How to Stream Amazon Prime Video Anywhere in 2025 | Bypass Geo-Restrictions

Introduction

Amazon Prime Video is one of the most popular streaming services worldwide, offering a vast library of movies, TV shows, and original content like The Boys, Reacher, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. However, many users in New Zealand face the frustrating issue of geo-restrictions, preventing access to specific content based on their location.

If you’ve ever tried to watch a movie available in the U.S. but not in your country, you’re not alone. This guide explains why Amazon Prime Video enforces regional restrictions and how you can legally bypass them to access your desired content.

Overview of Amazon Prime Video’s Geo-Restrictions

Amazon Prime Video enforces geo-blocking due to licensing agreements with content producers. These restrictions vary depending on agreements made in different regions.

For example:

• The Office (U.S.) may be available in the United States but not in Canada.
• Bollywood movies might be accessible on Amazon Prime India but unavailable in the U.K.
• Japanese anime might stream in Japan but be locked in other countries.

When you access Amazon Prime Video, the platform detects your location using your IP address and restricts content accordingly.

Why Content Availability Differs by Country

Content restrictions exist because media rights are sold separately in each country. Here’s why:

1. Regional Licensing Deals

Amazon does not own the global rights to many movies and TV shows. Instead, studios sell broadcasting rights region by region.
Example: Star Trek: Picard is available on Amazon Prime in some countries but streams on Paramount+ in the U.S.

2. Censorship Laws & Regulations

Some countries impose restrictions on certain genres, themes, or explicit content.
Example:

• China restricts foreign films unless they comply with government regulations.
• Saudi Arabia censors content that does not align with local values.

3. Pricing & Subscription Models

Amazon Prime Video subscriptions vary in price and content offerings based on country-specific deals.

• Amazon Prime U.S. costs $14.99/month, while
• Amazon Prime India costs ₹1499/year (~$18) but with a different content library.

How to Stream Amazon Prime Video from Any Country with NordVPN and Surfshark VPN

If you’re traveling or living in a country where Amazon Prime Video content is restricted, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help you bypass these geo-blocks and access your favorite shows and movies. Below, we’ll show you how to stream Amazon Prime Video from anywhere using NordVPN and Surfshark VPN separately.

How to Stream Amazon Prime Video with NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the best VPNs for unblocking streaming services, thanks to its fast servers and strong encryption. Here’s how you can use it:

• Sign up for NordVPN – Get NordVPN Here
• Download and Install – Install the NordVPN app on your device (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, or even Firestick).
• Connect to a Server – Open NordVPN and connect to a server in a country where Amazon Prime Video has the content you want to watch (e.g., the US, UK, or Germany).
• Log into Amazon Prime Video – Visit Amazon Prime Video and log in with your account.
• Start Streaming – Enjoy your favorite Prime Video content without restrictions.

Get NordVPN Now

How to Stream Amazon Prime Video with Surfshark VPN

Surfshark VPN is another excellent choice for unblocking Amazon Prime Video, offering unlimited device connections  in New Zealand and strong privacy features. Follow these steps:

• Sign up for Surfshark – Get Surfshark VPN Here
• Install the Surfshark App – Download and install it on your preferred device.
• Choose a Server – Launch the app and connect to a server in a country where Amazon Prime Video offers the content you want.
• Access Amazon Prime Video – Open Amazon Prime Video and sign in.
• Enjoy Your Content – Start streaming without regional restrictions.

Get Surfshark VPN Now

Amazon Prime Video is one of the most popular streaming services worldwide, offering a vast library of movies, TV shows, and original content like The Boys, Reacher, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. However, many users face the frustrating issue of geo-restrictions, preventing access to specific content based on their location.

If you’ve ever tried to watch a movie available in the U.S. but not in your country, you’re not alone. This guide explains why Amazon Prime Video enforces regional restrictions and how you can legally bypass them to access your desired content.

Overview of Amazon Prime Video’s Geo-Restrictions

Amazon Prime Video enforces geo-blocking due to licensing agreements with content producers. These restrictions vary depending on agreements made in different regions.

