How To Watch BBC iPlayer In Canada? [January 2024 Guide]

Is BBC iPlayer available in Canada? No, BBC iPlayer is not officially available in Canada. It is geo-restricted to the UK due to licensing agreements. To access BBC iPlayer in Canada, viewers can use a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN to connect to a UK server.

BBC iPlayer is a treasure trove of British TV shows, movies, and documentaries, like Celebrity Masterchef, Bluey, and much more. But is unfortunately not directly accessible in Canada due to broadcasting rights.

However, with the right tools and knowledge in your hands, you can watch BBC iPlayer in Canada seamlessly. We’ll walk you through the steps to learn how to get BBC iPlayer in Canada in this blog. So, let’s get started.


How do I Watch BBC iPlayer in Canada in 2024? [in 5 Steps]

Worried about how can I get British TV in Canada? To watch British TV like BBC iPlayer in Canada, follow these simple steps below:

  1. Subscribe to ExpressVPN.
  2. Install and configure the VPN app on your device, then log in.
  3. Connect to a British server, preferably Docklands.
  4. Visit the BBC iPlayer website, create a free account, and sign in.
  5. There you go, enjoy limitless access to BBC iPlayer content on your devices.

Note: If you don’t have an account on BBC iPlayer yet, just sign up for a BBC iPlayer account to watch your favorite content on the platform.

Watch BBC iPlayer in Canada with ExpressVPNRisk-free 30 days money-back guarantee

How Do I Get BBC iPlayer Canada in 2024? [Video Tutorial]

For all those who seem to be struggling with how to get BBC in Canada. Don’t worry! Check out this video to learn:


Why a VPN is needed to Stream BBC iPlayer in Canada?

A VPN is essential for accessing BBC iPlayer in Canada due to copyright and distribution laws. These laws restrict BBC iPlayer’s content to UK audiences. A VPN helps bypass these restrictions by masking your Canadian IP address with a UK one.

So, if you are wondering why can’t I watch BBC iPlayer in Canada, this is probably why you will need a VPN to bypass its geo-blocks in Canada. When we tried to access BBC iPlayer in Canada without a VPN, we got the below geo-error message:

“BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to the right issues.”

geo-restriction-error-bbc-select-canada

Geo-error message on BBC iPlayer in Canada

When you try to log into BBC iPlayer from Canada, it tracks your IP address and restricts your access if you are not in the UK. Therefore, you need a VPN like ExpressVPN to hide your real IP address to get BBC iPlayer in Canada.


How to Sign Up for a BBC iPlayer Account in Canada?

It is a simple process. All you need to do is follow the below steps to know why you need to register for BBC iPlayer. And how to get a BBC iPlayer Canada subscription for free:

how-do-i-get-bbc-iplayer-sign-in-canada

Sign In on the BBC website.

  • Select ‘Register Now’ to create a new account.

register-now-bbc-iplayer-canada

Select Register Now.

  • Confirm your age by entering your date of birth (16 or over).

geo-error-bbc-iplayer-canada

Finish your Registration and start streaming.

  • Provide your credentials and choose ‘United Kingdom’ as your country. If you’re using a UK VPN server, it will default to the United Kingdom.
  • If asked about having a TV license, click ‘Yes’ to access BBC live stream and online content in Canada.
  • Congratulations! You’re now successfully registered on BBC iPlayer in Canada.

Note: And if, at any point in time, you feel like you no longer want the BBC streaming service Canada, you can also delete BBC iPlayer at your convenience.

Get ExpressVPN for BBC iPlayer in CanadaRisk-free 30 days money-back guarantee

Which VPN is Best for BBC iPlayer in Canada? [Quick Comparison]

We have picked out the top 5 best VPNs for BBC iPlayer in Canada. So, if you are here to know which VPN still works with BBC iPlayer? Check out the table below:

VPNs Total Server Count Simultaneous Connections Price
ExpressVPN 3000 servers in 105 countries 8 CA$ 9.17/mo (US$ 6.67/mo)
Surfshark 3200 servers in 100 countries Unlimited CA$ 3.42/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee
NordVPN 5999 servers in 61 countries 6 CA$ 5.49/mo (US$ 3.99/mo)
CyberGhost 6000+ servers in 88+ countries 7 CA$3.78/mo (US$2.75/mo) (Save 79% on 1-year plan)
IPVanish 2000+ servers in 75+ countries Unlimited CA$ 4.22/mo

What are The Best VPNs To Watch BBC iPlayer in Canada? [Detailed Analysis]

The best VPNs for BBC iPlayer in Canada include; ExpressVPN for its speed and reliability, Surfshark for its affordability, and NordVPN for its extensive server network and more.

