How to Watch PBS Outside USA Easily [Updated February 2024]

Avatar of Tyler Willis
Last Updated by on February 8, 2023

How can I watch PBS outside USA? With the help of a premium VPN like ExpressVPN, you can watch PBS outside USA with unlimited streaming without any restrictions.

A VPN will help to get complete access to almost all the blocked sites in any region, whether it is PBS, Hulu, and Netflix.


How to Watch PBS Outside USA 2024

  1. Subscribe to a premium VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Login and connect with a US server.
  3. Visit PBS’s official website and start streaming PBS outside USA.


Why Do You Need a VPN to Unblock PBS Outside USA?

PBS is a US-based broadcasting service that is strictly available for the residents of America and completely geo-restricted outside it.

If someone wants to access PBS outside USA, they will see this notification on the official website of PBS:

We’re sorry, but this video is unavailable in your region due to rights restrictions.

pbs streaming error

But you know what, there is nothing to worry about because we have already found the solution for this so that you can access PBS outside USA.

A premium VPN can unblock sites like PBS by changing the location and IP address if you use ExpressVPN. It will guarantee to protect of your data and provide the proper access to PBS for all shows and movies.


3 Top VPNs to unblock PBS Outside USA [Brief Guide in 2024]

We are sure you need a quick and easy overview of the best VPNs, so here is an outline of 3 VPNs that work best with PBS.

  1. ExpressVPN — It comes with lightning fast VPN connection to ensure you Ultra HD streaming from anywhere at any time. You can access 3000+ global servers, including 20+ location servers in the US. In addition to this, you can save up to 49% on its 1-year plan, cutting the original cost to only $6.71/month.
  2. Surfshark — Features smart DNS to unblock streaming platforms and channels that don’t support the app. You can access 3200+ global servers at low prices, including 20+ US servers. So you will always have something to watch when the cost is $2.30 a month. In addition, you can get an 82% discount on its 2-year plan and an unlimited device connection.
  3. NordVPN — It ensures reliable VPN connection & buffer-free streaming from anywhere. With many servers, you can stream restricted content without violating your privacy. The subscription comes with easy access to 5000+ global servers, including 1970+ servers in the US. In addition, a huge 68% discount is available on its 2-year plan, so you will only need to pay $3.71 a month.


What is PBS, and how can I watch it?

PBS, also known as public broadcasting service, is based in Arlington, Virginia, America. It is a non-commercial free-to-air television network founded on November 3, 1969 (52 years ago). The official launching date was October 5, 1970 (51 years ago).

America’s largest classroom, stage, and trusted window to the world.’ This is how the streaming channel defines itself: they try to provide viewers with the most trusted and informative programming.

You will find much educational content on PBS and many other genres for all age groups, like comedy, drama, education, art, and culture for children, informative documentaries for senior age groups, and comedy and educational shows for youngsters and teenagers.

But unfortunately, it is only available in the US, so you need a premium VPN like ExpressVPN to watch PBS outside USA or anywhere.


3 Best VPNs to watch PBS Outside USA [Detailed Guide Feb 2024]

There are so many types of VPNs available for streaming the blocked sites, but here we have tested 3 industry-leading VPNs for our readers. Check them out!


ExpressVPN — Best VPN to Watch PBS outside USA

  • Ultra-Fast speed with unlimited bandwidth for bufferless streaming.
  • 3000+ Servers in 90+ Countries, including 20+ location servers in US.
  • Comes with five simultaneous device connections
  • Compatible with Windows, MacOS, iOS, Smart TV, Linux, and more.

ExpressVPN has incredible server speed to ensure smooth and high-quality streaming from anywhere. It has 3000+ optimized servers installed in 90+ countries and 20+ location servers in the US only. It comes with Ultra fast connection speed, allowing users to have top-quality streaming without error.

Its high-speed servers can easily unblock geo-restricted streaming platforms, encrypt your data, bypass the IP tracking system, and provide unlimited bandwidth for bufferless streaming.