For example:

• The Office (U.S.) may be available in the United States but not in Canada.
• Bollywood movies might be accessible on Amazon Prime India but unavailable in the U.K.
• Japanese anime might stream in Japan but be locked in other countries.

When you access Amazon Prime Video, the platform detects your location using your IP address and restricts content accordingly.

Why Content Availability Differs by Country

Content restrictions exist because media rights are sold separately in each country. Here’s why:

1. Regional Licensing Deals

Amazon does not own the global rights to many movies and TV shows. Instead, studios sell broadcasting rights region by region.
Example: Star Trek: Picard is available on Amazon Prime in some countries but streams on Paramount+ in the U.S.

2. Censorship Laws & Regulations

Some countries impose restrictions on certain genres, themes, or explicit content.
Example:

• China restricts foreign films unless they comply with government regulations.
• Saudi Arabia censors content that does not align with local values.

3. Pricing & Subscription Models

Amazon Prime Video subscriptions vary in price and content offerings based on country-specific deals.

• Amazon Prime U.S. costs $14.99/month, while
• Amazon Prime India costs ₹1499/year (~$18) but with a different content library.

The Importance of Bypassing Restrictions Legally

While VPNs and proxies are common solutions to bypass geo-restrictions, it’s crucial to do so legally to avoid violating Amazon’s terms of service.

Legal Ways to Access Amazon Prime Video from Any Country

Amazon’s “Watch While Abroad” Feature – Some Amazon Originals like The Grand Tour can be streamed worldwide.
Download Before Traveling – If you’re traveling, download content in advance to watch offline.
Change Your Amazon Region – If you relocate, update your country settings in Amazon Account > Content & Devices > Preferences > Country Settings.
Use a Reliable VPN (Cautiously) – Some VPNs like ExpressVPN and NordVPN work with Amazon Prime, but they might violate terms of service.

Avoid free VPNs – Many are blocked, slow, or collect personal data.

Understanding Amazon Prime Video’s Geo-Restrictions

Amazon Prime Video is available in over 200 countries, but its content varies by region due to licensing agreements in New Zealand. This means that while a subscriber in the U.S. has access to shows like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Reacher, someone in India might see a completely different catalog. Certain titles may be blocked entirely in specific countries due to regional broadcasting rights.

How Amazon Prime Video Detects Your Location

Amazon Prime Video uses multiple methods to determine a user’s location:

• IP Address Tracking – The most common way streaming services enforce geo-restrictions is by identifying your IP address, which reveals your country.
• GPS Data on Mobile Devices – If you’re using a smartphone or tablet, Amazon can use your device’s GPS to confirm your location.
• Payment Method and Account Details – Your Amazon account is linked to a specific country based on the billing address and payment method used at sign-up.
• DNS and WebRTC Leaks – Even if you use a VPN, Amazon may detect location mismatches by checking DNS requests or WebRTC leaks from your browser.

Because of these measures, accessing region-restricted content outside authorized locations can be challenging without the right tools.

Licensing Agreements and Country-Specific Content Libraries

Amazon Prime Video does not own global rights to all its content. Instead, it signs licensing agreements with studios and production companies that limit where content can be streamed.

• U.S. Library: The largest collection, including The Boys, Jack Ryan, and Thursday Night Football.
• UK Library: Features exclusive British dramas like Clarkson’s Farm and Good Omens.
• India Library: Includes Bollywood hits and Indian originals like Mirzapur and Paatal Lok.
• Japan Library: Carries anime series such as Attack on Titan and Demon Slayer.

These restrictions explain why a show available in one country may be unavailable elsewhere.

Common Issues Faced When Traveling Abroad

Many Amazon Prime Video subscribers encounter problems when they travel outside their home country:

• Blocked Access to Home Library – If you’re a U.S. user traveling to Europe, you may find that some of your favorite shows are missing.
• “This Video is Unavailable in Your Location” Error – This message appears when content is restricted based on your current IP address.
• Streaming Lag or Buffering Issues – Using a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions can slow down streaming due to encrypted connections.
• Payment Issues – Some users find it difficult to subscribe to Prime Video or rent/buy movies abroad due to regional payment restrictions.
• Luckily, there are solutions to bypass these geo-restrictions legally and securely. In the next sections, we’ll explore how to access Amazon Prime Video from any country using VPNs, Smart DNS, and alternative methods.

