PayPal account is linked to a US billing address.
• IP Address Mismatch – Even with a VPN, if your payment method originates from another country, HBO may flag the transaction as suspicious.
• Limited Gift Card Support – Some regions do not have access to HBO gift cards, restricting alternative payment methods.

Workarounds for Payment Restrictions

To successfully subscribe to HBO Max outside the US, you need a valid US payment method. Here are the top solutions:

1. Using a US-Based Credit Card or PayPal

The easiest way is to use a US-issued credit card or PayPal account. If you have family or friends in the US, ask them to:

✅ Subscribe on your behalf – They can create an account and share login details with you in India.
✅ Add your device – Once subscribed, they can log in on your device, allowing you to access Max using a VPN.

Alternative: Some online payment services like Wise (formerly TransferWise) allow you to set up a US-based virtual debit card. However, success rates vary.

2. Purchasing an HBO Max Gift Card

One of the most reliable workarounds is using an HBO Max gift card, which can be redeemed as a US payment method. Follow these steps:

1️⃣ Buy an HBO Max gift card from websites like:

• MyGiftCardSupply
• Amazon US
• Walmart US
  Connect to a US VPN server (New York or Los Angeles recommended).
  Go to the HBO Max website and select Redeem Gift Card.
  Enter the gift card code and set a US ZIP code (e.g., 90210 – Beverly Hills).
  Sign up and start streaming!

Pro Tip: Gift cards usually come in denominations of $25, $50, or $100, and they work only on US accounts.

3. Using a Virtual Prepaid Card for Subscriptions

If you don’t have access to a US credit card or gift card, another method is using a virtual prepaid card that mimics a US-based card. Some recommended services include:

✅ Privacy.com – Allows users to create virtual US credit cards linked to international bank accounts.
✅ Revolut or Wise – These fintech platforms sometimes offer virtual cards that work with HBO Max.
✅ US Unlocked – A service specifically designed for purchasing from US merchants while abroad.

Steps to Use a Virtual Prepaid Card:

1️⃣ Sign up for a virtual card service (ensure it supports US billing addresses).
2️⃣ Load funds onto the card (at least $16.99 for a monthly ad-free Max subscription).
3️⃣ Connect to a US VPN server and visit the HBO Max website.
4️⃣ Enter your virtual card details during checkout.
5️⃣ Complete your subscription and start streaming!

Final Thoughts

Subscribing to HBO Max from outside the US is possible with the right payment workaround. The most reliable methods include:

✅ Using a US credit card or PayPal (if available).
✅ Redeeming an HBO Max gift card (widely available online).
✅ Using a virtual prepaid card (varies in success rate).

Once subscribed, always use a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions and enjoy HBO Max from anywhere. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark are top choices for uninterrupted streaming.

How to Watch HBO Max Outside the US (2025 Guide)

HBO Max, now rebranded as Max, is one of the top streaming platforms with exclusive content like House of the Dragon, The Last of Us, and Euphoria. However, due to geo-restrictions, it’s only available in select regions, primarily the United States, Latin America, and select European countries.

If you’re traveling or living in a country where HBO Max isn’t available, you’ll encounter the dreaded “Not in Service Area” error. Fortunately, a reliable VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help you bypass these restrictions and access HBO Max from anywhere.

This guide will cover the best VPNs for streaming HBO Max in 2025, key features to look for, and how to choose the right one.

Best VPNs for Watching HBO Max (2025 Edition)

Not all VPNs work with HBO Max due to advanced VPN detection systems. Free VPNs and low-quality services are often blocked. However, the following premium VPNs consistently bypass HBO Max restrictions while offering fast speeds and security.

Features to Look for in an HBO Max VPN

When choosing a VPN for HBO Max, consider these essential factors:

1. Speed & Server Availability

HBO Max streams in HD, Full HD, and 4K, so you need a high-speed VPN with US servers.

• Best VPNs: NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark

2. No-Log Policies & Security Measures

To ensure privacy, choose a no-logs VPN with AES-256 encryption and features like a kill switch.

• Best VPNs: ExpressVPN, NordVPN

3. Ability to Bypass VPN Blocks

HBO Max actively blocks VPNs, so you need obfuscation or smart DNS features.

• Best VPNs: ExpressVPN (MediaStreamer), Surfshark (Camouflage Mode), NordVPN (SmartPlay)

How to Watch HBO Max Outside the US (Step-by-Step Guide)

1️⃣ Subscribe to a VPN (NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, or CyberGhost).
2️⃣ Download & install the VPN on your device.
3️⃣ Connect to a US server (New York, Los Angeles, Miami).
4️⃣ Go to HBO Max and log in.
5️⃣ Start streaming!