Moreover, the above 5 best VPNs for BBC iPlayer in Canada have been shortlisted. Each VPN offers unique features to ensure a smooth streaming experience.

Check the detailed analysis in the section below:

1. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for BBC iPlayer

3,000+ Servers, including servers in 4 UK locations| 8 Multi-Logins | 94 Countries |Best Offer: CA$ 9.17/mo (US$ 6.67/mo)(Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free)

When it comes to streaming, ExpressVPN stands out as the best BBC iPlayer VPN in Canada. Its unmatched ability to bypass geo-restrictions and downloading speed of 92.26 Mbps to unblock BBC iPlayer in Canada, makes it the recommended VPN for accessing BBC iPlayer’s extensive library.

However, relatively pricier than most other VPNs in the market, ExpressVPN offers extremely reliable features that make it worth the cost.

With some of the fastest speeds among its competitors and security features that prioritize the user, ExpressVPN performs consistently when it comes to unblocking BBC iPlayer from Canada and lets you watch BBC programs in 4K streams without any buffering.

bbc-iplayer-unblocked-by-expressvpn-in-canada

BBC iPlayer smoothly unblocked by ExpressVPN

Recommended servers: Docklands, London.

ExpressVPN boasts a range of UK servers, with locations in London, Wembley, and Docklands being particularly effective for BBC iPlayer.

These servers not only provide reliable access to BBC iPlayer but also maintain high streaming speeds, ensuring a buffer-free viewing experience.

Its no-logs policy makes it safe, while its 8 simultaneous logins make it a great option for a group of people looking to invest in a premium VPN. Read more about ExpressVPN’s review for Canada.

It recorded a download speed of 92.26Mbps and 89.45Mbps of upload speed on a 100 Mbps connection. It was faster than we expected.

Expressvpns-speed-test-on-100-mbps

Speed test results of ExpressVPN

Security is a paramount concern, and ExpressVPN delivers advanced encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch feature. These security measures ensure that your online activities remain private and secure, especially when accessing content from overseas.

Does ExpressVPN work with BBC iPlayer? Owing to its stable infrastructure, you can stream your favorite geo-blocked content on BBC iPlayer without any lag or interruptions by using ExpressVPN.

In our opinion, ExpressVPN is the best BBC iPlayer VPN by all means, making it the perfect choice if you’re wondering where to watch BBC in Canada.


Pros

  • Blazing fast servers
  • Military-grade AES 256 encryption
  • Threat Manager and Lightway Protocol
  • 30-days money back guarantee
  • 24/7 customer support


Cons

  • Slightly more expensive than other VPNs.
  • Mobile applications may have some glitches.


Watch BBC iPlayer Canada with ExpressVPNRisk-free 30 days money-back guarantee

2. Surfshark – Budget-friendly VPN for Watching BBC iPlayer

3,200+ Servers, including servers in 4 UK locations | Unlimited Multi-Logins | 65 Countries |Best Offer: CA$ 3.42/mo (US$ 2.49/mo)- Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee

Surfshark has established itself as a budget-friendly VPN choice that doesn’t compromise on quality, especially for those looking to watch BBC iPlayer in Canada.

Its affordability, coupled with robust features and fast streaming speed, make it an attractive option for streaming enthusiasts.

surfshark-unblocked-bbc-iplayer-ca

Surfshark unblocks UK TV on BBC iPlayer in Canada.

Recommended servers: Manchester, London, Edinburgh.