Amazon Prime Video offers a vast library of movies and TV shows, but its content varies depending on your location. Due to licensing agreements, users in the U.S. have access to different content than those in the UK, India, or Japan. If you’re traveling or living in a country with a limited catalog, you may want to unblock Prime Video libraries from other regions.

In this guide, we explore multiple working methods to access Amazon Prime Video from anywhere in the world, including VPNs, Smart DNS services, proxy servers, and account setting adjustments in New Zealand.

1. Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network)

How VPNs Work to Unblock Geo-Restricted Content

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) routes your internet traffic through a server in another country, making it appear as though you’re browsing from that location. This is particularly useful for streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, which restrict content based on IP addresses.

For example, if you’re in Canada but connect to a U.S. server via VPN, Amazon Prime Video will think you’re in the U.S. and grant access to the American catalog.

Choosing the Right VPN for Amazon Prime Video

Not all VPNs work with Amazon Prime Video. The service actively blocks many VPN IP addresses, so choosing the right provider is crucial.

Features to Look for in a VPN:

Streaming Compatibility – Bypasses Amazon’s VPN blocks.
Speed & Performance – High-speed servers for HD and 4K streaming.
No-Log Policy – Ensures your browsing activity remains private.
Server Locations – Wide range of country options.

Best VPNs for Amazon Prime Video (2025)

Based on recent tests, here are the top VPNs that consistently bypass Amazon Prime’s restrictions:

• ExpressVPN – Fast speeds, reliable for U.S., UK, and Japan libraries.
• NordVPN – Strong security and SmartPlay feature for seamless streaming.
• Surfshark – Affordable and unblocks multiple regions with unlimited connections.
• CyberGhost – Dedicated streaming servers optimized for Amazon Prime Video.
• Private Internet Access (PIA) – Large server network but may require manual settings.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a VPN for Amazon Prime Video

• Sign up for a VPN that works with Prime Video (e.g., ExpressVPN, NordVPN).
• Download & Install the VPN app on your device (PC, mobile, Firestick, or router).
• Connect to a server in the country whose Prime Video library you want to access.
• Clear your browser cache or restart the Prime Video app.
• Log into Amazon Prime Video and start streaming!

Troubleshooting VPN Issues

If you get an “Amazon Proxy Error” or VPN detection message, try:

Switching to a different VPN server in the same region.
Using obfuscated servers (available in ExpressVPN & NordVPN).
Clearing cookies and changing browsers.
Enabling split tunneling (some VPNs allow you to exclude certain apps).

2. Smart DNS Services

How Smart DNS Differs from VPNs

A Smart DNS service works differently from a VPN. Instead of encrypting your entire internet connection, it reroutes only your DNS queries, tricking websites into thinking you’re in a different country.

Faster speeds than VPNs since there’s no encryption.
Works on more devices, including Smart TVs, consoles, and Apple TV.
No encryption – Less secure than VPNs.

Best Smart DNS Services for Amazon Prime Video (2024)

• SmartDNSProxy – Works with Amazon Prime, Netflix, and Disney+.
• Unlocator – Bypasses regional restrictions without slowing down your internet.
• ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer – Comes with an ExpressVPN subscription.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide for Smart DNS on Amazon Prime Video

• Sign up for a Smart DNS service.
• Follow the provider’s setup guide to configure your device’s DNS settings.
• Restart your device and clear cookies.
• Log into Amazon Prime Video and enjoy unrestricted content.

3. Proxy Servers and Browser Extensions

How Proxy Servers Work for Streaming

A proxy server acts as an intermediary between you and Amazon Prime Video, masking your real IP address. However, proxies are less reliable than VPNs.

Limitations and Security Risks of Proxy Servers

Easily detected by Amazon Prime, leading to blocked access.
Slower speeds and frequent buffering.
No encryption, exposing your online activity.

