ZeroToVPN
Updated February 2026
🇩🇪

Best VPN for Germany

Avoid copyright Abmahnung letters and protect your digital privacy

Fully legal

VPN Legal Status in Germany

VPN use is fully legal in Germany. Germany has strong privacy traditions (GDPR, BDSG) but also strict copyright enforcement. Torrenting copyrighted content frequently results in expensive Abmahnung (warning letters) demanding hundreds to thousands of euros.

Fully legalInternet Freedom Score: 77/100 (Freedom House)

Why You Need a VPN in Germany

Avoid expensive Abmahnung copyright letters (often €500-1500+)
Access US/UK streaming libraries (Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer)
Protect privacy despite 14 Eyes membership
Bypass GEMA-related content restrictions
Secure public WiFi at cafes and airports

Blocked Services in Germany

Some GEMA-restricted content
Certain extremist websites

Best VPNs for Germany in 2026

Tested and verified to work reliably in Germany

#1 Pick for Germany
NO

NordVPN

4.8
Servers
7,400+
Countries
118
Devices
10
$12.99/mo
$2.99/mo
Save 77%
Read Full Review
Kill SwitchNo LogsNetflixP2PAES-256
SU

Surfshark

4.6
Servers
4,500+
Countries
100
Devices
Unlimited
$15.45/mo
$1.99/mo
Save 87%
Read Full Review
Kill SwitchNo LogsNetflixP2PAES-256
EX

ExpressVPN

4.7
Servers
3,000+
Countries
105
Devices
8
$12.95/mo
$8.32/mo
Save 36%
Read Full Review
Kill SwitchNo LogsNetflixP2PAES-256
CY

CyberGhost

4.4
Servers
11,690+
Countries
100
Devices
7
$12.99/mo
$2.03/mo
Save 84%
Read Full Review
Kill SwitchNo LogsNetflixP2PAES-256

Key VPN Features for Germany

German servers
P2P protection
No-logs (strict)
Kill switch
GDPR-compliant

Tips for Using a VPN in Germany

Always use a kill switch to prevent accidental IP leaks while torrenting

Choose VPNs with multiple German server locations for local content

Use P2P-optimized servers to avoid Abmahnung copyright letters

NordVPN and Surfshark offer excellent German server coverage

Frequently Asked Questions

Are VPNs legal in Germany?

Yes, VPNs are completely legal in Germany. Many Germans use VPNs for privacy protection in line with the country's strong data protection traditions.

Can I avoid Abmahnung with a VPN?

Yes, a VPN hides your IP address, making it much harder for copyright trolls to identify and send you Abmahnung letters. Choose a VPN with strict no-logs policy and a kill switch.

What are the best VPNs for streaming in Germany?

NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark reliably unblock US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other international streaming services from Germany.