5 Best VPNs for Iran in 2025

Iran ranks among the most heavily censored countries online, with thousands of websites and platforms like Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, and YouTube blocked. Internet users risk surveillance, data tracking, and even arrest for expressing dissent.

Under such circumstances, using a reliable VPN in Iran lets you bypass censorship, protect your privacy, and access restricted content safely. In this guide, we’ll share the 5 best VPNs for Iran, explain how to use them, and cover everything you need to know, including legality, buying tips, and key features to look for.

Key Notes - Best VPNs for Iran (2025)

1. Iran's Censorship: Iran is one of the most heavily censored countries, blocking major platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, and YouTube.
2. VPN Usage Surge: In 2025, VPN usage has risen by 700% as people seek to bypass censorship, protect privacy, and access blocked content.
3. Top VPNs for Iran:
   • NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, PIA are the best options for bypassing Iran's strict censorship.
   • CyberGhost offers 25+ servers in Tehran, while others provide nearby servers in countries like Israel, Turkey, and UAE.
   • Key Features: Obfuscation, strong encryption (AES-256), kill switch, and a no-logs policy are crucial for maintaining privacy and avoiding detection.
4. Legal Risks: VPNs are illegal in Iran unless government-approved. Using unauthorized VPNs can lead to penalties, including fines or imprisonment.
5. Safety Tips: Use obfuscated servers, avoid free VPNs, and ensure you download VPNs before traveling to Iran for extra safety.

Why VPN Usage in Iran Is Skyrocketing in 2025

Iran’s government uses SmartFilter and other deep packet inspection tools to block access to millions of websites. From global news outlets to essential communication platforms, censorship is vast. In fact, Iran is considered the third most censored country in the world after China, scoring 12/100 from Freedom House. The table below outlines major categories of banned websites:

Social Media	Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, Reddit, Threads, Instagram
Messaging Apps	Telegram, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Signal, Discord
Video Hosting	YouTube, Twitch, Dailymotion, Vimeo, Nico Video, Newgrounds
Image Sharing	Flickr, Pinterest, DeviantArt, Shutterstock, Dreamstime, 9gag
News Media	BBC, Deutsche Welle, CNN, NDTV
App Stores	Google Play Store, Apple App Store (blocked during protests)
Music & Entertainment	YouTube Music, Netflix, Zhanqi
File Sharing / Software	ApkPure, Uptodown, The Pirate Bay
Adult Content	All pornography websites (blocked by SmartFilter by default)

Due to these censorships in 2025, Iranians are increasingly turning to VPNs. Official figures show over Iran witnessed a 700% rise in VPN usage lately. Following recent Israeli bombings, Iran imposed a near-total internet blackout, cutting connectivity by up to 97%, and censored apps like WhatsApp and Google Play. These dramatic restrictions have driven demand for secure, reliable VPNs, making them essential for freedom of expression and daily communication.

The Most Reliable VPNs for Iran in 2025

Accessing the open internet in Iran can be challenging as the government there has imposed heavy censorship and surveillance. However, using a reliable VPN, you can evade them to access Internet securely. After testing more 60 VPNs, here are our recommendations for the best VPNs for Iran in 2025:

	NordVPN	Surfshark	ExpressVPN	CyberGhost	PIA
Iran Servers	❌	❌	❌	✅	❌
Nearby Servers	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Obfuscation	✅	✅	✅	❌	✅
Bypasses Censorship	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Data Leak Protection (IP/DNS/WebRTC)	✅ No leaks detected	✅ No leaks detected	✅ No leaks detected	✅ No leaks detected	✅ No leaks detected
Router Support (overall protection)	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Strong Encytpion and Protocols	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Audited No-Logs policy	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Kill Switch	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Simultaneous Connections	10 simultaneous connections	unlimited simultaneous connections	8 simultaneous connections	7 simultaneous connections	unlimited simultaneous connections
Device Compatibility	✅All Major Devices	✅All Major Devices	✅All Major Devices	✅All Major Devices	✅All Major Devices
Money-Back Guarantee	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Price	$3.39 per month (for a 24 months plan)	$2.19 per month (for a 24 months plan)	$4.99 per month (for a 24 months plan)	$2.19 per month (for a 24 months plan)	$2.19 per month (for a 24 months plan)

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is not only the best VPn for Iran, but rather, it is the top VPN for the entire Asia if you prioritize privacy and security. It has 7,400+ servers in 118 countries, which allows you to bypass all censorship restrictions. Although NordVPN lacks Iranian servers, it provides servers in Israel and Türkiye that enable access to global platforms and their local content. It's also among the fastest VPNs available right now.