Regarding device compatibility, ExpressVPN has a dedicated VPN app designed for all compatible devices and routers. It offers five simultaneous device connections that you can run on macOS, iOS, Android, Fire devices, browsers, gaming consoles, routers, smart TVs, and more.

Now, let's talk about its price!

Its yearly subscription will cost you $6.67/month, with an extra three months for free. Furthermore, you can connect up to 5 simultaneous devices with a single subscription.


Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Compatible with all streaming sites
  • Connect up to 6 devices
  • It works in China & UAE
  • Follows Zero Log Policy
  • 7-day free trial

Cons

  • A bit costly service


Surfshark — Affordable VPN to Access PBS outside USA

  • Comes with SmartDNS to unblock content on non-native devices
  • 3,200 servers in 100 countries, including 20+ location servers in the US.
  • Compatible with Android, Windows, Mac, iOS, Linux,  smart TVs, and more
  • Offers minimum price of about $2.30/month with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Surfshark's minimum price tag makes it the most wallet-friendly VPN for streaming. It is equipped with 3000+ global servers in 100 countries, including 20+ location servers in the US. Surfshark stands out among all is non, but it's a Smart DNS server that enables users to access geo-restricted content without a native app.

Moreover, a Surfshark subscription ensures unlimited device connection on all compatible devices, whether Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, smart TVs, or more.

Regarding price, you can expect to have $2.30/month, saving 82% on its two-year plan along with two extra months. It offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee, ultra HD streaming, Unlimited bandwidth, and Zero log policy, all wrapped under its modest pricing plan.


Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Compatible with all streaming sites
  • Connect up to 6 devices
  • It works in China & UAE
  • Follows Zero Log Policy
  • 7-day free trial

Cons

  • Poor Customer Support
  • Some user experience low speed


NordVPN — Reliable VPN to Stream PBS outside USA

  • NordLynx Protocol to help boost streaming experience
  • 5000+ Servers in 60 Countries including 17 location servers in the US.
  • Comes with 6 simultaneous device connections.
  • Compatible with Android, Windows, iOS, Linus, Smart TVs & Routers.

When it comes to reliability, you won't find any other option better than NordVPN!

Apart from its giant web of VPN servers, including 17 server locations in the US, NordVPN has recently launched NordLynx. This new-generation VPN protocol provides an improved connection for an uninterrupted streaming experience.

NordVPN has SmartPlay integration that unblocks various content with its IP spoofing feature. Like Surfshark, NordVPN incorporates its dedicated SmartDNS service that can easily unblock geo-restricted content on devices with no native app.

You can connect Nord with almost all devices, including windows, macOS, Android, Apple, Smart TV, Xbox, PS series, and more. The cost will drastically reduce if you opt for its two-year plan, which will cost you $3.49/per month, six device connections, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.


Pros

  • 5000+ global servers
  • Secure VPN System
  • Zero Logs Policy
  • Works in China and the UAE
  • 24/7 Live Chat Support
  • Military grade Encryption
  • Private DNS System

Cons

  • Little Expensive
  • No app for router


Can I watch PBS outside USA with a free VPN?

Do you think these free VPNs work for streaming channels like PBC? So, no, they don’t work because of their less capability to unblock sites and channels with strong security systems.

After some time, you will face buffering and disconnections, creating interruptions while streaming. They have no stable connection.

Free VPNs are unsafe to use because they don’t follow any privacy policies, keep checking on their subscribers’ online activities, and, most importantly, your private data is not secure with them.

We recommend you play safe and buy a VPN that is low in cost but provides you with a complete and secure connection of your desired streaming site. We recommend ExpressVPN for that.


Criteria to choose the best VPN to watch PBS outside USA

Buying a VPN is a time-consuming process because there are so many VPNs available that cannot unblock some restricted sites, but we make it easy for you.

Before subscribing to any VPN, make sure that it has all these features in it:

  • It must provide complete encryption for a secure streaming experience.
  • They have a fast connection service, so you will not face any interruptions.
  • A large number of servers have an endless run of streaming with backups.
  • You must check the device compatibility of a VPN.
  • 24/7 customer support to troubleshoot any issue or potential bug.

