How to change country in google play store using vpn

Google Play Store harbors many useful applications that make your smartphone a solution to every problem. You can find an app for almost everything on the Android Play Store, from shopping to travel and financial transactions.

However, this fantastic app marketplace has certain limitations. Many times, you cannot use it the way you want because of geographical restrictions. That’s where you need to change Google Play country.

But that will make me travel abroad, won’t it? We hear you ask.

Don’t worry. Through this guide, you will learn how to change your Google Play Country without going anywhere.

How to change Google Play country – Quick guide

Excited much to access Google Play apps from another region? Here is a quick step-by-step guide to changing your Google Play device location.

  • Subscribe to a robust VPN service. NordVPN can be a quick recommendation here due to its top-notch security features.
  • Set up the VPN on your device. It’ll only take a few minutes.
  • Clear your Google Play Store data.
  • Connect to the VPN server from your preferred location.
  • Change Google Play country via Settings > General > Account and device preferences > Country and profiles. Tap on the ‘Switch’ option to change the location.
  • Download the apps from the new location.

It’s that simple! Yet, if you want to learn more about how this all works, read along.

How does Google Play Store know my country?

How to change country in google play store using vpn
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Google Play Store has geo-based restrictions on its apps, making them available in certain countries and markets only. This means you can access apps available specifically for your IP address (as your IP address reveals your location/country). For accessing other countries’ Play Stores, you must be both physically present in the location and have a valid payment method from the new country. Fortunately, you can also change your Google Play Store country using one of our recommended VPNs.

Since Google Play Store is designed to automatically read your IP address and GPS information, youcan't change its location without a VPN service. That is why trying to access a restricted app from where it's blocked flashes a warning similar to the one below that says: “This app is not available for any of your devices.”

How to change country in google play store using vpn

TikTok - a geo-restricted app in Google Play Store.

However, you can secure your device and change its location regardless of where you are using a VPN that works with the Play Store. Apart from unblocking, a VPN also boosts your privacy by routing your internet traffic through an encrypted connection - making it harder for third parties to track you online. 

Note that it takes up to 12 months from the time you create your account to gain an opportunity to change your Google Play Store country. Once done, you can't change it again for at least a year. For this reason, changing locations on the Play Store is not always a comfortable choice for users. 

In this guide, we will take you through step-by-step instructions on how to change Google Play Store country with our top 3 VPN recommendations. You will also find links to our full VPN reviews and a quick FAQ section at the end with common queries. So, let's jump right in!

How to Change Your Google Play Store Country

When you are not moving to a new country but still want to change your Play Store country for some reason, feel free to follow the instruction below.

  1. Get a VPN that works with the Play Store. Our #1 recommendation is ExpressVPN.
  2. Launch the VPN app and when prompted, log in using your credentials.
  3. Select a VPN server of your wish and connect to it.
  4. Launch the Google Play Store app on your Android device.
  5. Go to the profile icon at the top right.
  6. Tap Settings > General > Account and device preferences > Country and profiles.
  7. Select the new country you want to add to your account.
  8. When prompted, add a payment method for the country and wait for 48 hours to update.
  9. That's it. Google Play Store will automatically change to the new country.

Best VPNs for Changing Google Play Account Country

For changing the Google Play Store country, you need a reliable VPN with native apps for mobile devices and multiple simultaneous connections. Keep in mind that your VPN service should have access to a sizable server fleet, strong protocols, and unblocking features. On top of that, it is a good idea to pick a service with a strict no-logs policy and reliable customer support.

After testing a bunch of VPN services, here is our in-depth rundown of the 3 best VPNs for changing Google Play Store account country.