One of NordVPN's main perks is that its plans include incredible security features. This provider has obfuscated servers across most of its network, a kill switch that cuts your connection if the VPN fails, AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 encryption, an audited no-logs policy, and strong VPN protocols like NordLynx, NordWhisper, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN. 

NordVPN supports 10 simultaneous connections, and it offers highly polished applications that work on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS/iPadOS, and more. You can also set it up on a router, which allows you to protect your entire household at once.

You can sign up for only $2.19 per month if you opt for NordVPN's 24 months. Your purchase will be backed by a generous 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you more than plenty of time to test-drive the VPN. You will also benefit from its 24/7 customer support that can solve any issue that may arise. 

2. Surfshark

Surfshark is a capable Iran VPN that seems suitable even for complete beginners. It has 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, including servers in Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, but it doesn’t offer Iranian servers. However, it effectively unblocks global services and local content in the Middle East. 

It offers lightning-fast speeds and consistent VPN connections. But that’s not all. Surfshark is also incredibly secure because of its obfuscation, kill switch, AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 encryption, audited no-logs policy, and robust VPN protocols, such as WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN. 

It even offers unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing you to use the VPN on tons of different devices at the same time. In addition, Surfshark works with numerous devices like PCs, mobile devices, tablets, smart TVs, routers, and gaming consoles.

This VPN comes priced at $2.19 per month (24 months plan), and there's also a 30-day money-back guarantee you can use if you’re not satisfied with the VPN. Last but not least, Surfshark offers 24/7-available customer support that guarantees an effective issue-solving process.

3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is the best VPN to use in Iran if you need obfuscation, which allows you to hide your VPN data. It has an extensive network of an undisclosed number of servers in 105 countries. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have servers in Iran. Still, you can connect to servers in countries like Israel or Egypt if you wish to unblock local Middle Eastern content and global websites. 

ExpressVPN has blazing-fast speeds and impressive overall performance. Furthermore, it provides excellent security features. You will benefit from automatic obfuscation on all its servers, an audited no-logs policy, a kill switch, AES-256 and ChaCha20/Poly1305 encryption, and robust VPN protocols like Lightway (its proprietary option), OpenVPN, Lightway, and IKEv2. 

Additionally, the VPN allows you to establish 8 simultaneous connections, and it’s compatible with various devices, such as phones, computers, tablets, smart TVs, routers, and consoles. ExpressVPN's apps come with a mobile-like UI, so they're suitable even for first-time VPN users.

To get started, you'll need to pay $4.99 per month for ExpressVPN's 24 months plan. You will get a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows you to request a full refund if you’re not satisfied with the VPN’s services. For an even better experience, ExpressVPN comes with knowledgeable customer support that you can contact 24/7 to overcome any issues.

4. CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost VPN is the best VPN with an Iranian IP address, offering an undisclosed number of servers in 100 countries. It has 25+ Iran VPN servers so that you can unblock popular worldwide and local content like PressTV and Al-Kawthar TV. That said, this Iran IP VPN is a medium-fast provider, so having a relatively fast baseline connection wouldn't hurt.

While CyberGhost lacks obfuscated servers, it does have NoSpy servers, which are entirely owned and operated in-house. They mask your IP address and encrypt your traffic, just not the VPN usage itself. Besides this, you get a kill switch that works in the background, AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 encryption, a few VPN protocols (OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard), and an audited no-logs policy.

