How to Watch Hotstar From Anywhere With a VPN in 2025

JioHotstar (formerly Disney+ Hotstar) is the go-to platform for cricket matches, Indian shows, and several blockbuster Bollywood movies. However, it’s only available in India, so viewers from outside the country will be faced with blocks when trying to stream it.

Can I watch Hotstar outside India? Yes. Disney+ Hotstar and Hotstar still operate separately in some countries. However, their libraries differ quite a bit from JioHotstar in India. A VPN lets you stream Hotstar in HD from anywhere. Plus, it encrypts your connection and hides your real IP address to keep your streaming private. At the same time, this can prevent ISP throttling from causing buffering during peak hours.

After testing 45+ VPNs, my top recommendation for Hotstar is ExpressVPN. It provides fast speeds and reliable virtual Indian servers for smooth streaming. Plus, it’s super easy to set up on routers, so you can stream Hotstar on your big screen. You can test it risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied, it’s easy to 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.

Watch JioHotstar in HD >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Watching JioHotstar in 2025

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.

How to Watch JioHotstar With a VPN on Any Device — The Ultimate Guide

Using a VPN to stream JioHotstar is simple on most devices, but the setup process depends on your specific device. For instance, installing a VPN on devices with native app support is simple and takes just a few minutes. This includes Windows PCs, Macs, smartphones, tablets, Apple TV, Android TV, and Amazon Fire TV devices.

However, some streaming devices don't support VPN apps directly. For these devices, you'll need to set up your VPN at the router level to ensure secure streaming access to JioHotstar.

Computers, Mobile Devices, and Smart TVs

1. Get a VPN

Choose a VPN that offers reliable Indian servers. I recommend ExpressVPN because it offers fast speeds and reliable virtual Indian servers for smooth streaming. Visit the VPN provider's website, select a subscription plan, and complete your purchase. Most premium VPNs offer a money-back guarantee, so you can test their service risk-free.

ExpressVPN offers a money-back guarantee for first-time users, so you can test it risk-free

2. Install the VPN App

If you’re on a computer, download the app from your VPN provider’s website. Android users can get the app from the Google Play Store, while iOS users can download it from the App Store.

For smart TVs, find your VPN in the app store (Apple TV App Store, Google Play Store for Android TV, or Amazon App Store for Fire TV). After installation, launch the app and log in with your account credentials.

3. Connect to a Server

Open your VPN app and look for the server list or location menu. Not many VPNs offer Indian servers, but if so, they are usually virtual (it provides an Indian IP, but the server is physically in another country). You might also have the option to select specific cities, so choose the location closest to you for the best speeds. Wait for the connection confirmation before proceeding.

We could stream Disney+ Hotstar in full HD using ExpressVPN's India (via Singapore) server

4. Start Streaming JioHotstar

Open the JioHotstar app or website and log into your account. You're now ready to enjoy IPL matches and Indian shows in high definition without interruptions.

You can watch shows labeled as free on Hotstar without needing an account

Roku and Other Streaming Devices

Some streaming devices like Roku, certain smart TVs, and gaming consoles don't support VPN apps directly. For these devices, you'll need to set up your VPN at the router level. Here’s how to do it:

1. Choose a Router-Compatible VPN

Choose a VPN that offers router support and provides detailed setup guides. I recommend ExpressVPN because it’s super easy to set up and use. The VPN offers custom router firmware and excellent 24/7 support for router configuration.

2. Set Up Your Router

Visit your VPN provider's website and download the router firmware for your specific model. Most providers support popular router brands like Asus, Linksys, and Netgear. Follow your provider's step-by-step installation guide — the exact process varies by router model but typically involves accessing your router's admin panel and updating its firmware.

3. Connect to a Server

Access your router's admin panel through your web browser. Navigate to the VPN settings section and select a server from the list. We used ExpressVPN’s India (via Singapore) virtual server since it’s the closest to our testing location. Wait for the connection confirmation before proceeding.

4. Start Streaming JioHotstar

Download the JioHotstar app on your streaming device, sign in to your account, and start watching your favorite content. Since your router is now handling the VPN connection, all connected devices can stream JioHotstar securely.