  1. ExpressVPN  - Our #1-Rated VPN for Google Play Store
  2. NordVPN  - Best for High-End Security & Privacy Protection
  3. CyberGhost VPN  - Best for Unblocking Websites & Apps

1. ExpressVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN for Google Play Store

Servers 3,000+

Countries 94

Try Risk-Free

Parallel Connections 5

Live Chat Yes

ExpressVPN has been in the business since 2009 and proved itself over and over again as the best service in almost all VPN categories. It's also the fastest option available today - letting you stream media in the highest resolution possible and play online gamers on your Android.

The service is compatible with all major platforms. The Android app is especially impressive, with its intuitive design. Its single-button home screen makes connecting to its wide network fast without a fuss. The only other button on the home screen is a drop-down menu which you can use to select your favorite server among the 90+ countries covered. 

ExpressVPN includes many features that we don’t usually see in other VPN services, giving it an extra edge over its competition. Features like leak testing and an onboard IP address checker are treats along with an effective kill switch. 

Since 2021, ExpressVPN has leveled up its auditing game. Having multiple third-party audits under its belt, you can be sure that your data won't be misused by this VPN. It has also openly published about its set of trusted servers and open source Lightway protocol, which only makes it a more deserving contender for the top position.

A single ExpressVPN subscription can cover up to 5 devices. We found the setup guides and FAQs on its support section pretty useful and easy to follow. Even its 24/7 customer care was very responsive to our questions - often taking less than a few minutes to answer our queries.

If you want to know more about the service, consider reading our full ExpressVPN review.

PROS

  • Certified no-logs policy.
  • Highly polished interface.
  • High-end encryption.
  • Bulletproof VPN protocols.
  • Ultra-fast performance.
  • 24/7-available live chat support.

CONS

  • No in-depth customization.

2. NordVPN - Best for High-End Security & Privacy Protection

Servers 5,400+

Countries 59

Visit Site

Parallel Connections 6

Live Chat Yes

NordVPN is a premium service that packs several security features into a slick package and continues to innovate its tools as per the customer’s increasing demands for online security. 

It’s a well-known name in the still-newish world of VPNs. Right from the beginning, the service has managed to include some of the rarest features like multi-hop connections and "Onion over VPN." This is the very reason why privacy lovers appreciate NordVPN.

During our NordVPN tests, we did not have any problem changing the location on the Google Play Store. With its large selection of servers and 24/7 available support, even first-time users would find it easy to set it up across their devices. With one subscription, NordVPN offers up to 6 simultaneous connections, which should be enough as long as you don’t share your account with friends and family.

Its map-based interface gives it a more unique look when compared to its competitors. It’s no surprise that NordVPN has been able to establish itself as a solid product for everyday users. 

One of the reasons why NordVPN catches so many eyeballs is its rate of innovation. As a brand, it has never been afraid to accept changes across all its platforms. Its consistent and modern design is proof of that.

In addition to its UI, it was among the first brands to completely integrate RAM-only servers and WireGuard VPN protocol into its system. The only reason it misses the top position is due to the quality of our top recommendation.

To read more about the service, read our full NordVPN review.

PROS

  • Polished UI and UX design.
  • Multiple VPN protocols on offer.
  • Specialized servers on offer.
  • Great for practically any use.
  • 24/7-available live chat support.

CONS

  • Not the most extensive server reach.
  • Requires some optimization.

3. CyberGhost VPN - Best for Unblocking Websites & Apps

Servers 8,500+

Countries 90+

Visit Site

Parallel Connections 7

Live Chat Yes

With a stylish client powered by the latest technology, CyberGhost VPN offers one of the largest VPN server networks on the market. Spoofing location is no big deal with this service, no matter where you go. With over 90+ locations, this service could be a great choice for anyone who wants global VPN coverage. 

CyberGhost features a clean home screen interface with nothing except a connect button and a drop-down server list. The other tools and options, such as accounts, settings, and support page, are neatly tucked behind the settings icon at the top right corner. 

This service offers NoSpy servers, which are a set of private servers in a highly secured facility in Romania. However, these servers come as an add-on to your subscription.