What’s more, CyberGhost allows up to 7 simultaneous connections. Also, it's compatible with a wide range of devices and platforms. You can utilize its easy-to-use VPN apps on your phone, computer, tablet, smart TV, router, or gaming console. 

This VPN's 24 months plan is priced at $2.19 per month and comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee. So, you get plenty of time to evaluate the service. Lastly, expect 24/7 live chat support, in addition to email support, support tickets, installation guides, and more.

5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access VPN (PIA) is a highly advanced VPN with thousands of servers across an undisclosed number of servers in 91 countries. This VPN for Iran doesn’t have servers in Iran, but it has servers in nearby countries, such as Israel, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. As a result, you’ll bypass online censorship and have access to foreign websites and local Middle Eastern content. 

If speed is what you’re looking for, you may be a bit disappointed, as PIA is slower than its competitors, but that doesn’t mean that it lacks decent overall performance. You will also enjoy AES-128-GCM, AES-256-GCM, AES-128-CBC, AES-256-CBC, and ChaCha20 encryption, obfuscation, a court-proven no-log policy, a kill switch, and robust protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IPsec (IKEv2)).

Moving on, PIA offers unlimited simultaneous connections and works with many devices, such as mobile devices, computers, routers, smart TVs, or gaming devices. Its interface is simple but comes with an unparalleled level of fine-tuning, making PIA suitable for advanced users.

This VPN's 24 months subscription is priced at only $2.19 per month and comes backed by a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. As a result, you can try out the VPN and cancel your plan if you’re unsatisfied with what it offers. You’ll also have access to 24/7 customer support and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

How Iranians Can Download a VPN (Inside or Outside the Country)

Using VPNs in Iran is tricky. While technically legal with government approval, many popular VPN apps are blocked in the country, making it difficult for people living in Iran to download or update VPN apps directly from the usual app stores. Let's have a look at how you can download and set up a VPN successfully, both from inside and outside of Iran.

1. Guide to Using a VPN if You Are Outside Iran

1. Subscribe to a VPN with Iranian servers (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN app on your device(s).
3. Launch the VPN app and enter your credentials to activate your account.
4. Connect to a VPN server in Iran or where your desired content is available.
5. You can now enjoy unrestricted Internet access in Iran!

2. Guide to Using a VPN if You Are Inside Iran

Method	Process	Additional Safety Tips
Third-Party APK Sites	Access trusted APK sites like APKMirror, APKPure, or F-Droid using Tor browser or an already-functioning proxy. Download VPN APK manually.	✅ Use antivirus to scan APKs. ✅ Only download from verified publishers. ❌ Avoid shady sites to prevent spyware or fake VPN apps.
Mirrored VPN URLs	Some VPN providers offer mirror URLs or backup links. These are alternate domains created to bypass censorship. Check official forums or Twitter or directly contact their customer support.	✅ Always verify mirror links through VPN’s official social media or support channels. ❌ Avoid mirror links shared on Telegram groups without verification.
Install via External Devices	Ask friends or relatives abroad to download the installer on a USB drive or SD card and physically share it.	✅ Transfer via encrypted drives if possible. ✅ Prefer open-source VPN protocols such as OpenVPN or WireGuard for added transparency.
Email-Based Access	Contact VPN providers' support and request the APK or installation file via email (some support teams help users in censored countries).	✅ Use secure email providers like ProtonMail. ❌ Avoid using government-registered emails or phone numbers during communication.
Use Obfuscated VPN Protocols	Choose VPNs that offer obfuscated servers (like OpenVPN with XOR, Shadowsocks, or Stealth VPN) to hide VPN traffic from DPI (deep packet inspection).	✅ Use providers like NordVPN, Surfshark, or ExpressVPN which include built-in obfuscation. ❌ Avoid using PPTP/L2TP as they are easily detectable and outdated.
Tor Network	Use Tor Browser to visit VPN websites or download installation files anonymously.	✅ Only download over HTTPS. ❌ Don't log into personal accounts while using Tor unless absolutely necessary.
Pre-Installation Before Travel	If you’re visiting Iran soon, install and test the VPN on all your devices before arrival.	✅ Keep the installer backed up on a hidden USB. ✅ Pre-load settings and test auto-connect on startup to minimize exposure.