Recommended Browser Extensions for Amazon Prime Video

Some Chrome and Firefox extensions claim to unblock streaming services, but VPN browser extensions (e.g., NordVPN, Surfshark) are more reliable than standalone proxies.

4. Changing Amazon Account Country Settings

If you prefer a permanent solution, you can change your Amazon country settings to access a different content library.

How to Update Your Country Settings in Amazon Prime

• Go to Amazon’s Manage Your Content and Devices.
• Click “Preferences” > “Country/Region Settings”.
• Change your country to the desired one (e.g., USA, UK, India).
• Provide a local address (you can use a hotel or friend’s address).
• Update your payment method (Amazon may require a local payment method).

Impact on Billing, Subscriptions, and Content Availability

You will be charged in the new country’s currency.
You may lose access to some existing content.
Amazon may ask for address verification.

Alternative Payment Methods for Switching Countries

Amazon Gift Cards – Bypass the need for a local credit card.
Virtual Debit Cards – Some banks offer international virtual cards.
PayPal (if available in the selected country).

5. Downloading Content for Offline Viewing

Amazon Prime Video allows users to download movies and TV shows for offline viewing, which is useful when traveling.

Using Amazon Prime’s “Watch While Abroad” Feature

Amazon lets you watch downloaded content even when traveling, but not all titles are available offline.

How to Download Shows and Movies Before Traveling

• Open the Prime Video app on your mobile or Fire Tablet.
• Find the movie/TV show you want to download.
• Tap the “Download” button (some content may have limits).
• Enjoy offline viewing without needing a VPN!

Supported Devices and Limitations

Works on Android, iOS, Fire Tablets, Windows 10, and some Smart TVs.
Downloaded content may expire after 30 days.
You can only watch in the country where you downloaded it (except for limited travel mode).

Final Thoughts

The best method to stream Amazon Prime Video from any country depends on your needs:

For privacy & reliability → Use a VPN (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark).
For speed & ease of use → Smart DNS (SmartDNSProxy, Unlocator).
For a long-term fix → Change your Amazon country settings.
For offline access → Download content before traveling.

Amazon Prime Video offers a vast library of movies, TV shows, and exclusive content. However, due to regional licensing agreements, certain titles are unavailable in some countries. If you’re traveling or living in a region where Amazon Prime Video is restricted, you might need alternative methods to access your favorite content.

This guide will explore legal and ethical considerations, the best ways to unblock Amazon Prime Video, and troubleshooting tips to ensure a seamless streaming experience.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Is It Legal to Use a VPN for Amazon Prime Video?

The legality of using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for streaming depends on your country’s laws.

• In countries like the U.S., Canada, and the UK, using a VPN is legal as long as you’re not violating copyright laws.
• In restrictive regions like China, Russia, and the UAE, VPN use is either heavily regulated or banned.
• Amazon itself does not prosecute users for using a VPN, but it actively tries to block VPN access to its content.

Amazon’s Terms of Service on VPN Usage

Amazon’s Terms of Service (ToS) explicitly state that users must access content only in their designated region. The company employs advanced VPN detection technology to block users who attempt to bypass restrictions. While Amazon doesn’t ban accounts solely for VPN usage, it may block access to content or display an error message such as:

“Your device is connected to the internet using a VPN or proxy service. Please disable it and try again.”

Risks of Account Suspension or Bans

• Temporary access denial: If Amazon detects VPN usage, you might be unable to stream content until you disable the VPN.
• Payment and subscription issues: Changing regions frequently could lead to billing problems or require alternative payment methods.
• Potential ban (rare cases): While unlikely, repeated violations of Amazon’s policies could result in account restrictions.

Methods to Stream Amazon Prime Video from Any Country

1. Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network)

How VPNs Work to Unblock Geo-Restricted Content

A VPN encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a server in a different country. This makes it appear as if you’re accessing Amazon Prime Video from an eligible location, allowing you to bypass regional restrictions.

