How to Unblock Snapchat Anywhere in 2024: Works in Cuba

Many WiFi networks use firewalls to block you from using Snapchat. You may encounter these restrictions on your work, school, or public library networks. Some strictly-censored countries (like Cuba and China) ban Snapchat completely.

Thankfully, you can still access your Snapchat using a VPN. This simple app hides your internet traffic, so you can get around firewalls and access your account from anywhere. But not all VPNs can unblock Snapchat reliably.

After testing 40+ VPNs, I recommend ExpressVPN to reliably access Snapchat from anywhere. It offers automatic obfuscation that hides VPN use and lets you use Snapchat in Cuba and other countries with limited internet access.

Plus, it also unblocks the platform consistently on school WiFi networks and workplaces. It’s risk-free to try ExpressVPN as it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. So if you find it’s not for you, you can get a full refund. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Unblock Snapchat With ExpressVPN >>

Important. The vpnMentor team doesn't condone unlawful behavior or breaking the rules. Therefore, always check your region, school, and work regulations to avoid accidentally doing anything wrong. 

Why You Need a VPN to Unblock Snapchat

Many administrators and some high-censorship countries (like Cuba) use firewalls to block Snapchat. These restrictions are usually implemented to prevent distractions and maintain a certain level of productivity or focus. Other times, it's because of licensing agreements. The governments may also impose these restrictions to control the flow of information and suppress dissent.

A VPN hides your online activity and lets you access Snapchat from anywhere. It works by sending your traffic through its private server network and encrypting it. This prevents your network administrator, ISP, and government from seeing which websites and apps you use. Therefore, you don't need to delete your Snapchat account to protect your privacy.

For example, if you’re in Cuba and connect to a VPN server in the US, your traffic will be routed through this server. Snapchat will see the US IP address, and will give you full access to the platform. This means you can use Snapchat in Cuba, China, or other places with limited internet access (like schools).

Best VPNs to Unblock Snapchat From Anywhere in 2024

1. ExpressVPN — Overall Best VPN to Unblock Snapchat on Restrictive Networks

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Tested November 2024

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ExpressVPN is the most reliable at accessing Snapchat. It’s largely because all of its servers use obfuscation, which kicks in automatically on restrictive networks. This lets you hide VPN use and bypass tough firewalls. During my tests, I was able to access Snapchat on my local library’s WiFi, where it’s typically blocked. Our testers in Cuba confirmed that they could also unblock Snapchat without issues.

It’s also the fastest VPN we tested. When we connected to its servers in the Netherlands and the UK from Cuba, we only saw our speed drop by 7% on average. Whether you're on a school network or in a country with limited internet access, you can share and view snaps without any delays.

My speed dropped by only 7.9%, even when connected to servers far away

It also uses obfuscation that is powerful enough to get around strong Snapchat-blocking firewalls. It even works in countries that block VPNs, like China. Obfuscation masks your VPN traffic to make it look like regular internet traffic so the network operator doesn’t detect and block your Snapchat activities.

Your Snapchat activity remains private, thanks to ExpressVPN's military-grade AES 256-bit encryption and IP/DNS leak protection. It also has a powerful kill switch (Network Lock) that ensures that your data never gets accidentally exposed, even if the VPN drops unexpectedly. I tested the kill switch by rapidly switching between servers. Every time I changed, my connection was temporarily paused until I was securely reconnected.

You don’t need to worry about your data being logged and stored. ExpressVPN follows a super strict no-logs policy, which has been proven in court by a leading auditing firm. On top of that, ExpressVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, outside the data-sharing agreement of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances. This means it is not obligated to share data with any third party.

This VPN is a little more expensive than the other services on my list, with prices starting at $4.99/month. Fortunately, ExpressVPN often provides deals and discounts to help you save. I paid 82% less on its long-term subscription and got 3 months free.

All plans are also backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. When I asked for a refund using its 24/7 live chat, the representative asked a few questions and promptly processed my request. The entire conversation took less than 3 minutes. I received the money back in my bank account after 3 days.

