How to Watch Hulu in Germany in 2024
With over 95 live channels, extensive US sports coverage, and award-winning shows like The Handmaid’s Tale or new favorites like The Bear, Hulu is your one-stop shop for great content. Unfortunately, Hulu is not available in Germany due to licensing restrictions. Hulu is exclusive to the US, its territories, and Japan (though the Japanese version has different, limited content).
Even if you already have a Hulu account, if you travel outside the US, you won't be able to access it. If you want to unblock Hulu in Germany, you’ll need to get a US IP with a VPN.
In this article, we'll tell you how to watch Hulu in Germany, why you need a VPN, and recommend some great providers that work on the platform. You’ll also find a handy watch guide of the best movies and shows on Hulu, pricing for Hulu subscriptions, and some alternate ways to pay for it outside the US. In the end, we'll provide answers to FAQs about the service.
How to Watch Hulu in Germany
To watch Hulu in Germany and download the Hulu app, you need to obtain a US IP - which you can do by choosing the right VPN. Here’s how to get started:
- Subscribe to a VPN that unblocks Hulu in Germany (we recommend NordVPN).
- Download and install the VPN on your streaming device.
- Connect to a US server from the VPN provider’s list.
- Access the Hulu website and choose “Sign Up for Hulu Only.”
- Pick a subscription to proceed.
- Enter your information to create your Hulu account.
- Choose how to pay (US credit card or PayPal) and enter your payment details.
- Click “Submit” and start watching Hulu in Germany.
Hulu requires a payment method with a valid US billing address, such as a credit or debit card or PayPal. If you don't have any of those, you can also get Hulu in Germany by paying with a Hulu gift card, a Google Play gift card, or an Apple gift card. Alternatively, you can sign up for a virtual credit card to be able to pay for any US-exclusive service. We’ll go over all these methods later in the article.
Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch Hulu in Germany?
You need a VPN to watch Hulu in Germany as the streaming platform unavailable in the country. Hulu is only available in the United States, US territories (like Puerto Rico), and Japan. That said, the Japanese version has very different content because Hulu's libraries are regionally restricted.
Attempting to watch Hulu outside the US without a VPN (in Deutschland, for example) results in this error: “Hulu isn’t available to watch in your location. It seems that you are located outside of Hulu's geographical service area.”
Fortunately, a VPN lets you change your virtual location by assigning your device a US IP. All you have to do is connect to a US server, and any online service will believe you’re physically located in the United States.
That said, Hulu blocks most VPNs because TV and movie companies lease their content to local services overseas (e.g., Sky in Germany). Licensing issues like this are why people look for the best VPN for Hulu, as only a handful of VPNs can get around Hulu’s filters.
Our top choice is NordVPN because it has thousands of super-fast US servers, along with SmartPlay to disguise your DNS requests and obfuscation. All these features allow it to easily stream Hulu in Germany.
The Best VPNs for Streaming Hulu in Germany
To choose the right VPN for the job, you need to make sure it meets several crucial criteria. First and foremost, it should let you unblock Hulu without any issues. To that end, you need a VPN with plentiful US servers and a widespread global network if you want to access any other streaming services.
Fast speeds and performance are a must for HD and 4K streaming without buffering, while a kill switch and obfuscation will keep you hidden online at any time. Also, the VPN should have a zero-logs policy, advanced encryption (AES-256), and secure protocols (OpenVPN, WireGuard) to maintain your privacy and security online.
It should also allow plenty of simultaneous connections and be supported on any platform out there - Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, etc. Finally, you need a VPN with 24/7 live chat for any issues, as well as affordable pricing and a robust money-back plan if you decide to switch providers.
Based on these criteria, here are the 4 best VPNs for unblocking Hulu in Germany:
- NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch Hulu in Germany
- Surfshark - Fast VPN for Streaming Hulu Outside the US
- ExpressVPN - Get Hulu in Germany on Any Device
- CyberGhost VPN - Unblock Hulu in Germany and 40+ More Services
1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch Hulu in Germany
NordVPN is the best VPN to unblock Hulu in Germany on a wide variety of devices. Its SmartPlay feature makes it easy to bypass geo-restrictions by changing DNS servers on the fly, so it's great for any other streaming services you might want to watch, too. Moreover, the VPN has 6,200+ servers in 111 countries to choose from, including 1,970+ servers in 16 US locations.