Users have had great success with servers located in London, Edinburgh, and Manchester for accessing BBC iPlayer. These servers not only facilitate access to BBC content but also maintain a stable and fast connection.

Moreover, it offers unlimited simultaneous connections, which makes it all the more irresistible.

In our speed test, Surfshark delivered 88.14 Mbps of download speed and 83.72 Mbps of upload speed on a 100 Mbps base connection.

surfshark-speedtest-for-bbc-iplayer

Surfshark speed test results

One of Surfshark’s strengths is its consistent streaming speed, which is essential for a smooth viewing experience. This speed is crucial not just for BBC iPlayer but also for accessing other geo-restricted streaming services in Canada.

Surfshark doesn’t skimp on security despite its lower price point. It offers AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch feature, ensuring your online activities are secure and private.

Check out our review on Surfshark VPN for Canada to get more information.


Pros

  • Affordable pricing
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • 256-bit encryption and no backlogs
  • 30-days money back guarantee
  • 24/7 customer support


Cons

  • Weak presence on social media


Watch BBC iPlayer with Surfshark in Canada30 days money-back guarantee

3. NordVPN – Largest Server Network VPN for BBC iPlayer

NordVPN stands out as a powerful VPN for unblocking BBC iPlayer and other streaming services in Canada, thanks to its extensive server network, with more than 440 servers in the UK alone.

This VPN is renowned for its combination of speed, reliability, and a vast array of server options, making it a top choice for accessing international content.

nord-vpn-unblocks-bbc-iplayer-ca

NordVPN unblocks BBC iPlayer in Canada

Recommended servers: London.

NordVPN boasts one of the largest collections of UK servers, enhancing its ability to unblock BBC iPlayer. Users often find servers in London and Glasgow particularly effective for streaming BBC content.

These servers are not only reliable for BBC iPlayer but also offer high-speed connections, crucial for a smooth streaming experience.

In our speed testing, NordVPN delivered 86.49 Mbps of download speed and 79.42 Mbps of upload speed on a 100 Mbps connection.

nordvpn-speedtest

NordVPN speed test results

NordVPN is known for its impressive streaming speeds, ensuring that viewers can enjoy their favorite shows and movies without buffering. This speed is beneficial not only for BBC iPlayer but also for accessing other geo-restricted platforms in Canada.

Security is a paramount feature of NordVPN. It offers top-tier AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a Double VPN for an extra layer of security.

These features ensure that your streaming activities remain private and secure, especially when accessing content from different regions.

Not just this, NordVPN can easily connect to all major devices and provides Mac, iOS, Android, Windows, and Linux apps. It connects 6 devices simultaneously.

Its only major con is that its desktop app may take slightly longer to connect. Learn in detail about NordVPN’s features in the Review of NordVPN for Canada.


Pros

  • Largest server network
  • 256-bit encryption available along with IKEv4 and IPsec protocols
  • 30-days money back guarantee
  • 24/7 customer support


Cons

  • IP Addresses remain static
  • Some applications may have some glitches


Watch BBC iPlayer in Canada with NordVPN30 days money-back guarantee

4. CyberGhost – User-friendly VPN for BBC iPlayer

CyberGhost is recognized as the most user-friendly VPN for unblocking BBC iPlayer in Canada, making it an ideal choice for those new to VPNs or who prefer a smooth streaming experience.

Its intuitive interface and easy-to-navigate features simplify the process of accessing international content like BBC iPlayer with a network of 6000+ servers in 88+ countries with servers located in UK to swiftly unblock BBC iPlayer free in Canada.

cyberghost-unblocks-bbc-iplayer-ca

CyberGhost unblocks BBC iPlayer in Canada

CyberGhost offers a selection of UK servers that are optimized for streaming. Users particularly recommend the servers in London and Manchester for their reliability in unblocking BBC iPlayer.

These servers not only provide access to BBC content but also ensure a stable and fast streaming experience.

When we tested CyberGhost, it gave us amazing speed results. We received a download speed of 75.12 Mbps and an upload speed of 39.48 Mbps on a 100Mbps connection.

cyberghost-speed-test

CyberGhost speed test results on 100 Mbps.

