How to watch Portuguese TV online abroad in 2025

A VPN is perfect if you want to watch Portuguese TV while abroad. You’ll be able to access various geo-blocked Portuguese channels with a VPN. Here’s what you need to know.

If you’re trying to access any sites or streaming services from Portugal while abroad, you might find that they have been geo-restricted. In other words, content is only available for users in Portugal, and you’ll be blocked if you try to gain access from anywhere else. This includes popular Portuguese channels such as SIC, TVI, and RTP1. Typically, broadcasters have to block content to enforce licensing deals that restrict rights to a specific region. 

You’ll be able to bypass many online restrictions with the use of a VPN. It routes your traffic through an encrypted tunnel, while assigning the user with a new IP address that matches the server location selected. For example, a Portuguese VPN server will give the user a temporary Portuguese IP address that will work to access numerous blocked sites from abroad. A VPN will also improve online security, allowing the user to browse the web anonymously. 

We’ll take you through each of the best VPNs for Portuguese TV in detail below, but first, here's a quick step-by-step guide on how to watch Portuguese TV abroad.

How to use a VPN to watch Portuguese TV 

It won’t take long to get started if you want to set up a provider to work with Portuguese TV content. We’ve put together an easy-to-follow guide to take you through the necessary steps. 

Here’s how to set up a VPN to watch Portuguese TV:

1. Firstly, you’ll need to pick a VPN provider with Portuguese servers. Our top choice is NordVPN, thanks to its servers in Portugal, fast speeds, excellent unblocking ability, and solid security features. Plus, it comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Sign up with the VPN. 
3. Download the relevant app to your device(s). Some of the providers in this list allow you to connect as many devices as you like at once.
4. Sign in, and select a Portuguese VPN server. This will allow you to obtain a Portuguese IP address.
5. You should now be able to access geo-restricted sites and services in Portugal and abroad.

That’s all it takes to get started, and you’ll be able to access a long list of blocked Portuguese sites and services while overseas. If you’re having trouble, try deleting your cookies to ensure that the streaming service doesn’t remember your real location.

Alternatively, try another Portuguese VPN server, or contact the provider’s support team for more help. This also works with other locations. For example, American servers will access Netflix US, along with other popular platforms. 

Now you know how to get started, we will look at the best VPNs for Portuguese users in more detail. If you're in a rush, here is a quick rundown detailing what you can expect from each provider.

Best VPNs to watch Portuguese TV online abroad:

1. NordVPN: The best VPN for Portuguese TV. 20+ servers in Portugal that are ideal for accessing TV from abroad. Unique features, fast speeds, no-logs, and audited apps and infrastructure. Offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. 
2. Surfshark: Our top budget VPN for watching Portuguese TV. Unlimited device connections, servers in 100+ countries, works well with platforms like SIC and TVI, including Portuguese subtitles. 
3. ExpressVPN: Popular provider with beginner-friendly apps for all devices. Works with SIC and RTP1, custom Lightway protocol, and a strict no-logs policy. 
4. CyberGhost VPN: 50+ Portugal VPN servers, will access services like TVI and Netflix, fast connection speeds, and affordable subscriptions. 
5. Proton VPN: Privacy-specialist with streaming servers in Portugal and elsewhere. Free locations available and various advanced features. 
6. PureVPN: Easy access to Portuguese TV while you're abroad, as well as other geo-restricted services. Fast speeds and support for torrenting. 
7. IPVanish: Speedy servers in Portugal and beyond, which are perfect for streaming Portuguese language content. No-logs and unlimited device connections. 

Summary Table

If you’re in need of a VPN for watching Portuguese TV, it can be difficult to pick the best provider for the job. Some VPNs will only work with a few Portuguese streaming services, and others won’t be able to access any platforms whatsoever.