It has fast speeds and steady performance on both close-by and remote servers. NordVPN is suited for live streaming sporting events on Hulu, and keeping up with your favorite teams wherever you may be in the world.
Moreover, the VPN features specialty servers, such as double VPN, Onion-over-VPN, P2P, and obfuscated options. The latter allows you to get around VPN blocks on restrictive networks. As always, the VPN includes a useful kill switch, so you can avoid IP leaks.
The VPN’s no-logs policy has been independently audited to ensure your privacy. Better yet, its apps include all the latest protocols to keep you safe from hackers - NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, you name it. They’re equipped with ChaCha20 and AES-256 encryption.
NordVPN works on every major platform nowadays - Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, and others. Connect up to 10 devices simultaneously to stream Hulu, secure your daily browsing habits, and more.
There are a few affordable plan options, but the best value is with the 2-year plan at $3.39 a month. As a subscriber, you benefit from a 30-day money-back guarantee regardless of the subscription. There’s also 24/7 live chat available should you have any concerns.
PROS
- Great streaming performance.
- Extensive US server fleet.
- Unblocks Hulu and more.
- Stealth servers.
- 24/7 live chat.
- 30-day money-back policy.
CONS
- Not fully obfuscated.
2. Surfshark - Fast VPN for Streaming Hulu Outside the US
Surfshark made our list because it effortlessly unblocks Hulu and other streamers. It comes with 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, including 600+ US servers in 25 cities. Best of all, its entire network is obfuscated.
You won't have to worry about any annoying buffering with Surfshark because it delivers blazing-fast speeds with consistent performance on all its servers. You can connect to servers both nearby and on the other side of the world, and you'll get the same amazing results. 4K streaming on Hulu will be seamless.
Surfshark has a reliable kill switch to prevent data leaks during potential disconnections, as well as an audited no-logs policy. You can choose from 3 leading protocols: OpenVPN and IKEv2 with AES-256 encryption or WireGuard with ChaCha20 encryption.
This provider works with all popular streaming devices, including computers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and more. It can also be installed on routers. Overall, it allows unlimited simultaneous connections, so it's great for sharing and protecting all your online activities.
Surfshark's most affordable plan is its 2-year option, which breaks down to $2.29 per month. So if you're on a budget, this is a great choice. Plus, it's backed up by a 30-day refund period, so you can test it and get your money back if it's not a fit. Either way, you'll have customer support available 24/7 in case you need to ask any questions.
PROS
- 600+ US servers.
- Blazing-fast speeds.
- Easily unblocks Hulu in Germany.
- Fully obfuscated server network.
- Unlimited simultaneous connections.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
CONS
- iOS app could be improved.
3. ExpressVPN - Get Hulu in Germany on Any Device
ExpressVPN is another excellent VPN if you want to unblock Hulu in Germany. It has powerful servers in 16 US locations. Plus, all the provider’s 3,000+ servers in 105 countries are fully obfuscated, allowing you to watch Hulu and other services in Germany uninterrupted.
What’s more, you get phenomenal speeds and performance. Whether you’re streaming from Germany or abroad, you’ll have no trouble watching crisp 4K shows, movies, and originals on the platform of your choice.
To prevent online services from discovering your location due to disconnects, ExpressVPN includes a useful kill switch. Alongside that, the provider maintains a strict no-logs policy to ensure your browsing activity is never stored anywhere on their network.
Security-wise, ExpressVPN features industry-standard protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Lightway, with virtually impenetrable encryption (AES-256, WolfSSL). Safe to say that hackers won’t be getting to your data anytime soon.
ExpressVPN works on every device out there, whether you’re running Windows, macOS, Linux, or watching Hulu on Android, iOS, or smart TVs. It also comes with 8 simultaneous connections, which is plenty for streaming enthusiasts.
Your most cost-effective option with ExpressVPN is to get the 1-year plan for $6.67 per month. All plans are backed by a generous 30-day money-back guarantee in case you change your mind. Meanwhile, you can contact 24/7 live chat to resolve any issues you encounter with the service.
PROS
- Servers in 16 US locations.
- Excellent speeds everywhere.