CyberGhost is known for its consistent streaming speeds, which are essential for watching high-definition content without interruptions.

It allows seven simultaneous connections on multiple devices with a single account. CyberGhost is compatible with iPhones, iPads, tablets, laptops, PCs, smartphones, Smart TVs, and gaming consoles.

CyberGhost doesn’t compromise on security. It offers robust AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and an automatic kill switch.

The security features also include top-notch, like split tunneling, and malware filtering crucial for maintaining privacy and security, especially when accessing streaming services from different regions.

Moreover, it also comes at a fantastic rate of CA$3.78/mo (US$2.75/mo) (Save 79% on a 1-year plan) which is amazing. Subscribe to CyberGhost now and get BBC iPlayer Firestick Canada.


Pros

  • Affordable pricing plans
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • 45-days money back guarantee


Cons

  • Limited security features
  • Occasional slow speed



5. IPVanish – Reliable VPN for Streaming BBC iPlayer

IPVanish has earned its reputation as the most reliable VPN for streaming BBC iPlayer in Canada.

It stands out for its consistent performance and robust server network, making it a go-to choice for those seeking uninterrupted access to BBC iPlayer’s diverse content library.

It has a server network of 2000+ servers in 75+ countries with its UK servers efficiently unblocking BBC iPlayer in Canada.

ipvanish-unblock-bbc-iplayer-ca

IPVanish unblocks BBC iPlayer in Canada

IPVanish provides several UK servers that are specifically optimized for streaming. The servers in London and Manchester are highly recommended for their reliability in accessing BBC iPlayer.

These servers not only facilitate smooth access to BBC content but also maintain high-speed connections, essential for a quality streaming experience.

When we tested IPVanish, the speed test results were quite satisfactory while streaming BBC iPlayer. It gave us a download speed of 70.05 Mbps and an upload speed of 32.15 Mbps on a 100Mbps connection.

ip-vanish-speed-test-results

IPVanish speed test on a 100 Mbps connection!

IPVanish is notable for its high streaming speeds, which are crucial for watching content without buffering or lag. This speed is beneficial not only for BBC iPlayer but also for accessing other geo-restricted streaming platforms in Canada.

IPVanish offers strong security features, including AES-256 encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch. These features ensure that your streaming activities are secure and private, particularly important when accessing international content.

It allows unlimited simultaneous connections on multiple devices with a single account subscription. It is supported by iPhones, iPads, tablets, laptops, PCs, gaming consoles, and much more.

Currently, it is priced at CA$ 4.22/mo. So what’s the wait for now, get IPVanish and unblock BBC iPlayer on PS5.


Pros

  • Fast connection speed
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Secure encryption controls
  • No logs policy


Cons

  • Limited servers
  • Expensive than other VPNs



What are the Criteria to Choose the Best VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Canada?

When choosing a VPN for BBC iPlayer, consider factors like the ability to consistently unblock BBC iPlayer, a strong presence of UK servers, unlimited bandwidth for uninterrupted streaming, and robust encryption for secure viewing.

We shortlisted the VPNs on the following criteria:

  • Ability to unblock All BBC iPlayer content, BBC channels in Canada, and other streaming services.
  • Multiple U.K. servers to connect to.
  • Must have unlimited bandwidth.
  • Connections that deliver fast and stable TV streams.
  • High-quality encryption and privacy features.
  • No user logs can identify your location.

Is it free to make a BBC iPlayer account in Canada?

If you’re wondering, is BBC iPlayer in Canada free? The answer is yes, you can make a BBC iPlayer account for free without worrying about BBC iPlayer Subscription Cost. All you need to do is register your account on the platform, and you are all set to watch BBC iPlayer in Canada.

Now comes the question of how to watch BBC in Canada for free since it’s a geo-restricted platform. To access BBC iPlayer in Canada, you’ll need to subscribe to a premium VPN service, which does involve a monthly fee. Therefore, when considering whether is BBC iPlayer free, it’s important to note that you may incur costs for the VPN service.

But you can also get a free VPN; in that way, you can get BBC iPlayer for free in Canada as well. However, we do not recommend a free VPN for BBC iPlayer in Canada.