2. CyberGhost — User-Friendly Apps to Easily Access Snapchat

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

I unblocked my Snapchat account with CyberGhost's easy-to-use apps in just two clicks. The user interface is simple and uncluttered, allowing you to quickly connect to a server and start Snapping. Plus, you can "favorite" your most used servers, so you don't have to search for them every time. We tested CyberGhost from public libraries that block Snapchat, and could access it within seconds after connecting to a to servers where Snapchat is available.

Servers optimized for streaming make watching your favorite shows straightforward

A WiFi protection feature automatically launches the VPN when you connect to public WiFi. This ensures you're always protected even when connected to risky and malicious networks. I liked this feature because I didn't need to always be on my toes when I wanted to Snapchat my trip overseas.

Like ExpressVPN, it also has AES 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch to keep you safe while using Snapchat. And your personally identifiable information is protected from snoops and hackers, thanks to CyberGhost's strict no-logs policy and headquarters in privacy-friendly Romania.

The only downside is that it doesn't work in China since it can't get around China's infamous Great Firewall. So, it might not be the best option if you are traveling to the country. However, it does work in other tough locations, including Cuba and the UAE.

CyberGhost offers short and long-term plans with prices starting at $2.03/month. As with most VPNs, the monthly subscription is the most expensive, but it's a perfect alternative if you just need a VPN for a limited time.

You can unblock Snapchat with CyberGhost free for 45 days using its money-back guarantee. I contacted its 24/7 online support to test this claim and asked for a refund. The agent asked about my reason for canceling before approving my request. I received all my money in my PayPal account within 4 working days.

3. Private Internet Access — Tons of Servers Worldwide to Unblock Snapchat From Anywhere

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA's global network gives you plenty of options to bypass geo-and-network restrictions. If Snapchat is blocked in your location, you can connect to a server in a country where Snapchat is available — PIA has 53 server locations in the US alone. It also regularly updates its IP addresses, lowering the chances of the network admins detecting and blocking your IP.

Its split tunneling feature allows you to access Snapchat on restricted networks without affecting the performance of other apps. It lets you choose which services use the VPN connection and which connect directly to the internet. For example, you can route Snapchat through the VPN to bypass restrictions while keeping other services (like email or local banking apps) on your regular internet connection. I accessed Snapchat using PIA while browsing local news with my regular connection during my tests.

You can use Split Tunneling on your Windows, Mac, and Linux devices

Its strong encryption protocols ensure that all your Snapchat communications are secure, protecting your snaps, messages, and personal information from prying eyes. The automatic kill switch, IP/DNS leak protection, and no-logs policy further enhance your online privacy.

PIA’s highly-customizable settings could be overwhelming to beginners. However, apps come pre-configured, so you can connect to a server quickly to unblock Snapchat.

There are 3 subscription options available. But, PIA's long-term plan is the most affordable at $2.03/month. Plus, all plans come with a 30-day money-back. To test whether you would get a refund, I contacted customer support via the 24/7 live chat and canceled my plan. I got my money paid to my credit card that same week.

4. NordVPN — Robust Security Features to Use Snapchat Undetected

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN uses obfuscation technology to quickly get around networks blocking Snapchat. Obfuscation disguises your VPN traffic as normal internet traffic, so the network can't tell the difference. To activate NordVPN's obfuscated servers, select it under the "Speciality server" options, choose OpenVPN (TCP) as your protocol, and then turn on the “Obfuscated servers” button. Then, go to your server list and select an obfuscated one.

There are even more advanced security options listed under NordVPN's 'Specialty servers'

I found its dedicated IPs particularly beneficial for unblocking Snapchat. This feature provides you with a unique IP address that isn't shared with other users, reducing the likelihood of that IP being blocked by network administrators or identified as a VPN by automated systems. With a dedicated IP from NordVPN, I constantly accessed Snapchat during my tests, even on networks where it's typically blocked, without facing frequent reconnections or the risk of the IP being blacklisted.

NordVPN also offers several security protocols, including NordLynx, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. NordLynx is NordVPN’s version of WireGuard that also uses double NAT to ensure that none of your data ends up on the server. Nordlynx was always really fast during our tests  — our speeds stayed above 65 Mbps (only 9% drops) when I connected to UK servers. However, our average download speed did take a nose dive when connected to servers in South Korea. These are thousands of miles away from my real location, so it's to be expected.