It must be capable of unblocking restricted sites like PBS, Netflix, Hulu, and others.


How to sign up PBS Account outside the USA?

  1. Subscribe to a premium VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Then connect with the US-based server, then go to the PBS website.
  3. Go to the homepage and click on ‘Sign up.’
  4. Now you will see choices of accounts where you can select any of your desired options.
  5. Head to the next option, verification of your account, and now you’re all set to stream PBS content in your region.

How Much Does It Cost to Get PBS Passport?

PBS is not available for everyone because of its different criteria. You first need to become a donor to participating PBS stations. Then, to get the PBS Passport, you need to donate to the station in your town and get the benefit. The requirement of the donation is $60 per year. But this donation amount depends on your state.


How to Watch PBS Outside USA Without Cable?

PBS has its website and App, and you can directly access it; cable is not necessary to access PBS outside the USA. Just subscribe to ExpressVPN, connect with the US server, and enjoy PBS streaming in your region without a cable.


Why is PBS not available outside the USA?

Due to content copyright issues and license agreements, PBS services are unavailable outside the USA. Therefore, it is only accessible to the audience of America.

They have applied geo-restricted policies, meaning its authentic content is only accessible to people living in the USA.

But with the help of premium VPNs like ExpressVPN, you can watch all the streaming sites and channels easily in your region.


Compatible Devices with PBS outside USA

Device compatibility is very important in any streaming site or channel, so here we tell you how you can watch PBS on your device.


For Android Users

  1. Download and install the ExpressVPN app on your Android device
  2. Connect it with the server in the US.
  3. Log in to your new google account.
  4. Look for the PBS app in the Play Store.
  5. Now enjoy PBS on your android device happily!

For iPhone/iPad Users

  1. First, change your Apple ID region to US in Settings > Network.
  2. Go to ExpressVPN on your iOS device.
  3. Connect with the US-based server.
  4. Look for PBS in the Apple app store.
  5. Install the application of PBS and log in.
  6. Now the perfect streaming of PBS.

For Roku Users

  1. Get the ExpressVPN app and connect it to your Wi-Fi router.
  2. Then connect with the US-based server.
  3. Now insert your Roku stick into your smart TV through the HDMI port.
  4. Go to your device and choose PBS on the Roku home screen.
  5. Enjoy the all-PBS streaming!

For PS3/PS4 Users

  1. Download and install ExpressVPN on your device.
  2. Connect with the US server.
  3. Go to the category of TV/Video Services.
  4. From the list of alternatives, look for “PBS.”
  5. Select “Get” from the drop-down menu.
  6. PBS has now been added to your “My Channels” list.
  7. Enjoy all your favorite content on PBS in your region.

For Xbox Users

  1. Download and install ExpressVPN on your device and log in.
  2. Connect with the server in the US.
  3. From the Xbox menu, select “My games & apps.”
  4. Search for “PBS” in the “Xbox Store.”
  5. Now! Click the “Install” button.

For Kodi Users

  1. Download and install a VPN app on your Kodi device. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Connect the Kodi device with your VPN.
  3. Download the VPN software to your computer, save it to a USB stick, and then plug it into your Kodi device.
  4. On your Kodi device, go to Settings, System Settings, and Add-ons.
  5. Now toggle on Unknown Sources.
  6. Install the VPN app on your Kodi device. Connect to a server in the United States after that.
  7. Go to Kodi’s home screen by turning on your TV.
  8. In the end, install the PBS add-on on Kodi to start watching.

For Firestick Users

  1. Open your FireStick and go to search.
  2. Shift to unknown sources, download ExpressVPN, and then connect to the US server.
  3. Add the word ‘PBS’ and press enter.
  4. The search results ‘PBS app for Fire TV Stick’ will appear.
  5. Click ‘Get’ to download the app.
  6. Open the PBS app after installing it.
  7. Go to the PBS app and sign up with your credentials.
  8. Now don't wait and start watching PBS on Firestick.