Note: Many VPNs offer smart DNS, but most don't provide Indian servers through this feature, making it unsuitable for streaming JioHotstar. A router-level VPN setup is the most reliable solution for devices without native VPN support.

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.

Where Can I Watch Hotstar Online?

JioHotstar (formerly Disney+ Hotstar) is now the main streaming platform in India after merging with JioCinema in February 2025. This merger was meant to bring all content (including sports, movies, and TV shows) under one platform¹.

That said, you can still stream Disney+ Hotstar in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, where it remains a standalone service offering Hollywood, Bollywood, and regional content. In the UK and Canada, Hotstar is also available, but it doesn’t include Disney+ content. Instead, it focuses on Indian entertainment, sports, and regional programming.

How can I watch Hotstar in the US? Hotstar is discontinued in the US, but some of its content is now available on platforms like Hulu (US) and Tubi (a free, ad-supported service). A selection of its shows and sports events are also distributed through Disney+ and ESPN, depending on the region.

Best VPNs to Watch Hotstar From Anywhere in 2025

When it comes to choosing the right VPN for Hotstar, you need one that not only offers Indian servers but can also handle HD streaming. After putting 30+ VPNs through rigorous testing, we've identified the ones that actually work and consistently deliver smooth streaming. Here’s a comparison of our top picks:

1. ExpressVPN — Fast Speeds to Stream Hotstar in HD Without Lag

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested April 2025

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN we tested for JioHotstar, largely thanks to its proprietary Lightway protocol that's optimized for streaming. During our ExpressVPN tests, we experienced only a minimal speed drop of 12% on its virtual Indian servers. This excellent performance let us stream Reeta Sanyal in full HD without any buffering. Lightway is lightweight, so it consumes less battery, making it perfect for extended streaming sessions.

Its server network is super reliable. Both of its virtual Indian locations worked consistently with JioHotstar during our tests. We also had no issues securely streaming other popular Indian streaming platforms like SonyLIV, ZEE5, Voot, and MX Player. The servers are regularly maintained and updated, ensuring you always have a working connection.

The only real downside is ExpressVPN's higher price point. However, it frequently runs special deals that make it more affordable, often including a few months free with longer purchases. You can try it risk-free since it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. CyberGhost — Hotstar-Optimized Server for Safe Access From Anywhere

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

Unlike many VPNs that make you guess which server works best, CyberGhost offers a server specifically optimized for JioHotstar. To use it, just click the For streaming tab and search for “Hotstar" to connect instantly. CyberGhost’s specialized server worked well with the platform, and we had no trouble streaming content in HD. The speed drop on its Hotstar-optimized connection was only 14%.

The monthly plan is expensive at $2.03/month and only includes a 14-day money-back guarantee. However, the long-term offer gives you much better value, with discounts up to 84% off and a more generous 45-day refund period.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Adjustable Features to Tailor Your Hotstar Connections

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA offers extensive customization options to optimize your JioHotstar streaming experience. You can switch between different protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN. When using OpenVPN, you can even adjust the encryption level from AES-256 to AES-128 for better speeds. During our PIA tests, lowering the encryption slightly improved our streaming speeds on its virtual Indian server.

Its customization options might seem overwhelming at first for VPN beginners. However, the app comes pre-configured for immediate use. It's also one of the most affordable options for watching JioHotstar, with plans starting at $2.03/month. You can test all its features risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs to Stream JioHotstar Online

My team and I first verified that each VPN could securely access JioHotstar. We then evaluated server performance during different times of day, measuring connection speeds, video quality, and buffering frequency while streaming popular shows. We also tested how well each VPN handled peak streaming hours, particularly during major cricket matches when server loads are highest.

Beyond basic streaming capabilities, we assessed each VPN's security features, app functionality across different devices, and overall reliability with Indian servers. We looked at encryption standards, leak protection, and the ability to get past ISP throttling — all crucial factors for a smooth streaming experience. For a complete breakdown of our testing criteria, you can check our VPN testing methodology page.