NordVPN offers 3 plans, starting at $2.99/month. If you’re not ready to commit, you can test NordVPN for 30 days using its money-back guarantee.

5. Surfshark — Many Simultaneous Connections to Access Snapchat on Your Favorite Devices

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfshark permits an unlimited number of devices to connect concurrently under one account. This feature is especially beneficial for households with multiple members using the VPN for diverse purposes, such as securely accessing Snapchat or streaming platforms, like Netflix, from anywhere. The apps boast a neat and intuitive interface, enabling effortless server connection and immediate Snapchat usage.

You can also “favorite” your most used server for easy access next time

I also experienced reliable speeds while using Snapchat with Surfshark. I connected various smartphones, a Windows laptop, and iPad simultaneously and could still send videos and photos instantly. We clocked an average download speed of 51.03 Mbps, about a 13% drop from our base connection of 58.73 Mbps.

Its CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware, providing a safer Snapchat experience. On top of that, your online identity and Snapchat activity get protected by high-level encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection.

Unfortunately, Surfshark is located in the Netherlands, within the scope of the 9-Eyes surveillance alliance. However, it adheres to a no-logs policy, verified and certified by an independent entity. So, your data won't be logged, stored, or shared with anyone.

Surfshark offers 3 subscription plans, starting at $1.99/month. If you want to save money, I recommend the long-term option that includes all the same features. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to try Surfshark risk-free. As confirmed through their 24/7 chat support, refunds are processed quickly, with mine appearing in my PayPal account within 5 working days.

Do This First To Ensure Your VPN Works With Snapchat

At times, it may be necessary to turn off the location settings on Snapchat for your VPN to function properly. If you don't, the GPS of your device can supersede the VPN, preventing it from operating.

This is super easy to do and adds an extra layer of security. If you’re using a VPN to access Snapchat from work or school, it’s important to turn off your location settings when sharing snaps. This ensures no one can track you or find your location based on your snaps or the Snap Map.

For Android:

1. Go to the Settings menu. You can find your settings in your apps list or using Finder Search.
2. Click Apps > Snapchat > Permissions. This takes you to the location permissions for Snapchat.
3. Toggle Location off. Snapchat is no longer allowed to access your GPS to determine your location.

For iOS:

1. Go to Settings > Snapchat. Here you can customize Snapchat’s location settings.
2. Select Location and set it to “Never.” This prevents Snapchat from accessing your true location.

For Desktop:

1. Navigate to the Snapchat website. Log in with your user credentials.
2. Start creating a Snap. You can find this option by clicking Filters and Lenses > Get Started > Create Now.
3. Block Snapchat from accessing your location. You’ll see a small pop-up in your browser telling you that “create.snapchat.com” wants to access your location. Click “Block” or “Don’t Allow” to disable the location settings.

Tips on Choosing a VPN to Unblock Snapchat

I tested dozens of the top VPNs in the market and shortlisted the best ones that unblock Snapchat without issues. But if you want to do your own research, here are the criteria I used to narrow down our search:

• Global server network. A huge server network allows you to spoof your location and access Snapchat from anywhere in the world. Obfuscated servers might be necessary if you’re in an area that restricts VPN use (i.e., China, Cuba, and Iran).
• Fast connection speed. It’s normal to experience slower speeds when using a VPN. However, the speed drop won't be noticeable with a premium VPN.
• Robust security and privacy features. Choose a VPN with AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a reliable no-logs policy. This ensures your security and privacy are protected while using Snapchat.
• Easy to use. Consider a VPN that's quick to set up and straightforward to use, so you can connect to a server and use Snapchat in seconds.
• Device compatibility. Choose a VPN that works with your favorite devices without paying multiple subscriptions.
• Trustworthy money-back guarantee. This proves that the VPN is confident in its service as they let you try it risk-free.

Why You Shouldn’t Use a Free VPN With Snapchat

The majority of free VPNs lack the essential features for reliably unblocking Snapchat. While a few can gain access, they typically provide limited server options, impose data limitations, and often operate at slow speeds. I've experimented with multiple free VPNs; although some managed to unblock Snapchat, the experience was marred by slow performance and frequent freezing at the loading wheel.