For Apple TV Users

  1. Pick a VPN service that allows the Smart DNS. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Search your Smart DNS addresses > go to your Apple TV’s Settings menu and select Network at the bottom of the page.
  3. Select your network by pressing the Wi-Fi button.
  4. Go to DNS Configuration and select Manual Configuration.
  5. Connect your Apple TV to a US server by typing in your DNS address and restarting it.
  6. You are all set to download and install the PBS app on your Apple TV.

For Smart TV Users

  1. Get a subscription to a premium VPN. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Connect with the server in the US.
  3. Head to your Wi-Fi router’s admin.
  4. Connect it to your VPN network.
  5. Download the PBS app on your smart TV, and create a free account to start watching.

For PC Users

  1. Download a VPN service on your computer; We suggest ExpressVPN.
  2. Connect it with the server in the US.
  3. Head to the PBS official website, create an account, and log in.
  4. If you are still unable to access PBS, clear your cookies and cache before logging back in.

What to watch on PBS outside USA

There is so much media content available on PBS that you can watch. Here are some amazing recommendations:


Popular TV Shows on PBS

  • Sesame Street
  • Sherlock
  • Antiques Roadshow
  • Arthur
  • Frontline
  • Victoria
  • Ken Burns’s Country Music
  • Rick Steves’ Europe
  • Call the Midwife
  • Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
  • The Great British Baking Show
  • Reading Rainbow
  • The Joy of Painting
  • World on Fire

Popular Movies on PBS

  • Victoria
  • All Creatures Great and Small
  • Poldark
  • Howards End
  • Bleak House
  • Brideshead Revisited
  • Wolf Hall
  • Little Women
  • Downton Abbey
  • Poirot
  • Last Tango in Halifax
  • Call the Midwife
  • Mr. Selfridge
  • Emma
  • Indian Summers
  • Wallander

Unblock PBS outside USA

PBS, or Public broadcasting services, is a streaming channel based in America. However, geo-restriction policies make it exclusively accessible to the US audience.

But you don’t need to be sad because now you can access PBS in almost all countries with the help of a premium VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN.

So, buy a subscription to a VPN and enjoy PBS in UK, PBS in Australia, and anywhere.


FAQs on PBS Outside USA


How can I watch PBS outside USA?

With the help of a premium VPN, we recommend ExpressVPN, which will change your location and IP address for you and make it accessible to everyone outside USA.


Is PBS streaming free?

It is free for US residents; make an account on PBS’s official website and get its streaming free in your region.


Does PBS Require a Subscription?

You need to sign up to get a subscription to PBS; once you have subscribed to it, enjoy the full PBS streaming without restrictions.


How can I watch PBS without a passport?

PBS streaming is available without a PBS passport. Instead, you can watch it by subscribing to a premium VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN, then connect with the US-based server and enjoy watching all your favorite content on PBS.


Where Can I Watch PBS for Free?

You can download the app directly from its official website, which is easily available on almost all devices, and then access all the content without any interruptions.


Can I watch PBS on Netflix?

Yes, so many different PBS original shows are available on Netflix that you can access without any extra payments.


Is PBS free on Firestick?

Yes, it is free on Firestick and other devices; just download its app through the official website, sign up and enjoy streaming.


Is there any region where I can watch PBS outside USA for free?

You can easily access all its content through the member site, where you can watch all your favorite shows, documentaries, and movies for free.


How to watch PBS in Canada and Australia?

With the help of a premium VPN, as we discussed earlier, A VPN will completely change your IP address, whether Australia or Canada, and convert it to a US location, so you can access PBS outside USA or anywhere.


Can I watch PBS in Europe?

Yes, by subscribing to a premium VPN that will give you access to PBS in Europe by spoofing your actual location in the US, you will enjoy PBS streaming in Europe.


Wrapping it up!

We make sure that it will be helpful how to watch PBS outside USA. We have covered almost all the aspects in this article, so you will not face any hurdles to accessing PBS that is only available in America, but by subscribing to a premium VPN that is ExpressVPN, you can watch all your favorite content on PBS outside USA or anywhere around the world.


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