If HBO Max detects your VPN, try:

• Switching to a different US server
• Clearing cookies and using Incognito Mode
• Changing VPN protocols (WireGuard, Lightway, OpenVPN)

Which VPN Should You Choose?

For the best HBO Max streaming experience in 2025:
✅ Best Overall VPN: NordVPN – Fastest speeds & best streaming features
✅ Best for Reliability: ExpressVPN – Works consistently with all streaming platforms
✅ Best Budget Option: Surfshark – Unlimited devices for an affordable price
✅ Best for Beginners: CyberGhost – Easy-to-use apps with dedicated HBO Max servers

FAQs

Can I use a free VPN for HBO Max?

No, free VPNs won’t work. They have:

• Limited speeds and bandwidth
• Fewer servers that HBO Max blocks easily
• Security risks (some log your data)

 What devices can I use a VPN on for HBO Max?

VPNs work on:
✅ Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
✅ Firestick, Roku, Apple TV (via router)
✅ PlayStation & Xbox (via router)

Is using a VPN for HBO Max legal?

✅ Yes, but it violates HBO Max’s Terms of Service. The worst that can happen? You get an error message. Simply switch servers or use a stealth VPN (e.g., Surfshark’s Camouflage Mode).

How to Watch HBO Max on Different Devices Abroad

HBO Max (now simply Max) is officially available only in the United States and a few other regions. If you’re traveling or living abroad, you may encounter geo-restrictions that block access. The best way to bypass these restrictions in India is by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) or Smart DNS to disguise your location and access HBO Max from anywhere.

Below, we’ll walk you through setting up HBO Max on smart TVs, mobile devices, and computers while abroad.

Watching HBO Max on a Smart TV

Many smart TVs don’t support direct VPN installation, so you’ll need to set up a VPN on your router or use streaming devices like Firestick or Chromecast.

Setting Up a VPN on a Router

Since smart TVs typically lack built-in VPN support, you can configure a VPN at the router level to ensure all connected devices benefit from the VPN. Here’s how:

• Check if your router supports VPNs – Compatible models include Asus RT-AC86U, Netgear Nighthawk R7000, and Linksys WRT3200ACM.
• Log in to your router’s admin panel (usually at 192.168.1.1).
• Enter VPN credentials provided by your VPN service (e.g., ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark).
• Select a U.S. server from your VPN provider.
• Connect your smart TV to the router and start streaming HBO Max.

Not all routers support VPN installation. If yours doesn’t, consider purchasing a pre-configured VPN router from providers like FlashRouters.

Using a Firestick or Chromecast

If you’re using a Firestick, Chromecast, or Roku, here’s how to access HBO Max:

• Firestick:
• Install a VPN app (ExpressVPN, CyberGhost) from the Amazon App Store.
• Connect to a U.S. server and open the HBO Max app.
• If the app isn’t available, sideload it using Downloader (Amazon’s sideloading tool).
• Chromecast:
• Use a VPN on your smartphone or laptop to access HBO Max.
• Open HBO Max in Chrome, then click the Cast button.
• Select your Chromecast-enabled TV and enjoy streaming.

Watching HBO Max on Mobile Devices

If you’re outside the U.S., downloading HBO Max from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) might not be possible. A VPN and store region change can fix this.

Installing a VPN on iOS and Android

• Download a reliable VPN such as NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or Private Internet Access.
• Connect to a U.S. server before opening HBO Max.
• Open the HBO Max app and log in.

Changing App Store Location to Download HBO Max

For iPhone & iPad (iOS)

• Go to Settings > Apple ID > Media & Purchases > View Account.
• Select Country/Region and switch to United States.
• Enter a U.S. address (use a random U.S. address generator).
• Open the App Store and download HBO Max.

For Android Devices

• Open Google Play Store and tap on your profile picture.
• Select Settings > General > Account and Device Preferences.
• Change Country and Profile to United States (requires a U.S. payment method).
• Restart the Play Store and install HBO Max.

Tip: If changing your store region isn’t an option, sideload the HBO Max APK from APKMirror or APKPure (trusted sources).

Watching HBO Max on a PC or Mac

Using a VPN or Smart DNS can help bypass HBO Max restrictions on Windows, macOS, or Linux.