In addition, they impose restrictions on your bandwidth, setting a limit on the number of Snapchat photos and videos you can share. These constraints are by design — they deliberately affect your online actions with the intention of compelling you to opt for the paid subscription.

Even worse, they can compromise your online security and privacy by harvesting and selling your data. Free VPNs tend to be full of viruses that could harm your device. For the best experience, I recommend using a premium VPN with a trustworthy money-back guarantee. This way, you can test it risk-free and request a refund if unsatisfied.

FAQs On Unblocking Snapchat Anywhere

Is it legal to use Snapchat with a VPN?

Yes, using Snapchat with a VPN is legal in most countries. If your country doesn’t have laws against the use of VPNs, then it’s not illegal to use one to unblock Snapchat. However, you might want to use a reliable VPN to protect your data and privacy from snoops and hackers.

Additionally, it might be against the policies of your school, workplace, or other institutions that have put network restrictions in place. Misusing a VPN could lead to disciplinary action in these contexts.

How can I use Snapchat in Cuba and China?

If you want to use Snapchat in Cuba, China, or other restrictive countries, your best bet is to use a VPN that provides obfuscated servers. These special servers disguise your VPN use, making it hard for firewalls to notice and stop them. That way, you can enjoy Snapchat freely, no matter where you are.

Can a VPN change my Snapchat location?

Yes. A VPN offers the fastest and easiest way to spoof your Snapchat location. When you connect to a server in a different location, you’re allocated a new IP address from that location. So when you access Snapchat, the platform registers you as if you are from the location of your new IP address.

Can I unblock Snapchat on the school WiFi?

Yes, you can unblock Snapchat on school WiFi using a VPN. A VPN allows you to route your internet traffic through a server in a different location, bypassing network restrictions and enabling access to Snapchat. Ensure to choose a reliable VPN provider for a seamless and secure experience.

Can I unblock Snapchat without a VPN?

Probably not. Although many online guides recommend using a proxy to unblock Snapchat, they often don’t work, and they don’t protect your online privacy. The safest and most straightforward way to unblock Snapchat is with a VPN. Proxies don’t have security features like encryption, leak protection, or kill switches, so they can’t safely and reliably unblock Snapchat.

Why is Snapchat blocked?

Snapchat gets blocked for many different reasons. In schools and workplaces, it’s usually to prevent distraction. National bans are more complicated; governments usually implement these for political or cultural reasons. Only some VPNs can bypass geo-and-network restrictions.

When dealing with extremely-tough firewalls, like that of China, you need powerful VPNs with obfuscation technology, like ExpressVPN, to get around it.

How can I unblock Snapchat on my iPhone?

You can unblock Snapchat on your iPhone using a VPN. To do that, you simply need to download a VPN app from the App Store, sign up, and log in. After that, connect to a server where Snapchat is available, and connect. Usually, any server outside your current network (school, work, etc.) will do.

Can a free VPN unblock Snapchat?

Usually, no. Free VPNs typically aren’t powerful or discrete enough to unblock Snapchat, especially in countries with strict censorship. While some may successfully give you access to the app in less serious situations, like work and school, free VPNs have hidden drawbacks. This usually includes annoying ads, slow servers — and even worse — your information being subject to third-party sales.

Therefore, it’s not worth the risk when you can try out premium VPNs, with their money-back guarantee, and only commit if satisfied with the service. There are usually even discount offers for new subscribers found on VPN websites that can make sign-up costs more affordable.

Start Using Snapchat Within Minutes

Snapchat can be a useful resource and a fun way to connect. However, it's common to encounter restrictions that block you from using it, like at school or work. Fortunately, all the VPNs on this list can easily bypass firewalls and access Snapchat from anywhere.

ExpressVPN is the most reliable way to unblock Snapchat. Its global network of specialized servers makes it easy to unblock Snapchat. Plus, its fast speeds provide reliable connectivity, so you don't miss any real-time videos or stories. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free as it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee — if you're not completely happy with it, you're entitled to a full refund.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for unblocking Snapchat…

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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