Choosing the Right VPN for Amazon Prime Video

Not all VPNs work with Amazon Prime Video due to its strong anti-VPN measures. Look for these features:
High-speed servers: VPNs like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark offer optimized servers for streaming.
Multiple server locations: The more server locations available, the better your chances of accessing different Amazon Prime regions.
No-log policy: Ensure your VPN doesn’t store browsing history to maintain privacy.
Streaming compatibility: Some VPNs offer dedicated streaming servers to bypass detection.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a VPN for Amazon Prime Video

• Choose a reliable VPN (e.g., ExpressVPN, NordVPN, CyberGhost).
• Install the VPN app on your device (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, or Smart TV).
• Connect to a server in a country where your desired content is available (e.g., connect to a U.S. server for Amazon Prime U.S.).
• Log into Amazon Prime Video and start streaming!
• If you receive a VPN error, try switching servers or using a dedicated streaming IP.

Troubleshooting VPN Issues

• If Amazon detects your VPN, try switching to a different server.
• Clear your browser cache and cookies.
• Use obfuscated servers (offered by ExpressVPN and NordVPN) to bypass VPN detection.
• Consider Smart DNS as an alternative if VPNs fail.

2. Smart DNS Services

How Smart DNS Differs from VPNs

Unlike VPNs, Smart DNS services don’t encrypt your traffic but instead reroute DNS queries to trick Amazon into thinking you’re in another country. This often results in faster speeds than VPNs.

Best Smart DNS Services for Amazon Prime Video

• SmartDNSProxy
• Unlocator
• ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

• Sign up for a Smart DNS service.
• Configure DNS settings on your device (PC, Smart TV, gaming console).
• Restart your internet connection and log into Amazon Prime Video.
• Enjoy unrestricted access!

3. Proxy Servers and Browser Extensions

How Proxy Servers Work for Streaming

A proxy server acts as an intermediary between your device and Amazon Prime Video, changing your IP address to a different location.

Limitations and Security Risks of Proxy Servers

• Most free proxies are easily detected and blocked by Amazon.
• They often lack encryption, leaving your data exposed.
• Slower speeds compared to VPNs and Smart DNS.

Recommended Browser Extensions for Amazon Prime Video

• Hola VPN (Use with caution due to security concerns)
• Urban VPN
• Windscribe Free VPN

4. Changing Amazon Account Country Settings

How to Update Your Country Settings in Amazon Prime

• Go to Amazon Account Settings.
• Select “Manage Your Content and Devices.”
• Update your country settings to your preferred region.
• Add a new payment method (if required).
• Restart your app or device to see region-specific content.

Impact on Billing, Subscriptions, and Content Availability

• Some regions may lack specific Amazon Originals due to licensing.
• Your Prime membership pricing might change.
• Some payment methods (like U.S. credit cards) might not work in certain countries.

Alternative Payment Methods for Switching Countries

• Virtual credit cards (Revolut, Wise)
• Amazon gift cards
• PayPal (if supported in your target country)

5. Downloading Content for Offline Viewing

Using Amazon Prime’s “Watch While Abroad” Feature

Amazon allows Prime members to watch previously downloaded content while traveling. However, some restrictions apply.

How to Download Shows and Movies Before Traveling

• Open the Amazon Prime Video app on your device.
• Find the movie or TV show you want to download.
• Tap the Download button (Available for mobile and tablet devices).
• Access your downloads section while abroad.

Supported Devices and Limitations

Works on: Android, iOS, Fire Tablets.
Doesn’t work on: Laptops, desktop browsers.
Some downloaded content expires after 30 days if not watched.

Streaming Amazon Prime Video from any country is possible using VPNs, Smart DNS, proxies, and country settings changes. However, each method has its own pros and cons.
For best results, a premium VPN like ExpressVPN or NordVPN remains the most reliable solution due to its ability to bypass restrictions consistently.

How to Stream Amazon Prime Video from Any Country

Amazon Prime Video has a vast library of movies and TV shows, but its content varies by country due to licensing restrictions. If you’re traveling or living in a country where your favorite shows aren’t available, you may need a workaround to access the full Prime Video library. This guide compares different methods to stream Amazon Prime Video from any country, evaluating their speed, reliability, security, and difficulty level.