Why VPN Usage Is Essential in Iran Right Now

Using a VPN in Iran isn’t just about accessing global content. In fact, it’s a critical tool for bypassing deep censorship (as discussed above), avoiding surveillance, and accessing essential services during widespread digital crackdowns. Here’s why more Iranians are turning to VPNs in 2025:

• Bypass deep packet inspection (DPI) and evade SmartFilter content blocks.
• Unblock global platforms like Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, Twitter, BBC, CNN, and Netflix, many of which remain fully inaccessible without a VPN.
• Protect yourself from surveillance and legal consequences for expressing dissenting opinions online.
• Access independent news sources, which are often blacklisted or throttled inside Iran.
• Download essential apps (e.g., Google Play Store, Apple App Store) that are blocked or restricted during protests or political events.
• Avoid full or partial internet shutdowns by tunneling traffic through VPNs that use obfuscation or stealth protocols.
• Secure communications on platforms like Signal, Telegram, or Discord, which are widely blocked without circumvention tools.
• Access Iranian content from abroad (by connecting to Iran-based servers, like those offered by CyberGhost).

What to Look for in the Best VPN for Iran

It's crucial to establish strict requirements that will help you pinpoint the best Iran VPNs. That said, prioritize privacy and security features and obfuscation, as the Web is quite restricted in the country. Here's everything you need to keep in mind:

✔ Servers in Iran, Neighboring Countries, and Worldwide: Servers in the country will help you obtain an Iran IP address, while servers elsewhere will help you unblock the Web.

✔ Unlimited Access to Geo-Blocked Services: Your VPN should offer strong content-unblocking tools that will allow you to access Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and other blocked Web services.

✔ Reliable Performance and Stable Speed: Every VPN performs differently. So, try to find one that's known for its performance and that can deliver stable and fast speeds.

✔ Obfuscation Technologies: Obfuscation will hide the fact that you use a VPN, which is imperative in countries with a high level of censorship, such as Iran.

✔ Functional Kill Switch: This feature will help you prevent data leaks. A kill switch shuts down your Web connection if your VPN session becomes unstable.

✔ Security and Privacy Measures: Don't use anything less than OpenVPN and WireGuard, which should be paired with encryption ciphers like AES-256 and ChaCha20.

✔ Simultaneous Connections: Be aware of how many devices you want to protect, and then find a VPN that offers a sufficient number of simultaneous connections.

✔ Supported Devices / Native Apps: You'll also want native apps across the board for any device you might use at home - be it a computer, phone, tablet, or even a router.

✔ Competitive Price: The ideal VPN doesn't have to cost much. If you can, invest in a long-term subscription, as those most often come with steep discounts.

✔ Solid Money-Back Policy: You'll want a VPN that has nothing to hide. So, money-back guarantees are important, as they allow you to test-drive everything before committing.

✔ Always-There Customer Support: You'll appreciate having 24/7 live chat support, which is always the most efficient way to troubleshoot technical problems.

Are VPNs Legal in Iran? 

No, VPNs are not legal in Iran. In early 2024, it announced that using VPNs without official approval would be banned. This means that people in Iran who want to access the global internet using a VPN must apply for a government-approved VPN and get permission to use it. Additionally, we would like to add that if you use the government-approved services like Shatel, then there is a high possibility that your data is being monitored.

Hence, the Iranian government has taken steps to control and limit the use of VPNs. However, it's still unclear how much these licensed VPNs will cost or who will actually be allowed to get them. For now, using most VPNs in Iran is considered illegal unless they are specifically approved by the government

That’s why, if you choose to use a VPN in Iran, it’s crucial to pick a reputable provider with strong obfuscation and encryption features to hide your usage and reduce legal exposure.

Is It Safe to Use a VPN in Iran?