We've been able to narrow the field with our inclusion criteria. Here are some of the non-negotiable characteristics we looked for when picking out the best providers for Portuguese TV:

• Servers in Portugal are necessary for watching TV from the region
• Connection speeds will dictate how efficiently the user is able to perform any online task, and are especially important for streaming content from Portugal while abroad 
• Streaming access, as well as allowing the user to bypass blocks on other Portuguese sites and services from overseas 
• Privacy and security, including everything from notable features to available protocols
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN must operate a 100% diskless server network and have had its infrastructure audited by a reputable third party

For more information about the specific criteria we used for picking the best VPNs for Portuguese TV, check out the testing methodology section found later in this article.

Best VPNs for Portuguese TV

Here’s a roundup with detailed information about each of the VPNs that have made it onto this list.

NordVPN can be used to access services such as SIC and TVI, which is no surprise given that there are 20+ servers in Portugal to pick from. In total, it has over 8,100+ servers in 126+ countries. It can also reliably access RTP1, RTP2, and Netflix, and that’s without accounting for the various international platforms that it also has no trouble unblocking. 

Nord is packed with unique features that help it stand out from the crowd. There’s NordLynx, which is a custom protocol that allows for average speeds of roughly 200 Mbps. Plus, it also comes with built-in Smart DNS (SmartPlay), so it's easy to securely access content while protected by the VPN.  

Security is top-notch. The VPN has been independently audited by PWC Switzerland, including both its apps and infrastructure. That’s an impressive result when coupled with a Panama HQ. NordVPN passed every leak test with flying colors, and servers are RAM-only.  

It’s hard to think of many flaws, although a limit of 10 simultaneous device connections is lower than average. If you plan to torrent, consider alternatives like Proton VPN, especially if you need port forwarding.

THE BEST VPN FOR PORTUGUESE TV: NordVPN is our top recommendation for anyone who wants a VPN for streaming TV from Portugal. Fast speeds, unique features, and audited apps and infrastructure. Risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full NordVPN review.

Surfshark is another capable solution for anyone aiming to stream Portuguese content from abroad via services like SIC and TVI. It is a budget provider, but there are 3,200+ high-speed (190 Mbps) servers to choose from in 100+ countries. Surfshark works with lots of international platforms, such as US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.

As you’ll be able to connect as many devices as you like at the same time, Surfshark is ideal if you plan to share an account with friends or family. You’ll find apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV.

Features include Smart DNS, MultiHop, a sturdy kill switch, malware filtering, ad blocking, obfuscation, and more. You’d be forgiven for thinking that Surfshark was more of a high-end option, given it has almost everything you could ask for from a modern service. 

In fact, it matches up to more expensive providers in almost every respect, and it shouldn’t be disregarded if you need a VPN for Portugal. Surfshark only begins to creak a little if you decide to connect to an obscure location, which is likely to see slower speeds and buffering. 

THE BEST BUDGET VPN FOR PORTUGUESE TV: Surfshark is hard to beat if you’re in need of a low-cost VPN to stream content in multiple locations. Speedy WireGuard connections, unlimited devices, and a simple 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark.

ExpressVPN offers a smooth experience via beginner-friendly apps for every platform. It works well with various Portuguese streaming services, including SIC and RTP1. The provider is arguably the best option if you just want to access content with a minimal amount of hassle.

It has 3,000+ servers in 105+ countries, and average speeds of 175 Mbps will ensure a lag-free experience. ExpressVPN deploys its custom Lightway protocol to good effect, and it has been independently assessed by Cure53. On that note, the VPN is fully audited, including both its apps and infrastructure.

Split tunneling, obfuscation, and Smart DNS are some of the more advanced features you’ll find with ExpressVPN, while its customer support is one of the best in the business. 

Since the monthly plan only allows five device connections, which increases to eight with an annual subscription, it’s not ideal for those seeking more flexibility. These limits can be remedied with the use of a VPN router, and ExpressVPN comes with custom firmware that is compatible with various models. Alternatively, there are dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, as well as support for Linux and browsers. 