Comparison of Different Methods to Access Amazon Prime Video Globally

Method	Speed	Reliability	Security	Difficulty Level
VPN (Virtual Private Network)	Fast	High	High	Moderate
Smart DNS	Fast	Medium	Low	Easy
Proxy	Slow	Low	Low	Easy
Changing Account Country	Fast	High	High	Difficult
Offline Downloads	Fast	High	High	Easy

1. Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A VPN is the most popular and effective method to bypass geo-restrictions on Amazon Prime Video.

How It Works:

A VPN encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a server in a different country, making it appear as if you’re browsing from that location. This allows you to access the Amazon Prime Video library of the selected country.

Best VPNs for Amazon Prime Video (as of 2024):

• ExpressVPN – Known for fast speeds and reliable unblocking of Prime Video.
• NordVPN – Offers dedicated streaming servers and strong security.
• Surfshark – Budget-friendly with unlimited device connections.
• CyberGhost – User-friendly and optimized for streaming.
• Private Internet Access (PIA) – Strong security features with a vast server network.

Pros:

High-speed connections for HD and 4K streaming
Strong security and encryption to protect your data
Reliable access to multiple regional libraries

Cons:

Some VPNs may be blocked by Amazon
Requires a paid subscription for premium VPNs
Can slow down internet speeds if using distant servers

Verdict:

Using a premium VPN is the most secure and reliable way to stream Amazon Prime Video from any country.

2. Smart DNS (Domain Name System)

Smart DNS is another way to bypass geo-restrictions, but it doesn’t encrypt your internet connection.

How It Works:

Smart DNS services change the DNS settings on your device to redirect traffic through a proxy server in a different country, allowing access to restricted content.

Popular Smart DNS Services:

• Unlocator
• Smart DNS Proxy
• KeepSolid SmartDNS

Pros:

Faster than VPNs since there’s no encryption overhead
Easy to set up on devices like Smart TVs and gaming consoles
Works with multiple streaming services

Cons:

Less secure – does not encrypt traffic
May not work if Amazon Prime Video detects and blocks the DNS
Some ISPs block Smart DNS services

Verdict:

Smart DNS is a fast and simple alternative to VPNs, but it’s less reliable and lacks security.

3. Using a Proxy Server

A proxy server works similarly to a VPN but offers much weaker security.

How It Works:

A proxy routes your internet traffic through a remote server, masking your actual IP address.

Pros:

Free options available in New Zealand
Works for basic content unblocking

Cons:

Very slow speeds, leading to buffering issues
Easily detected and blocked by Amazon Prime Video
Lacks encryption, making it insecure

Verdict:

Proxies are unreliable for streaming Amazon Prime Video and should be avoided.

4. Changing Amazon Prime Account Country

If you have a long-term stay in a different country, you can change your Amazon account’s country settings.

How It Works:

• Go to Amazon Account Settings > Manage Your Content and Devices > Preferences.
• Update your country to match the region you want access to.
• Use a local payment method if required.

Pros:

Works without VPNs or Smart DNS
No risk of detection or blocking

Cons:

Requires a payment method from the new country
Some content may still be unavailable due to licensing

Verdict:

Best for users who plan to stay in a different country for an extended period.

5. Offline Downloads (Best for Travelers)

Amazon Prime Video allows users to download movies and shows for offline viewing.

How It Works:

• Download content before traveling while in your home country.
• Watch offline from anywhere, bypassing geo-restrictions.

Pros:

100% reliable – no need for VPNs or proxies
Works without an internet connection

Cons:

Limited to the content available in your home country
Some downloads may expire after 30 days

Verdict:

Ideal for travelers who want to watch content without worrying about restrictions.

• For the most reliable and secure access: Use a premium VPN like ExpressVPN or NordVPN.
• For an easy and fast method without encryption: Smart DNS can be a good alternative.
• For a completely free method: Use Amazon’s offline download feature before traveling.
• For a long-term solution: Consider changing your Amazon account’s country.

