Do you want to access your usual online poker sites when outside of your home country? Most online casinos geographically restrict their services to prevent users from specific countries from playing. However, you can keep your activities private and prevent region-based blocking by connecting to a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
A VPN works by encrypting your network traffic, making it unreadable to your ISP, hackers, and anyone without the decryption key. This not only allows you to connect to geo-restricted sites, but it also means that nobody can prove you visited these sites at all.
If you’re short on time and want to find out which VPNs are best for online poker, check out our summarized list below:
- NordVPN: Our top choice VPN for online poker! This VPN powerhouse lets you access online poker sites from anywhere, with lightning-fast speeds and reliable connectivity regardless of your physical location. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: The best budget option. A reliable choice for enjoying uninterrupted online poker sessions. Unblocking is effortless using NoBorders Mode.
- ExpressVPN: An advanced VPN with several added security options to enhance your online privacy. Great speeds for long poker sessions.
- CyberGhost: Works well with online poker sites. provides servers optimized for specific activities like streaming or torrenting.
- IPVanish: 1,900+ servers in over 75 locations worldwide. Capable of evading online poker geo-restrictions.
- PrivateVPN: Apps for all major platforms with a 10 simultaneous device limit.
How to play Poker online from anywhere
Short of time and want to play poker online as quickly as possible? Then check out our quick guide below or continue reading for more information on each of our recommended VPNs.
Here’s how to play poker online with a VPN:
- Sign up with a VPN provider. We recommend NordVPN.
- Download and install the VPN app or browser extension for your device.
- Check it’s legal to play poker online in the country you are traveling in before trying to access gambling sites abroad.
- Open the VPN app or browser extension and connect to a server in a country where your usual online poker website is unblocked.
- Log in to your favorite online casino.
- You should now be able to place bets and play games as usual! If you’re still encountering restrictions, try clearing your browser’s cookies.
The best VPNs for Online Poker – At a glance
We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for online poker.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn’t right for you and you’ll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
The Best VPNs for Online Poker
While there are hundreds of VPN services to choose from, it’s important you find one that’s suitable for the task at hand. To find the best VPNs for online poker, we looked for services with the following characteristics:
- Extensive server networks with a particular focus on the US and UK.
- Not blocked by some of the most popular poker sites (PokerStars, 888Poker, PartyPoker)
- Strong encryption
- Minimal logging or better still, no logging at all
Disclaimer: The laws on online gambling websites are extremely complex and differ from one location to another. We do not encourage or condone illegal online gambling, or the use of a VPN to spoof geographic locations for the purpose of breaking local laws. It’s important to thoroughly research your country/state’s laws before using a VPN to access online poker websites.
1. NordVPN
Jan 2023
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- Background
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN allows six simultaneous VPN connections, giving you the option to access poker sites from any of your devices. This provider has server locations in 60 countries, so there are very few poker sites that you won’t be able to use.
NordVPN provides several ways for its users to remain completely protected online. It can be paid for in bitcoin, doesn’t keep any logs, and includes an application-specific kill switch. All data is protected with 256-bit AES encryption.
Apps are available for Linux, Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android. NordVPN can be manually installed selected routers.
Best VPN FOR ONLINE POKER:NordVPN is our top choice. Works reliably with online poker sites. Great privacy and security credentials. 30-day money back guarantee.
Pros:
- Unblocks most popular streaming sites
- Over 2,000 servers throughout the US and the UK that can unblock pretty much anything
- Round-the-clock chat support
- Offers secure, encrypted connections at all times
- Strict no-logs policy ideal for privacy-conscious users
Cons:
- Can select city location of servers, but not specific servers
Our score:
Read our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Surfshark has around 3,200+ servers in 100 countries worldwide, and this includes over a dozen different US cities. Connection speeds are generally very fast, but there are the occasional slow servers, so you might want to test it out for a few minutes before starting a game.
This VPN keeps you safe with a combination of 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection. Further, it offers a NoBorders mode capable of bypassing even the most stringent online censorship. Surfshark follows a strict no-logs policy for extra peace of mind. 24/7 support is available via live chat.
This service offers Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, and iOS apps. Manual configuration is required for supported routers.
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark provides solid security, impressive speeds, and the ability to play poker anywhere at a price that won’t break the bank. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Unblocks poker and streaming sites with ease
Solid speeds
Allows unlimited connections
Very strong on security
No-logs policy
Some features require Surfshark One, which costs extra
Why not take a look at our full Surfshark review?
3. ExpressVPN
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
ExpressVPN has servers in more than 90 countries and several different US states. This makes it an excellent choice for American users looking to bypass regional poker restrictions, for example, if you’re traveling outside of your home state.