Watch BBC iPlayer in Canada with ExpressVPNRisk-free 30 days money-back guarantee

What to Watch on BBC iPlayer in Canada in 2024?

BBC iPlayer offers a vast array of content in Canada, including popular shows like ‘Peaky Blinders‘, ‘Doctor Who‘, and ‘Line of Duty‘, as well as a selection of critically acclaimed movies and live sports events.

What Shows Can I Watch on BBC iPlayer in 2024?

Here is a list of all the top BBC iPlayer Canada shows in 2024:

Top shows on BBC iPlayer

Making Out Wisting Control Room
Death in Paradise Small Axe The Warship: Tour of Duty
Beyond Paradise Superworm Rillington Palace
The Cleaner Dragons Den Lagging
Rain Dogs World on Fire Informer
Rillington Place Sherlock Peter Rabbit
Millie in Between Cunk on Earth Parkinson at 50

What movies and documentaries does BBC iPlayer have in Canada?

Here is a list of all the latest BBC iPlayer films and popular documentaries available:

Top movies on BBC iPlayer

Drugslands Going Country An Irish Goodbye
Halloween The Last Right
Doctor Zhivago Sully
Spider-Man: Far from home Mud
The Beach Kung Fu Panda 3
Ready Player One Notebook
Moonstruck Fast Girls

Can you Watch live sports on BBC iPlayer in Canada?

Does BBC iPlayer Show Live Sports? Yes, it does show live sports and also has other sports programs available for streaming as well.

Six Nations Northern Irish Premier League Formula 1 Race England Vs New Zealand T20I Series
Bellator 292 FA Cup FA Women’s Super League

What’s New on BBC iPlayer in January 2024?

Here’s a list of the latest releases for you to enjoy on BBC iPlayer in January 2024:

Absolute Genius with Dick and Dom Citizen Kane
Absolute Genius Super Tech with Dick & Dom SOS Extreme Rescues 2024
Waterloo Road Series 13 Domino Day
Gladiators The Agency: Unfiltered Series 2
Silent Witness Series 27 Bad Education Series 5
The Apprentice 2024 The Traitors Series 2
Amanda and Alan’s Italian Job Series 2 Lost Boys and Fairies

What channels are available on BBC iPlayer in Canada?

You can access various BBC channels on iPlayer, including BBC One, BBC Two, and BBC News.

Below is a complete list of all the BBC iPlayer Canada channels that are currently available on iPlayer, including BBC One:

Channels on BBC iPlayer

BBC One BBC Two
BBC Three BBC Four
CBeebies CBBC
BBC News BBC Parliament
BBC Alba S4C
BBC Scotland Radio1

On Which Devices Can I Watch BBC iPlayer in Canada?

Compatible devices include smartphones, tablets, Smart TVs, and gaming consoles, ensuring you can enjoy BBC content on any device.

BBC iPlayer can be played on multiple devices. It allows 7 simultaneous connections on a single account. Below is a list of all the BBC iPlayer multiple devices that are compatible:

Compatible devices

Apple TV Chromecast
Roku iOS
Windows and Mac Amazon Firestick
Android PS4/PS5
Smart TV Xbox

How do I get BBC iPlayer on my Android Phone?

Can you watch BBC iPlayer in Canada on Android? Yes, you can. Just follow these simple steps to download the BBC iPlayer app on your Android devices in Canada and enjoy your favorite content for free.

  1. Subscribe to a reliable VPN service. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Connect to its UK server (Recommended: Docklands).
  3. Go to Play Store, and click on Account.
  4. Switch your location on the Play Store to the UK.
  5. Download the BBC iPlayer App from the Google Play Store.
  6. Log in to the BBC iPlayer app to watch BBC in Canada, including BBC One Canada shows.

Note: Other than getting BBC iPlayer on Android, now you may also proudly flaunt by saying that you get BBC iPlayer on my Smart TV.

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Is there a BBC iPlayer App for iOS?