How to Stream Amazon Prime Video from Any Country

Amazon Prime Video offers an extensive library of movies, TV shows, and exclusive content. However, due to geo-restrictions, some titles or even the entire service may not be available in certain countries. This guide will help you bypass these restrictions and enhance your streaming experience.

Best Practices for Smooth Streaming

To ensure a seamless streaming experience, follow these best practices:

Use a High-Quality VPN

• • A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is essential to access Amazon Prime Video from a restricted region. Top choices include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark, which offer strong encryption and multiple server locations.

Select the Right Server Location

• • Choose a VPN server in a country where Amazon Prime Video is fully available (e.g., United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, or Japan).

Clear Cache & Cookies

• • Amazon detects VPN usage through cookies and stored data. Regularly clear your browser cache and cookies or use an incognito/private browsing mode.

Use a Wired Connection or Fast Wi-Fi

• • A minimum internet speed of 5 Mbps is needed for HD streaming, and 15-25 Mbps for 4K. If possible, connect via an Ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi to avoid lag.

Disable IPv6

• • Some VPNs don’t fully support IPv6, which can lead to leaks. Disabling IPv6 in your network settings helps prevent Amazon from detecting your real location.

Tips to Avoid VPN Detection by Amazon

Amazon Prime Video has advanced VPN detection systems that block many VPN servers. Here’s how to avoid getting caught:

Choose a VPN with Obfuscation Technology

• • ExpressVPN’s Lightway, NordVPN’s Obfuscated Servers, and Surfshark’s Camouflage Mode disguise VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, making it harder for Amazon to detect.

Switch VPN Servers Regularly

• • If Amazon blocks a specific server, switch to another one within the same country. VPN providers frequently update their server lists.

Use a Residential VPN or Smart DNS

• • Some providers offer residential IPs, which mimic real home connections and are harder for Amazon to block. Alternatively, services like SmartDNS (e.g., Unlocator, Getflix) can help bypass geo-restrictions without encrypting traffic.

Avoid Free VPNs

• • Free VPNs often have limited bandwidth, slow speeds, and are more likely to be blacklisted by Amazon.

How to Improve Streaming Quality

If you experience buffering or low-quality playback, try these optimization tips:

Optimize Your VPN Connection

• • Use WireGuard (NordVPN, Surfshark) or Lightway (ExpressVPN) for faster, more stable connections.
  • Connect to a VPN server closest to your actual location to reduce latency.

Adjust Amazon Prime Video Playback Settings

• • Go to Settings > Playback and select the highest available quality.
  • Disable data saver mode if using mobile data.

Reduce Network Congestion

• • Avoid streaming on multiple devices simultaneously.
  • Restart your router or switch to 5 GHz Wi-Fi instead of 2.4 GHz for better speeds.

Use an Ethernet Connection

• • If possible, connect your streaming device via an Ethernet cable for a stable connection.

Recommended Settings for HD and 4K Streaming

To get the best picture quality, use these settings:

Setting	HD (1080p)	4K (Ultra HD)
Internet Speed	Minimum 5 Mbps	Minimum 15-25 Mbps
Amazon Quality Setting	High / Best Available	Highest / Best Available
Wi-Fi Frequency	5 GHz preferred	5 GHz / Ethernet
VPN Protocol	WireGuard / Lightway	WireGuard / Lightway
Device Compatibility	Fire Stick, Smart TVs, Consoles	Fire Stick 4K, Apple TV 4K, Roku Ultra

Additional Tips:

• Turn Off Other Streaming Devices to avoid bandwidth competition.
• Ensure Your Device Supports 4K (e.g., Fire TV Stick 4K, Apple TV 4K, NVIDIA Shield).
• Update Your Amazon Prime Video App for the latest performance improvements.

Final Thoughts

Streaming Amazon Prime Video from any country is possible with the right tools and settings. Using a premium VPN, optimizing your network, and configuring your device properly ensures smooth, high-quality playback. Follow the best practices above, and enjoy uninterrupted streaming anywhere in the world!

FAQs (People Also Ask Section)

Can I use a free VPN to watch Amazon Prime Video?