Using Browser Extensions for VPN Access

For quick access, install a VPN browser extension like:

• ExpressVPN (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)
• NordVPN (Chrome, Firefox)
• Surfshark (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)

Steps to Watch HBO Max on a Browser:

• Install the VPN extension on your preferred browser.
• Connect to a U.S. server.
• Open HBO Max (www.max.com) and log in.

Setting Up Smart DNS on a Computer

If a VPN slows down your connection, a Smart DNS service offers a faster way to unblock HBO Max.

Steps to Configure Smart DNS:

• Subscribe to a Smart DNS provider like SmartDNSProxy or Unlocator.
• Get the Smart DNS server addresses from your provider.
• Open Network Settings on your PC or Mac and update the DNS settings.
• Restart your browser and access HBO Max.

Conclusion

Whether you’re using a smart TV, mobile device, or computer in India, you can easily watch HBO Max outside the U.S. using a VPN or Smart DNS. Ensure you pick a high-speed VPN with U.S. servers (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark) for a smooth streaming experience.

Need a quick solution? A VPN browser extension or Smart DNS setup can get you watching HBO Max within minutes. Enjoy streaming your favorite HBO Max originals like The Last of Us, House of the Dragon, and Euphoria from anywhere in the world!

Legal and Security Considerations for Watching HBO Max Outside the US

If you’re looking to access HBO Max (now rebranded as Max) outside the United States, it’s crucial to understand the legal and security aspects involved. Here’s what you need to know before using a VPN or other methods to bypass geo-restrictions.

Is Using a VPN for HBO Max Legal?

The legality of using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to watch HBO Max varies depending on where you are:

• United States: Using a VPN itself is legal, but HBO Max’s Terms of Service explicitly prohibit bypassing geo-restrictions. This means your account could be suspended or banned if detected.
• United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Most of Europe: VPNs are legal in these countries, but streaming content from HBO Max outside its licensed regions may violate copyright agreements.
• China, Russia, UAE, and Iran: These countries heavily restrict VPN usage, and using one to access HBO Max could lead to fines or even legal consequences.

HBO Max uses advanced VPN detection systems in India, which can block common VPN providers. Services like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark frequently update their servers to bypass these restrictions, but there’s always a risk of your connection being interrupted.

Risks of Using Free VPNs and Proxies

While free VPNs may seem like a good solution, they come with significant risks:

Data Logging & Privacy Risks

• • Many free VPNs sell user data to third parties, exposing your personal information.
  • Notable breaches: Hola VPN was found to be selling user bandwidth, turning them into exit nodes.

Slow Streaming & Bandwidth Limits

• • Free VPNs often throttle speed and impose data limits, making streaming HBO Max in 4K or even HD difficult.

Limited Server Locations

• • Many free services have a small number of servers, making it easier for HBO Max to detect and block them.
  • Services like TunnelBear and Windscribe have limited U.S. servers, meaning they may not work consistently.

Malware and Security Threats

• • Some free VPNs contain malware, spyware, or ad injectors.
  • In 2021, SuperVPN, a popular free app, suffered a data breach affecting 21 million users.

For secure and reliable streaming, paid VPNs like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access (PIA) offer no-log policies, fast speeds, and strong security features.

Protecting Your Data While Streaming

If you decide to use a VPN for HBO Max, ensure you follow these security measures:

1. Use a No-Log VPN

• Recommended: NordVPN, Mullvad, or ProtonVPN (all verified no-log VPNs).
• Avoid VPNs that keep logs, as they may share data with authorities or third parties.

2. Enable DNS and IP Leak Protection

• VPNs like Surfshark and ExpressVPN offer built-in leak protection.
• Check your VPN for leaks using tools like ipleak.net.

3. Use Secure Payment Methods

• Pay for VPNs using cryptocurrency or prepaid cards to protect your identity.
• ProtonVPN allows anonymous payments for added privacy.

4. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on HBO Max

• Even with a VPN, ensure your HBO Max account has MFA enabled to prevent unauthorized access.

5. Update Your VPN and Security Software Regularly

• Outdated VPN software can have vulnerabilities, making you susceptible to detection or hacking.
• Always keep your VPN updated to access HBO Max securely.

Final Thoughts

While a VPN is an effective way to watch HBO Max outside the US, it’s important to consider legal risks in India, security concerns, and streaming quality. Avoid free VPNs, use a trusted provider, and ensure your data is protected while streaming.