Does BBC iPlayer work in Canada? No, but to make it work, you can just follow the below steps and install the BBC iPlayer app on your iOS devices in Canada:

  1. Log out of your current iCloud account.
  2. Connect to ExpressVPN and select a UK-based server (Recommended: Docklands).
  3. Create a new account by setting the UK as your location.
  4. Download the BBC iPlayer app Canada on your iOS device from the Apple store.
  5. Once downloaded, enjoy streaming BBC iPlayer Canada for free.

Note: To read more about BBC iPlayer on iOS devices, you can skim through our guide.

Get ExpressVPN for BBC iPlayer CanadaRisk-free 30 days money-back guarantee

How Do I get BBC iPlayer on Windows & Mac?

Can I watch BBC iPlayer on my Mac? Yes, you can. If you are wondering how to use BBC iPlayer in Canada, then below are the steps to download and install BBC iPlayer on Windows and Mac:

  1. Subscribe to a premium VPN service such as ExpressVPN.
  2. Download and install VPN on your Windows and Mac.
  3. Connect to a UK server (Recommended: Docklands).
  4. Go to the BBC iPlayer website and sign in with your credentials.
  5. Voila! Start BBC streaming Canada on Windows and Mac.
Get ExpressVPN for BBC iPlayer CanadaRisk-free 30 days money-back guarantee

How do I get a VPN to Work on BBC iPlayer?

Are you wondering why can’t I watch BBC iPlayer with my VPN? There can be many reasons of BBC iPlayer not working in Canada, such as:

  • BBC iPlayer blacklists the VPN servers.
  • The device’s GPS location and the location from your IP address do not match.
  • Your VPN is not equipped enough to go around the geo-blocks of BBC iPlayer.
  • Your location is getting leaked.

Some troubleshooting tips can come in handy for you, like:

  • Disconnect and try a different VPN server.
  • Set up the VPN on your home WIFI router or a virtual router instead of using the VPN app.
  • Clear your cookies to avoid BBC proxy errors.
  • Flush your DNS cache.
  • Turn off your GPS on the device.
  • Perform a “hard” refresh to clean out your entire browser cache.

Which VPN Services to Avoid for BBC iPlayer?

Based on our testing, the following VPN providers should be avoided for BBC iPlayer as they were not able to block it:

VPNs to avoid for BBC iPlayer

Private Internet Access (PIA) IPVanish BBC iPlayer
Betternet TunnelBear BBC iPlayer
ProtonVPN SuperVPN
HideMyAss Hide. me
VPNBook VPNTunnel

BBC iPlayer in Canada – FAQs

No, BBC iPlayer is not available in Canada as it’s exclusively for UK users. However, you can access it in Canada using a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN by connecting to their UK server.

Yes, only when accessing it with a VPN. Registering a BBC iPlayer account in Canada with a valid UK postcode is possible due to a spoofed UK location. The service doesn’t verify the UK postal code, so with a UK IP address, you can stream all content in Canada.


No. BBC iPlayer will most likely detect that you are using a proxy and prevent you from watching the show. It’s better to opt for a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN instead.


No, using a VPN to access BBC iPlayer in Canada is not illegal, as VPNs are legal in Canada. However, using a VPN to access iPlayer may violate the service’s terms of use, as it is intended for UK residents only. This could lead to your access being blocked or restricted by BBC iPlayer.


Yes, you can watch BBC in Canada with a free VPN, but we strongly discourage it due to security risks and potential server blacklisting by BBC iPlayer. Free VPNs often provide slow speeds and frequent interruptions from ads, posing risks to your confidential information.


Yes, it does work for BBC iPlayer. If you want to access BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world, you can easily use SmartDNS Proxy as it is a secure method for online streaming.



Final Verdict

BBC iPlayer is one of the famous UK-based streaming platforms, but it is only accessible to UK residents, and it is not available in Canada without a VPN. In this article, we have covered all the information regarding using VPNs to unblock BBC iPlayer in Canada.

We recommend ExpressVPN as the best one for unblocking BBC iPlayer Canada. So, what are you waiting for? Subscribe to ExpressVPN today and access BBC iPlayer in Canada to start streaming your favorite shows.