BEGINNER-FRIENDLY STREAMING APPS: ExpressVPN has been an optimal pick for streaming for over a decade. Custom protocol, audited apps and infrastructure, Smart DNS, and industry-leading support. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

CyberGhost VPN will be able to handle streaming Portuguese content via TV stations like ARtv and SIC. The provider has a long list of servers to choose from, including 50+ in Lisbon alone. In total, you’ll find 11,500+ servers in 100+ countries spread across an expansive network.  

It performed well during testing, with average speeds of 296 Mbps. This result means that CyberGhost VPN is one of the fastest VPNs on the market, which is always good news if you plan to use a provider for tasks like gaming or torrenting. 

CyberGhost VPN comes with built-in ad and malware blocking, while NoSpy servers are fully owned, operated, and controlled by the provider. NoSpy is ideal if you’d like to improve online privacy by connecting to bare-metal servers. Additional features include split tunneling and Smart DNS.

An always-on kill switch for macOS, Android, and iOS can't be disabled, which might be annoying if you don’t have the most consistent connection to begin with. It’s also missing a few features seen elsewhere, such as obfuscation.

SIMPLE STREAMING APPS: CyberGhost VPN is a popular provider with affordable deals and simple apps that make it easy to stream content. Fast speeds, NoSpy servers, and a large network of servers in Portugal and elsewhere. Extended 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost VPN.

Proton VPN is predominantly focused on privacy above all else, but there are still an impressive 48+ servers found in Lisbon that can be used for streaming content. The provider comes with a performance-boosting VPN Accelerator and posted an average speed of 320 Mbps during testing. As such, it’s a great option if you want to stream sports or for intensive tasks like torrenting. 

Further advanced features include Secure Core servers, which route user traffic through privacy-friendly locations before reaching its destination. For example, if you want to connect to Portugal, you can route your data via Sweden or Switzerland first. Proton VPN allows for port forwarding and works to block malware, ads, and trackers. In total, you can connect up to 10 devices at the same time.

Proton has free servers in three locations, although coverage is limited to the US, the Netherlands, and Japan. As such, you won’t be able to use the free version for a Portuguese IP address or for streaming content.  

Subscriptions might be a little pricier than average, but it’s hard to think of many drawbacks if you plan to use many of the features on offer. 

POWERFUL VPN FOR STREAMING: Proton VPN has built its reputation by providing privacy, but it’s still capable of streaming Portuguese content from abroad. Exceptional speeds and various advanced features, like Secure Core servers. Limited free version and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Proton VPN.

PureVPN is an easy-to-use, low-cost provider that offers excellent value for money for budget-conscious users. You'll have no issues obtaining a Portuguese IP address from abroad, thanks to its six servers in Lisbon, granting you access to geo-restricted platforms like RTP Play, SIC Online, TVI Player, NOS Play, and Meo. It also works with popular international streaming platforms, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and HBO Max.

Fast speeds make it an excellent choice for 4K streaming, gaming, and torrenting. You'll also be able to have video calls with loved ones back home without interference. 

Security features include a kill switch, AES encryption, and DNS leak prevention. PureVPN also has a verified no-logging policy. For those who wish to torrent, you will need to pay a little extra for port forwarding.

Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux, and you can connect up to 10 devices at the same time. Live chat can be slow at times, but it remains an option for contacting the customer support team. 

GREAT VALUE FOR MONEY: PureVPN is an affordable VPN that offers you plenty for the price you pay. This will appeal to prospective VPN users who simply want to watch their favorite Portuguese TV shows while abroad. Top option for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. Decent privacy measures. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of PureVPN.

IPVanish is great for streaming Portuguese content with a few caveats. It’s headquartered in the United States, so it might not be the best option if you’d prefer to avoid one of the more troublesome jurisdictions on the planet.

It can be used to access the likes of ARTV and RTP Memória, as well as SIC and TVI. The same goes for Netflix USA, along with additional US content like HBO Max, Prime Video USA, Disney Plus, CBS, and NBC.