How to Sign Up for JioHotstar

Hotstar offers different content libraries across various regions, but the Indian version (JioHotstar) provides the most extensive collection. It includes exclusive IPL cricket coverage, the latest Bollywood releases, popular shows, and the Disney+ catalog.

Sign Up for JioHotstar in India

The signup process for JioHotstar in India is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create an account:

1. Visit the JioHotstar website. Head to JioHotstar's official website. You'll be asked to select your preferred languages, which helps personalize your content recommendations.
2. Choose any title to watch. Browse the homepage and click on any title you want to watch. This will trigger the login/signup process.
3. Enter phone number. You'll see a QR code and phone number entry option. Enter your Indian mobile number or scan the QR code with your phone.
4. Verify OTP. Enter the one-time password (OTP) sent to your mobile number.
5. Create your profile. Enter your name and age to complete your profile setup. You can now start watching free content or subscribe to access premium shows and movies.

Sign Up for Hotstar Outside India

The signup process for Hotstar in other countries like the UK and Canada is more conventional. You just have to visit the local Hotstar website, choose a subscription plan, create an account with your email, and pay using local payment methods. The exact steps and available plans may vary by region.

If you're looking to sign up for Hotstar India from abroad, there are several challenges to consider. You'll need both an Indian phone number for account verification and an Indian payment method for subscription. Even if you obtain these through third-party services, you must maintain access to the phone number for future OTP verifications and account recovery. The process is complicated, potentially unreliable, and might violate Hotstar's terms of service.

FAQs on Watching Hotstar With a VPN

Can I watch JioHotstar for free?

Sort of — you can watch select movies and shows (with ads) on JioHotstar India with a free account. However, you'll need a premium subscription to access the full library and unrestricted live sports streaming. The free version only allows limited minutes of live sports viewing, though some matches may be available for free depending on broadcasting rights. A premium subscription ensures you never miss any content you want to watch.

Can I watch Hotstar in Pakistan and the UAE?

No, JioHotstar isn't officially available in Pakistan and the UAE. There are a few streaming services that offer Hotstar content outside of India, but none of these are available in Pakistan and the UAE.

Is Hotstar available in the US?

No, Hotstar is no longer available in the US. However, some of the content from Hotstar is available on the Hulu and ESPN+ platforms, which are part of the Disney bundle. Due to licensing restrictions, the full Hotstar service is only available in select regions.

What if my VPN isn’t working with Hotstar?

First off, it’s important to choose a reliable VPN that works with JioHotstar. If you're still having trouble, try these simple troubleshooting steps to restore your connection:

• Switch VPN servers. If you’re seeing a proxy error, then the server you’re connected to is detected by the platform. Connecting to a different server should help.
• Clear your browser cache. Your browser might store conflicting data from previous sessions. Clear your cache and cookies, then restart your browser before reconnecting to your VPN.
• Change VPN protocols. Switch between available protocols (like WireGuard or OpenVPN) in your VPN settings. Some protocols work better than others for streaming.
• Update your VPN app. Running an outdated VPN version can cause connectivity issues. Make sure you have the latest version installed.
• Watch on a different device. Try watching Hotstar on a different device. VPN success rates vary across devices, and Reddit users have reported better results with Firestick.
• Contact VPN support. If nothing else works, reach out to your VPN's customer support. Premium providers like ExpressVPN offer 24/7 support to help resolve streaming issues.

Are Disney+ and Hotstar the same?

No, they're different streaming platforms with a complex relationship. JioHotstar (formerly Disney+ Hotstar) was originally Hotstar, an Indian streaming service owned by Disney. In India, it previously combined Disney+ content with Hotstar's local programming under the Disney+ Hotstar brand. However, in early 2025, Hotstar merged with JioCinema to become JioHotstar.

In other countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, the service still operates as Disney+ Hotstar, offering both Disney+ content and local programming. Meanwhile, in markets like the UK and Canada, Hotstar operates as a standalone service focused on Indian content, separate from Disney+.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs to securely watch JioHotstar from anywhere

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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References

1. https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/web-series/jiocinema-and-disney-hotstar-merge-to-form-new-platform-jiohotstar-announce-new-subscription-plans-101739502610427.html/