- Built-in obfuscation.
- 8 concurrent connections.
- 30-day money-back policy.
- 24/7 live chat.
CONS
- On the expensive side.
4. CyberGhost VPN - Unblock Hulu in Germany and 40+ More Services
CyberGhost VPN offers dedicated streaming-optimized servers to let you unblock Hulu in Germany, along with 40+ other streaming platforms worldwide. Its network comprises 11,500+ servers in 100 countries, with 2,100+ servers in 11 different US cities.
You’ll get moderate speeds and reliable performance overall. CyberGhost does have some speed dips on more remote servers, but it still should be sufficient for streaming Hulu. The only feature currently lacking is obfuscation, meaning it’s not an ideal option on restrictive networks (e.g., at school, work, etc.)
Otherwise, CyberGhost VPN comes with an always-on kill switch to secure your online identity at all times. Naturally, the provider does not record your activity, and has a no-logs audit to prove their claims.
On the security side of things, CyberGhost VPN features tried-and-tested protocols. You have the lightweight WireGuard (with ChaCha20 encryption), plus the classic OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec options (both with AES-256). WireGuard works best for streaming content in HD and 4K resolution.
The VPN works on any device out there, including PCs, phones, tablets, smart TVs, and more. Better yet, you can use CyberGhost VPN on up to 7 devices simultaneously, regardless of your chosen plan.
Along with their affordable pricing ($2.19 per month for a 2-year plan), the provider has the most generous money-back guarantee in the industry - a whopping 45 days to test out their product. 24/7 live chat is available for troubleshooting, server tips, and so on.
PROS
- Massive server network.
- Affordable plans.
- Accesses 40+ services including Hulu.
- 45-day money-back guarantee.
- 7 simultaneous connections.
CONS
- Lacks obfuscation.
- Distant servers may be slower.
How Much is a Hulu Subscription in Germany?
A Hulu subscription in Germany currently costs $7.99 (€7.30) per month for the ad-supported tier. The more expensive “No Ads” subscription sits at $17.99 (€16.44) monthly, while the all-inclusive Hulu + Live TV tier starts at $76.99 (€70.37) per month. The only plan with a yearly option is the ad-supported base option. Moreover, the 2 base plans come with a 30-day free trial.
Besides those options, you can also choose to bundle up with Disney+. Those plans start at $9.99 (€9.13) monthly for Duo Basic. If you want ESPN+ too, then you're looking at $24.99 (€22.84) a month for Trio Premium.
Here's a breakdown of all the different plans with their features and pricing in US dollars and euros:
How to Subscribe to Hulu in Germany
To subscribe to Hulu in Germany, you’d normally need a US-issued credit or debit card. Thankfully, 5 alternative methods exist, including using a Hulu gift card, a Google Play gift card, an Apple gift card, a virtual credit card, or a US PayPal account (if you know someone you can borrow it from). Here’s a step-by-step guide for each method.
Method 1: Subscribe to Hulu with a Gift Card
You can subscribe to Hulu with one of their own gift cards, so your only other worry is to get a reliable VPN that works for Hulu in Germany. More details below:
- Subscribe to a Hulu VPN (we recommend NordVPN).
- Set up the VPN on your streaming device, then connect to a US server.
- Get a US Hulu gift card (MyGiftCardSupply has them in stock).
- Access the Redeem Your Gift page on Hulu and input your code.
- Sign up for Hulu as usual (see the intro guide if you’re not sure how).
- Choose a show and enjoy watching Hulu in Germany!
Method 2: Subscribe to Hulu with a Virtual Credit Card
Virtual gift cards are a convenient way to access all sorts of US-exclusive streaming sites aside from Hulu. Once registered, all you need is a VPN to change your location, as seen below:
- Subscribe to a Hulu VPN for Germany (we recommend NordVPN).
- Install the VPN on your device and connect to a server in the US.
- Go to USUnlocked and select “Get Started.”
- Register for your virtual credit card.
- Add funds to your new account to get your new card details.
- Visit the Hulu website and sign up using our intro tutorial.
- Add your virtual card info at checkout.
- Click “Submit” and pick something to watch. That's it!