It’s nice to see CyberGhost reach beyond other VPNs with its security tools. The malware and ad blocking feature on the service works pretty efficiently. Split tunneling lets you easily exempt specific URLs from going through your connection. Dedicated IPs offered by the service ensure that your traffic always appears to come from one single IP address, making it look a little less like a VPN trick.  

Still, CyberGhost VPN is not a complete package as the provider has yet to get audited by a third party. That said, we still think CyberGhost VPN could be a great companion for anyone looking for a reliable VPN provider.

For more, read our in-depth CyberGhost review.

PROS

  • Native software across the board.
  • Ultra-secure VPN protocols.
  • Extra-wide server network.
  • Dedicated IPs are available.
  • 24/7-available live chat support.

CONS

  • Missing a more recent audit.
  • High-end features are priced extra.

Final Thoughts

It’s not always time-efficient to try multiple VPNs with Google Play - which is why we have put together a comprehensive guide for you. If you are short on time, head straight to our #1 recommendation ExpressVPN for changing your Google Play Store country. It is the best service on the market with a native Android app, high-end protocols, and advanced encryption. 

If you want to do some deeper investigation beyond the given options, you can check our central guide on the best VPNs for Android in 2022.

FAQ

Yes, it is legal to change your country in the Google Play Store. However, keep in mind that it's against Google's Terms of Service to use a VPN service to access the geo-restricted apps in the Google Play Store.

It is worth noting that violation of Google's terms of service could lead to the suspension of your account. Having that said, a good VPN service is pretty hard to detect as long as you keep the service on at all times.

How Can I Download an App from Another Country or Android?

The best way to download an app from another country's Play Store is with a VPN service.

Start by clearing your device's data and cache, then pick the server location of your choice, and you should be able to download the app of your choice.

How Do I Change a Region in the Google Play Store?

To change your Play Store region, go to: Play Store > Profile Icon > Settings > General > Account and device preferences > Country and profiles > Select country.

However, note that you can only change your Google Play region with a valid payment method of the new country. It's also worth noting that you can change your country only once a year.

Can I Change My Google Play Store Country Without a Payment Method?

As per our knowledge, it's not possible to change regions in Google Play Store without a VPN unless you have a valid payment method from the new country.

The easiest way out is to make a second account for the new country and use it with any one of our recommended VPNs.

Can I Use a VPN to Change My Google Play Store Country?

Yes, you can use a VPN service to change your Google Play Store country. And since Google Play Store automatically detects your IP address, it's important to keep the VPN on at all times if you are spoofing your location. We recommend ExpressVPN.

Can I Change My Google Play Store Country Without a VPN?

Yes, it is possible to change your Google Play Store country without a VPN. You can do that by either going to another country or setting up a new account and linking it with a new valid payment method and a billing address from your new location.

If you have any questions about changing your country in Google Play Store with a VPN, let us know in the comments section below. We'd love to help.

Can I change Google Play country with VPN?

You can use a VPN to achieve this but keep in mind that you'll be required to enter a payment method from the country in question. Note that using this method means you won't be able to use your current payment method or existing Google Play balance and won't be able to change country again for 365 days.

How do I force Google Play to change the country?

Change your Google Play country.
On your Android device, open the Google Play Store app ..
At the top right, tap the profile icon..
Tap Settings General Account and device preferences. ... .
Tap the country where you want to add an account..
Follow the on-screen instructions to add a payment method for that country..

How do I enable VPN on Google Play?

Open your phone's Settings app..
Tap Network & internet. VPN. If you can't find it, search for "VPN." If you still can't find it, get help from your device manufacturer..
Tap the VPN you want..
Enter your username and password..
Tap Connect. If you use a VPN app, the app opens..

Why I Cannot change country in Google Play?

You must wait 12 months after initially creating a payments profile before you can change your Play country. You can only change your Play country once per year. If you change your country, you won't be able to change it back for one year.