You’ll be able to use an unlimited number of simultaneous devices with a single account, and average speeds exceed 250 Mbps. It comes with a verified no-logs policy, while features include split tunneling, a SOCKS5 proxy, and automatic WiFi protection.

It’s a little lacking in the features department compared to some of the alternatives seen above, but it’ll get the job done if you just want to be able to stream content from Portugal while abroad. 

UNLIMITED DEVICES: IPVanish will be able to handle streaming Portuguese content, working well with SIC, TVI, and more. Unlimited devices, fast speeds, SOCKS5 proxy, verified no-logs policy, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

Testing methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for Portuguese TV  

Rather than picking out providers at random, we’ve compiled a comprehensive VPN testing methodology. We test and compare the best VPNs in the business. 

Our strict criteria mean that only providers dedicated to digital privacy, with excellent usability and optimal performance, can make it onto our list. Below, you can see the criteria we used to pick the best VPNs for Portuguese TV:

• Servers: Servers in Portugal are necessary if you’d like to access streaming services securely with a VPN. Ideally, the provider will have 10+ servers in Lisbon.
• Speeds and performance: Regardless of your VPN usage, connection speeds significantly impact almost any online task. Speeds are especially important if you’re using a VPN for streaming.
• Privacy and security: How does the VPN perform in terms of security and privacy? We look at features, their implementation, and everything from leak protection to encryption and protocols. 
• Third-party audits: Trust is the foundation of the value that VPNs provide. You are essentially placing more faith in your VPN provider than you are in your ISP. Almost every provider says they are a ‘no logs' VPN. The only ways to test this claim are either through the courts or through audits. We will only consider providers for our top three positions if they have undergone infrastructure audits from a reputable third party. While this isn't foolproof, it's the closest the industry has to a verification process for logging policies.
• Diskless infrastructure: Again, this is a prerequisite to be considered for one of the top three positions on BleepingComputer. While the data stored on a VPN server should be minimal, it could, theoretically, be accessed if the servers were seized or hacked. Moving processes to RAM means that no information can be physically taken from servers, and it is wiped on shutdown. It can also easily be wiped as part of regular security procedures.

Portuguese TV VPN FAQs

Can I use a free VPN for Portuguese TV?

A free VPN is often more trouble than it’s worth. It’s going to be difficult to find a free provider that will be able to access Portuguese streaming services, while trustworthy VPNs don’t tend to offer free servers in the region. 

Free VPNs are always tempting, but there’s a chance that they will lack the encryption needed to keep your data safe. Free providers have been found to contain malware, while there’s also the possibility that the VPN could sell your data to third parties. 

As such, we’d always recommend staying away from free services, which tend to see the user and their data as the product.

Is it legal to watch Portuguese TV with a VPN?

Yes, it’s legal to use a VPN in most countries throughout the world. There are some exceptions, such as Russia and China, which ban or block providers to some degree. Using a VPN to access geo-restricted TV channels may go against the terms of service, but it’s unlikely that you’ll be breaking the law.

What Portuguese TV channels can be viewed for free?

Various Portuguese channels can be watched online for free. Here’s a brief list of some of the content you can expect to access:

• SIC
• RTP1
• RTP2
• TVI
• RTP3
• RTP Memória
• ARtv

Why is Portuguese TV blocked from abroad?

In most cases, online blocks are necessary due to licensing agreements that dictate where content can be shown. For example, a streaming service like Netflix may only have the rights to show specific content in Portugal, so they’re obliged to block users aiming to gain access from abroad. The same is true for international streaming platforms such as BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime.

Why do some VPNs not work with Portuguese streaming services?

It can be a costly endeavor for providers to work with streaming services. Streaming platforms often ban VPN IP addresses to block access. Some VPNs prioritize privacy, while others lack the resources to continually provide fresh IP addresses for accessing geo-restricted content.