Technically, yes—but in practice, it’s rarely effective. Amazon Prime Video has advanced VPN detection technology that blocks most free VPNs. Free VPNs like Hola VPN or Betternet often fail because:

• They use shared, blacklisted IP addresses.
• They have slow servers, leading to buffering and poor streaming quality.
• They lack obfuscation techniques to bypass VPN blocks.

If you want to successfully stream Amazon Prime Video from another country, use a premium VPN like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark, which offer dedicated IPs and optimized streaming servers.

Why is my VPN not working with Amazon Prime Video?

If your VPN isn’t working with Amazon Prime Video, it could be due to:

• IP Blacklisting – Amazon actively blocks known VPN server IPs.
• DNS or WebRTC Leaks – If your real location leaks, Amazon detects it.
• Poor VPN Choice – Some VPNs lack streaming-optimized servers.
• Cookies & Cache – Stored data can reveal your actual location.

Solutions:

• Use a stealth or obfuscated VPN server in New Zealand (offered by ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, etc.).
• Enable DNS leak protection in your VPN settings.
• Clear your cookies and browser cache before streaming.
• Try switching to a different VPN server (some locations may work better than others).

How do I switch my Amazon Prime Video region on a Firestick?

To change your Amazon Prime Video region on Firestick, follow these steps:

Change Your Amazon Account Country:

• • Go to Amazon Account Settings.
  • Click Country/Region Settings > Change and enter a new address.
  • Update payment details if required.

Use a VPN on Firestick:

• • Download ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or IPVanish from the Amazon App Store.
  • Connect to a server in your desired country.

Restart Firestick & Amazon Prime App:

• • Go to Settings > Applications > Manage Installed Applications > Amazon Prime Video and clear the cache.
  • Restart Firestick and launch Prime Video.

After these steps, you should see the content library of your new region.

Does Amazon Prime Video block Smart DNS services?

Yes, Amazon Prime Video aggressively blocks many Smart DNS services, such as Unlocator and Getflix. Unlike VPNs, Smart DNS doesn’t encrypt your data but reroutes only certain parts of your traffic.

Some Smart DNS providers, like SmartDNSProxy and StreamLocator, still work by frequently updating their DNS servers. However, if Smart DNS stops working:

• Try switching to a different Smart DNS server location.
• Use a premium VPN with obfuscation (such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN).
• If using a router-based Smart DNS, restart your router to get a new IP.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Summary of the Best Ways to Stream Amazon Prime Video Globally

Accessing Amazon Prime Video from any country requires smart workarounds due to regional restrictions. The best methods include:

• Using a Reliable VPN – Services like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark offer fast speeds and global server coverage to unblock Prime Video.
• Smart DNS Services – Providers like SmartDNSProxy allow you to bypass geo-restrictions without affecting internet speed.
• Amazon Household & Gift Cards – If VPNs aren’t an option, creating an Amazon Household account or using Amazon Gift Cards can help access content in different regions.

Choosing the Right Method Based on Your Needs

• If you want the most reliable solution, a premium VPN is the best choice. Ensure it has optimized servers for Amazon Prime Video and works consistently.
• If you want faster speeds for streaming, a Smart DNS service is ideal since it doesn’t encrypt data like a VPN.
• If you’re looking for a cost-effective workaround, changing your Amazon region using gift cards or Amazon Household can work, though it’s less flexible.

Further Resources for Streaming Without Restrictions

To ensure uninterrupted access to Amazon Prime Video, check out these resources:

• Amazon Prime Video Help Center – Official guidelines on supported regions: amazon.com/help
• VPN Service Comparisons – Websites like TechRadar, Tom’s Guide, and Comparitech regularly test VPNs for streaming.
• ISP & Router Compatibility – Some ISPs block VPNs, so check if your router supports VPN configurations for seamless streaming.

By choosing the right method, you can enjoy Amazon Prime Video from anywhere without restrictions. Whether you’re traveling, living abroad, or just want access to another country’s library, these solutions will help you stream hassle-free.The Importance of Bypassing Restrictions Legally

While VPNs and proxies are common solutions to bypass geo-restrictions, it’s crucial to do so legally to avoid violating Amazon’s terms of service in New Zealand.