ExpressVPN uses 256-bit AES encryption to keep your network traffic private. Users can also take advantage of its DNS leak protection, perfect forward secrecy, and kill switch. Because ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, it isn’t required to log any of its users’ data, and accordingly, is completely log-free.
Apps are available for Linux, Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. Manual installation is possible on specific wireless routers.
GOOD SPEEDS:ExpressVPN is fast and reliable. Unblocks most major geo-restricted services. Best-in-class security and online privacy with 256-bit AES encryption, keeps no browser logs, has kill switch and leak protection. Try it risk-free with the 30-day money back guarantee.
Extensive range of servers to choose from in various US states, the UK and elsewhere
Based in the BVI and isn’t required to log any user data
Top-notch encryption standards
Superfast servers are great for unblocking streaming sites in HD
Only allows 5 connections at one time
Higher monthly price than its rivals
Read our full review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost has servers in more than 90 countries, including some that are specifically optimized for gaming. This means you’ll be able to find a high-speed server that works with the most popular poker sites, regardless of your actual location.
This service makes online security simple. It includes anti-malware and ad-blocking functionalities, and users can select a server optimized to fit their needs. With 256-bit encryption, no logs, and automatic HTTPS redirection, you can count on your traffic and information being kept private at all times. CyberGhost allows up to seven connections at once, so you can remain protected no matter which device you’re using.
CyberGhost has apps for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android. Manual configuration is possible for some routers.
BEGINNERS’ CHOICE:CyberGhost is easy to use. Fast and reliable VPN connections with a good range of servers. Great privacy with zero logs and DNS leak protection. Good for online poker but can’t match rivals with some popular streaming platforms. 45-day money-back guarantee.
Thousand of servers to choose from
Some of the fastest gaming servers we’ve come across
Very good and unblocking geo-restricted sites and content
Apps are easy to install and use – a good option for beginners
Lack of configuration options will frustrate power users
Doesn’t work in China
Read our full CyberGhost review.
5. IPVanish
Website: www.IPVanish.com
IPVanish owns its servers, enabling it to provide above-average speeds and resolve problems more quickly than some of its rivals. These factors make it a strong choice for online poker.
IPVanish uses 256-bit AES encryption and comes with several optional online security features including LAN traffic blocking, WireGuard support, and OpenVPN obfuscation. There’s also DNS leak protection and a kill switch to keep you as anonymous as possible.
CONNECT ALL YOUR DEVICES:IPVanish has a large network of servers. Generally solid for online poker apps and users who need the highest standard of privacy. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Owns and operates all the servers on their network, providing good speeds
Strong encryption and privacy protections
Keeps no logs whatsoever
Large choice of servers from the EU and North America
Doesn’t accept cryptocurrencies
Apps don’t work in China
Read our full IPVanish review.
6. PrivateVPN
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
PrivateVPN has fewer servers than some of its rivals but is a solid choice for poker players. It boasts high speeds and offers servers in Nevada and New Jersey, two states that have regulated online poker and online gambling.
PrivateVPN uses 256-bit AES encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch. It logs no personally identifiable information, you can rest assured that your activities will be kept private. With up to 10 simultaneous connections permitted, this service is ideal for those who like to play poker on-the-go.
PrivateVPN has apps for Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS. It can be manually configured for Linux and specific routers.
GREAT SPEEDS:PrivateVPN is easy to use. Works well with online poker sites. Fast internet connections but could do with having more servers to chose from. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Operates servers in US states where online poker is regulated
New and growing network with fast servers
They log no personally identifiable information on their users
Fewer servers to choose from than other providers higher on this list
Support staff are helpful, but only operate during Swedish business hours
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
Can I use a free VPN to play online poker?
We strongly advise against using a free VPN to play online poker. Most online poker sites have taken steps to prevent VPN users from playing, so there’s a good chance free VPNs just won’t work. Further, these services usually have fewer servers and more users. This can lead to network slowdowns and unexpected disconnections; two things that can cost you real money if they occur mid-game.
Because free VPNs can’t profit directly from their users, they’ve been known to use shady methods to create income. Free VPNs are capable of injecting unskippable video ads into each page you visit, tracking your activities using cookies, and selling your browsing habits to unknown third parties without your knowledge.
Sadly, this is just the tip of the iceberg. There have been high-profile cases in recent years involving free VPNs that sold their user’s bandwidth, came packaged with malware, and misled users about the kind of logs they keep. To stay safe, we highly recommend choosing a trusted VPN service with clear policies.
Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for playing poker
At first glance, it might not seem like there’s much need for a VPN at the poker table. In reality, though, you can never be too careful where privacy (or money) is involved. To identify the best VPNs for poker, we created a set of strict requirements and dismissed any candidates that failed to meet them all. You’ll find these (and a quick explanation of why they’re important) below:
- Network scale: There are several reasons why this matters. First, larger networks make it easier to find a server with low load, which ensures a speedy connection. Further, they’re more resistant to DDoS attacks, which are semi-regularly used to target individuals during poker tournaments.
- Performance: Slow speeds lead to connectivity issues, which could hypothetically see you drop out of matches partway through. With this in mind, we decided to only recommend VPNs that deliver impressive results in our latest VPN speed testing.
- Security and privacy: To prevent your true location from being revealed, we require all of our top VPNs to follow a no-logs policy. What’s more, we looked for providers offering 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection, though more security tools are always welcome.
- Stealth capabilities: Some poker sites won’t let you play if they realize you’re using a VPN. Likewise, you’ll often find gambling sites blocked by default on public wi-fi. To get around both of these issues, we prioritized VPNs that include strong unblocking ability and ideally, a toggleable stealth mode.
We thoroughly test VPNs before recommending them. Find out more about this process in our full VPN testing post.
Online poker and the law
Each country has different laws regarding the legality of online poker. The legislation is particularly complex in the US, thanks to the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006. Certain US states have passed laws regulating online poker, which makes things even more confusing.
The following is a very simplistic interpretation of online poker legislation. We are not legal professionals. We encourage our readers to further research the laws in their country before attempting to play poker online.
Online poker in the US
Currently, US citizens can legally play poker through any offshore site that accepts American players. Residents of Nevada, Delaware, and New Jersey can play on any site based entirely in their state.
Online poker in the UK and Europe
Online poker is completely legal in the following countries:
- Albania
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Bulgaria
- Channel Islands
- Croatia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- Georgia
- Germany
- Gibraltar
- Greece
- Hungary
- Ireland
- Isle of Man
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Macedonia
- Malta
- Montenegro
- The Netherlands
- Norway
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Serbia
- Slovakia
- Spain
- Sweden
- United Kingdom
Each European country not on this list has differing punishments for those caught playing online poker. We do not condone or encourage using VPNs for illegal activities.
Other considerations
If a gambling site permits users from a country that it’s not licensed for, it opens itself up to fines and possibly even legal action. As such, these companies have invested a lot of time and money into detecting VPN usage.
If an online casino realizes you’re using a VPN, you might find that you aren’t allowed to gamble with real money. In the worst cases, you’ll be stopped from playing at all, or find yourself unable to withdraw any of your deposits or winnings.
It’s definitely worth reading the site’s terms and conditions or contacting customer support before attempting to play online poker with a VPN. Depending on where you’re located, a VPN may not even be necessary and has the potential to complicate things instead of helping. However, if you choose to play without a VPN, your data will not be encrypted and your real IP address will be shown to the casino’s server.
VPN usage and funds
While most online casinos allow the use of services like PayPal, some require transfers to be made using a bank account registered in a specific country. This effectively blocks overseas users from playing even if they manage to access the site with a VPN.
There really isn’t much that can be done to bypass this restriction. Instead, it might be worth looking for reputable online poker sites that accept alternative means of payment, such as bitcoin.
DDoS attacks
Unfortunately, winning at online poker isn’t entirely down to chance or skill. Because the majority of these games take place in real time, even a small time lag can be the difference between a win and a loss. With this in mind, malicious third parties have begun targeting online casinos using Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks.
These attacks flood the casino’s servers with requests, slowing the site down or taking it offline entirely. This could lead to players losing money or being unable to collect any winnings they might have accumulated. It’s highly unlikely, but depending on how the server handles connections during live games, an attacker could even find your IP address and attack you specifically.
So how can you protect yourself when playing poker online? The best bet is to use a well-established gambling site that doesn’t have a history of paying DDoS ransoms. After all, if an attacker knows they’ll be paid for their efforts, they’re more likely to hit the same target again.
Before you do, though, we recommend educating yourself on the risks involved. For instance, if your chosen casino realizes that you’re not actually based in its country, it may prevent you from withdrawing any winnings. Depending on its registration requirements, you may not even be able to sign up.
Now, it’s important to note that using VPNs, proxies, or similarly technology to bypass regional restrictions almost certainly goes against the casino’s terms of service. If the casino realizes you’ve done so, it could refuse to pay out anything you win, and you may even receive a ban. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to weigh up the risks and rewards before trying to gamble whilst connected to a VPN.
