Best VPNs for Netherlands 2026
Privacy from the Nine Eyes.
NordVPN
#1 FOR DUTCH PRIVACY
The Netherlands has some of the fastest internet speeds in Europe, but it is also a key member of the Nine Eyes intelligence alliance. This means your data can be legally shared with countries like the US and UK. To protect your privacy and access local content like NPO Start from abroad, you need a VPN with strong encryption and fast servers in Amsterdam.
TOP VPNs FOR THE NETHERLANDS RANKED
NordVPN: The Privacy Fortress
NordVPN is our top recommendation for the Netherlands because it perfectly balances speed with security. With over 200 servers in Amsterdam alone, you are guaranteed a fast connection. Crucially, its verified no-logs policy ensures that even if Dutch authorities request data, there is nothing to hand over.
Why it works:
- Privacy: Based in Panama (outside Nine Eyes jurisdiction), offering a layer of legal protection.
- Meshnet: Allows you to route traffic through your home device in the Netherlands while travelling.
- Streaming: Unblocks NPO Start, RTL XL, and Videoland effortlessly.
Surfshark: The Family Choice
Dutch households often have many connected devices. Surfshark's unlimited simultaneous connections policy makes it the perfect budget-friendly option for families. It provides excellent speeds for streaming content in 4K without buffering.
Why it works:
- MultiHop: Route your connection through two countries (e.g., UK then NL) for double encryption.
- Speed: Fast enough to handle the high-speed fibre connections common in the Netherlands.
- Bypasser: Split-tunneling lets banking apps bypass the VPN to avoid security triggers.
ExpressVPN: The Reliable Veteran
ExpressVPN offers unmatched reliability. While it is more expensive, its Lightway protocol ensures a stable connection that rarely drops. It has servers in The Hague, Amsterdam, and Rotterdam, giving you precise control over your virtual location.
Why it works:
- Threat Manager: Stops apps on your phone from sharing data with third-party trackers.
- TrustedServer: RAM-only servers ensure all data is wiped with every reboot.
- Router App: Easy to install on routers to protect devices that don't support VPNs natively.
Mullvad: The Privacy Purist
For users in the Netherlands who are specifically concerned about government surveillance and the Nine Eyes alliance, Mullvad is the gold standard. It requires no email to sign up and focuses entirely on anonymity, though it is not recommended for streaming services like Netflix.
Why it works:
- No Registration: Generates a random account number; no email or phone number required.
- Crypto Payments: Accepts Bitcoin and Monero for fully anonymous payments.
- Transparency: All apps are open-source and regularly audited.
CyberGhost: The Streaming Specialist
If your main goal is watching Dutch TV from abroad, CyberGhost is a fantastic choice. It has dedicated servers labeled specifically "For Streaming", optimised for platforms like Netflix NL and others. It removes the guesswork of finding a working server.
Why it works:
- Smart Rules: Can automatically launch your browser and connect to a server when you open the app.
- Server Count: Massive network reduces congestion during peak viewing hours.
- No Spy Servers: Independently operated servers for extra privacy assurance.
Netherlands VPNs Compared
| VPN Service | Privacy Jurisdiction | Best For | Verdict | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Panama (Safe) | Speed & Privacy | #1 Overall | |
| Surfshark | Netherlands | Families | Best Value | |
| ExpressVPN | BVI (Safe) | Reliability | Consistent | |
| Mullvad | Sweden | Anonymity | Private | |
| CyberGhost | Romania | Streaming | Easy Use | |
| IPVanish | USA (Risk) | Speed | Fast | |
| Hide.me | Malaysia | Stealth | Advanced | |
| PureVPN | BVI | Audits | Option | |
| PrivadoVPN | Switzerland | Free Tier | Freemium | |
| ZoogVPN | Greece | Budget | Cheap | |
| iTop VPN | Hong Kong | UI | Basic |
Privacy & The Nine Eyes Alliance
The Reality: The Netherlands is a member of the Nine Eyes, an international intelligence-sharing agreement that includes the USA, UK, and France. This means that Dutch ISPs can be compelled to share user data with foreign intelligence agencies. Additionally, new local laws grant Dutch authorities expanded powers to tap internet cables and monitor communications.
The Solution: A VPN encrypts your traffic, preventing ISPs from seeing what you are doing. By using a provider with a strict no-logs policy (like NordVPN or Mullvad), you ensure that even if authorities request your data, the VPN provider has no information to hand over.
Streaming Dutch Content Abroad
Expats and travellers often lose access to their favourite Dutch channels when leaving the country. A VPN with Dutch servers allows you to reclaim access to:
- NPO Start/Plus: Watch public broadcasting channels (NPO 1, 2, 3) from anywhere.
- Ziggo GO: Access your TV subscription, including Formula 1 and football broadcasts, while on holiday.
- Videoland: Stream local Dutch reality TV and series without geographical restrictions.
- RTL XL: Catch up on programmes from RTL 4, RTL 5, and others.
Setup Guide: Getting a Dutch IP
Follow these simple steps to secure your connection or access Dutch content:
- Choose a Provider: Select a VPN with fast servers in Amsterdam (we recommend NordVPN).
- Install the App: Download the software for your device (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android).
- Connect: Open the server list and select "Netherlands". You will now have a Dutch IP address.
- Verify: Visit a site like "WhatIsMyIP" to confirm your location has changed to the Netherlands.
Legal Disclaimer & Safety
The Netherlands has strict copyright enforcement laws:
- Downloading: Historically, downloading for personal use was tolerated in the Netherlands. However, this changed in 2014. Downloading copyrighted material from illegal sources is now prohibited by law.
- BREIN Foundation: This anti-piracy organisation actively monitors swarms and targets uploaders and illegal streaming services.
- Use Responsibly: FindCheapVPNs encourages the use of VPNs for privacy and security. We do not condone copyright infringement or illegal downloading.
FAQs for Netherlands VPNs
Is torrenting legal in the Netherlands?
No. While it was previously tolerated for personal use, a European Court of Justice ruling in 2014 made downloading from illegal sources unlawful. Uploading copyrighted material has always been illegal.
Can I watch Netflix US from the Netherlands?
Yes. By connecting your VPN to a server in the United States, you can access the American Netflix library, which often has a larger selection of movies and TV shows than the Dutch version.
Why is my internet slower with a VPN?
Encryption adds a small overhead to your data. However, premium VPNs like NordVPN use the WireGuard protocol, which minimises speed loss. If you are experiencing slow speeds, try connecting to a server physically closer to your location.