Method 3: Subscribe to Hulu with a US PayPal Account
If you know someone living in the US, you can always ask them to pay for Hulu with their US PayPal account. Afterwards, you can unblock the service with a VPN and start watching:
- Get a VPN for Hulu in Germany (we recommend NordVPN).
- Download the VPN app and connect to a server in the US.
- Go to the Hulu website and select “Sign up for Hulu only.”
- Select a subscription and follow the sign-up process.
- Choose PayPal and click “Continue with PayPal” at checkout.
- Finish paying via PayPal, wait to be redirected, then select a show and start watching.
Method 4: Subscribe to Hulu with a Google Play Gift Card
You can get a Hulu subscription by paying with a US Google Play gift card, but first you have to create a US-based Google account. That's how you get access to the US version of the Play Store to download the Hulu app. And, of course, you need a VPN. Here’s what to do:
- Subscribe to a VPN that unblocks Hulu (we recommend NordVPN).
- Install the VPN on your Android streaming device.
- Connect to any US-based server.
- Purchase a Google Play Gift card from a retailer like MyGiftCardSupply.
- Set up a new Google account with a US address.
- Add your gift card funds to the US Google Play Store.
- Download the Android Hulu app from the US Play Store.
- Open the app, and subscribe to Hulu using your preloaded gift card funds.
- That's it! Now you can pick something to watch and enjoy streaming.
Method 5: Subscribe to Hulu with an Apple Gift Card
Just like the Google method, you have to create a US Apple ID first, plus load up a US Apple gift card. Then use a VPN to connect to a US server and get Hulu. Follow these steps to make it easy:
- Sign up for a VPN that works with Hulu and iOS (we recommend NordVPN).
- Download the VPN on your iOS streaming device.
- Connect to any US server from your provider's list.
- Buy an Apple gift card from MyGiftCardSupply or any other online store.
- Make a new Apple ID with a US-based address, then log in to your device with it.
- Add your gift card funds to the US App Store.
- Install the iOS Hulu app from the App Store.
- Launch the app and pay for Hulu with your gift card funds.
- That’s it! Now you can start streaming Hulu in Germany.
Best Movies and Shows to Watch on Hulu in Germany
It’s hard to beat Hulu when it comes to its shows, movies, and originals. Kick back on movie night with new releases like Poor Things or All of Us Strangers, keep up with The Kardashians in their self-produced show, or see what’s cooking on The Bear.
If you’d rather see what’s airing on TV, the Hulu + Live TV subscription lets you browse 95+ live channels from the US like Comedy Central, SYFY, and ESPN. It’s a great choice for sports fans, as you can enjoy extensive coverage of NFL, MLB, NHL, NBA, NCAA, UFC, WWE, and more.
Here are some more must-see picks to watch on Hulu in Germany:
Can You Stream Hulu in Germany with a Free VPN?
Yes, you can stream Hulu in Germany with a free VPN, but we advise against it. Free VPN services come with a number of notable drawbacks, foremost being the fact that they usually can't unblock streaming services. They're also often unsafe because they collect and sell user data to make some kind of profit.
Then you have the issue of streaming support. Free VPNs have limited server availability, overcrowding issues, slow speeds, restricted bandwidth, and data caps. All of those factors make them unsuitable for streaming. That's why we suggest getting a VPN free trial from a premium service.
The NordVPN free trial is your best bet. It's offered on Android for 7 days, and there is a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it on other devices. You'll get access to all its servers and top-notch speeds. When your trial is over, if you decide to keep using a VPN, you can choose from the best VPN services on the market. We've tested and ranked them all, so you don't have to.
Final Thoughts
Hulu has a wealth of quality shows and movies in its library, but it's unfortunately only available in the US. If you want to access it from home in Deutschland, you're out of luck. If you're a US citizen and you travel outside the country, you can't use your Hulu account either. Luckily, you can change your virtual location with a VPN to unblock Hulu.
We recommend NordVPN as the best VPN to stream Hulu in Germany. Enjoy 1,970+ high-speed servers in 16 US locations, many of which are equipped with obfuscation to mask your presence on Hulu. Plus, with its SmartPlay feature hiding your DNS queries, you'll be able to access myriad other platforms from around the world.
That’s all there is to know about how to watch Hulu in Germany. Feel free to drop a comment below if you’re having trouble - and thank you for reading!