If HBO Max blocks your VPN, consider switching servers or using a Smart DNS service for an alternative way to bypass restrictions.

Alternative Streaming Platforms: How to Watch HBO Content Outside the US

If you’re outside the US and looking for ways to watch HBO content legally, there are several alternative streaming platforms available. While HBO Max (now rebranded as Max) is officially available only in select regions, you can still access HBO shows and movies through other legal streaming services worldwide.

Streaming Services Offering HBO Shows Internationally

Different streaming platforms partner with HBO to offer their content in various countries. Here are some of the top legal alternatives:

1. Crave (Canada)

• Availability: Canada
• Pricing: Starts at CAD $9.99/month
• What It Offers: Crave has an official deal with HBO, bringing popular shows like Game of Thrones, The Last of Us, Euphoria, and Succession to Canadian viewers.
• How to Subscribe: Available via direct subscription or through TV providers like Bell.

2. Sky Atlantic / NOW (UK, Germany, Italy)

• Availability: United Kingdom, Germany, Italy
• Pricing: NOW TV plans start at £9.99/month
• What It Offers: Sky Atlantic holds exclusive rights to HBO shows in the UK and Europe, including House of the Dragon and The White Lotus.
• How to Subscribe: Available through Sky TV or via the NOW streaming service.

3. Foxtel / Binge (Australia)

• Availability: Australia
• Pricing: Binge starts at AUD $10/month
• What It Offers: Both Foxtel and its streaming service Binge provide access to HBO’s library, including series like Curb Your Enthusiasm and True Detective: Night Country.
• How to Subscribe: Direct subscription or as part of Foxtel cable packages.

4. HBO Go / HBO Asia (Southeast Asia)

• Availability: Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Hong Kong, Taiwan
• Pricing: Varies by country, typically around $8–$12/month
• What It Offers: HBO Go offers direct access to HBO’s latest shows, movies, and originals in Asian markets.

5. JioCinema (India)

• Availability: India
• Pricing: Free with select Jio plans
• What It Offers: JioCinema recently secured HBO content distribution in India, including titles like Barry and The Idol.
• How to Subscribe: Available for Jio subscribers at no additional cost.

6. OCS (France)

• Availability: France
• Pricing: Starts at €11.99/month
• What It Offers: OCS (Orange Cinéma Séries) has an exclusive licensing deal with HBO, allowing French audiences to stream popular series.

Conclusion

Even if HBO Max (Max) is unavailable in your country, you can still legally watch HBO content through regional streaming services. The best option depends on your location and preferred pricing plan. Always check with official sources for the latest availability and subscription details.

Conclusion & Final Recommendations

If you’re outside the U.S. and want reliable access to HBO Max (now rebranded as Max), using a high-quality VPN and a suitable payment solution is essential. Not all VPNs work consistently, and payment restrictions can be a hurdle, but the right combination will ensure seamless streaming.

Best Method for Reliable HBO Max Access Abroad

The most effective way to watch HBO Max outside the U.S. is by:

Using a Premium VPN:

• • ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark are among the most reliable VPNs for bypassing geo-restrictions.
  • Ensure the VPN has U.S. servers, strong encryption, and no DNS leaks to avoid detection.

Setting Up a U.S. Payment Method:

• • StatesCard: A virtual U.S. prepaid card that works with HBO Max. It has some fees but is widely used.
  • PayPal (Linked to a U.S. Card): If you have a U.S.-based PayPal account, you can subscribe directly.
  • Apple/Google Gift Cards: Purchase a U.S. App Store or Google Play gift card and redeem it for an HBO Max subscription.

Summary of Recommended VPNs and Payment Solutions

VPN Service	Features	Pricing (Per Month)
ExpressVPN	Fast servers, best for streaming	~$8.32 (1-year plan)
NordVPN	Strong security, many U.S. servers	~$3.99 (2-year plan)
Surfshark	Budget-friendly, unlimited devices	~$2.49 (2-year plan)

 

Payment Method	How It Works	Fees
StatesCard	A virtual prepaid U.S. card	~$3 setup + monthly fee
U.S. PayPal	Requires linking to a U.S. bank/card	No extra fees
Gift Cards	Buy U.S. Google Play or Apple gift cards	No fees

Final Call to Action

Now that you know the best way to access HBO Max from anywhere, it’s time to get started.

• Pick a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN for smooth streaming.
• Set up a U.S. payment method, such as StatesCard or gift cards.
• Sign up for HBO Max and start watching your favorite shows!