Now let's tackle the most important question- Is it safe to use a VPN in Iran? Well, using a VPN in Iran is not entirely safe, but millions of Iranians still do it every day to bypass heavy internet censorship and surveillance. The government tightly controls internet access and has officially banned unauthorized VPNs. In fact, in early 2024, Iran announced that people would need to apply for government-approved VPNs to legally access the global internet. However, these government-approved VPNs (if available at all) are unlikely to protect your privacy.

Despite the risks, many people use reliable, premium VPNs to access blocked apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram, and news sites. Still, you must take precautions, because if you're caught using an unapproved VPN, you could face fines, interrogation, or other penalties.

Safety Tips for Using a VPN in Iran:

• Use Obfuscated Servers: These hide VPN traffic and make it harder for the government to detect that you're using a VPN. All our recommended VPNs offer obfuscated servers except for CyberGhost VPN.
• Avoid Free VPNs: They often lack encryption, may log your data, and are more easily blocked or traced by authorities.
• Download VPN Before Traveling to Iran: If you're visiting Iran, install and test the VPN on all devices before entering the country.
• Use Trusted VPN Providers: Go for top-tier VPNs that have a no-logs policy, strong encryption (like AES-256), and proven security audits.
• Turn On the Kill Switch: This feature instantly cuts off internet access if the VPN connection drops, preventing accidental data leaks.
• Don’t Share VPN Usage Online: Avoid posting or talking about your VPN use on public platforms or social media.

Can You Really Use a Free VPN in Iran? (Risks + Safe Alternatives)

As per our research, many people in Iran are turning to free VPNs to bypass heavy internet censorship. But before you do the same, it’s important to understand the real risks and limitations involved.

Free VPNs might sound appealing, but most are dangerous, unreliable, or simply don’t work in Iran. In fact, many free VPN apps are blocked entirely or fail to bypass DPI (Deep Packet Inspection), which the Iranian government uses to detect and throttle VPN traffic. As a result, they have been caught and given punishments for violating the regulations.

Here’s a breakdown regarding why you must no choose free VPNs:

Feature	Free VPNs
Unblocks All Content	❌ Limited or inconsistent access
Protects Your Identity & Location	❌ Weak or no encryption; prone to leaks
Safe from Legal Risk	❌ Increases exposure due to lack of obfuscation
No Data Logging/Selling	❌ Often logs and sells user data
Fast & Reliable Speeds	❌ Slower speeds and limited bandwidth
Secure for Long-Term Use	❌ Not recommended for sustained privacy or access

Therefore, instead of wasting your time on a free VPN, it's a much better idea to try a premium VPN for free.

Better Solution: Use a Premium VPN for Free (Risk-Free Trials)

Use a 30-day money-back VPN	Sign up, use the service, and request a refund within 30 days	Works with all our recommended VPNs, but we recommend NordVPN free trial.
Use free 7-day mobile trials	Android users can activate a 7-day trial (e.g., NordVPN, Surfshark)	Download APKs from trusted mirrors like APKMirror or Uptodown

All in all, free VPNs seem to be tempting enough, but nothing can replace a premium VPN. So, if you'd like to check more trials, or perhaps you wish to expand your options, head to our guide on the best VPN providers.

Final Thoughts

Iran imposes rigorous censorship, blocking popular streaming, social media, and messaging platforms like Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, and Netflix. It also restricts content that it believes violates the law, such as news, health, and science sites. To unblock the Web in Iran, access Iranian sites from outside the country, and protect yourself from surveillance, you need a trustworthy and capable Iran VPN.

We recommend NordVPN as it's a hugely capable VPN, giving you access to global content. It also keeps your privacy protected, as it leaves no stone unturned in terms of its protocols, policies, and encryption.

If you prefer a simple yet powerful experience, Surfshark and ExpressVPN are both excellent choices, offering automatic obfuscation, lightning-fast speeds, and intuitive apps ideal for beginners and frequent travelers alike. CyberGhost is another top pick if you want to use a VPN that offers you security along with an Iranian IP address. Private Internet Access (PIA) is ideal for advanced users who want fine-tuned control, unlimited device connections, and strong privacy features.

That’s all for our guide on the best VPN for Iran. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comment section below. Thank you for reading!