5 Best VPNs for Iraq That Work in 2025: Fast & Secure

Most VPN providers don’t work in Iraq. The Iraqi government has repeatedly restricted internet access, particularly during times of political unrest or protests, by imposing shutdowns or blocking popular VPN services to limit access to social media, messaging apps, and specific websites.

To find the best VPNs for Iraq, we started with over 150 services and narrowed them down through real-world testing. Most failed because they couldn’t avoid detection or caused significant drops in speeds. After my team and I conducted weeks of testing, I shortlisted a handful of VPNs that reliably work in Iraq, protecting your privacy without sacrificing speed. They also provide reliable access to both Iraqi and international content.

Each recommended VPN offers robust security features and the technology needed to shield your activity from Iraq’s surveillance systems. No matter where you connect from, these services protect your identity, prevent IP and DNS leaks, and let you browse safely without worrying about data tracking. Most VPNs on this list can also securely access popular streaming platforms, like STARZPLAY, MBC1, and Netflix.

Best VPNs for Iraq — Full Analysis (Updated 2025)

1. ExpressVPN — Automatic Obfuscation on Every Server for Private Access to the Web in Iraq

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested June 2025

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN's automatic obfuscation conceals your VPN traffic so that it won't be flagged in Iraq. This helps you avoid triggering VPN blocks while maintaining anonymous internet access on restricted networks. During my tests, the obfuscation worked seamlessly without requiring any special settings or server switches — just make sure the protocol is set to Automatic.

Its Lightway protocol proved especially valuable for maintaining stable connections on Iraqi mobile networks. Unlike other protocols that can be unstable on Iraqi cellular data, Lightway's streamlined code helped maintain consistent speeds even when switching between WiFi and mobile data. This made it perfect for staying secure while using public networks in places like cafes and hotels. During testing, we recorded average download speeds of 180.19Mbps, testing nearby servers from a base connection of 237Mbps.

You can watch shows labeled as free on Shahid without needing an account

With RAM-only servers (TrustedServer Technology), your data gets wiped with every reboot, so there’s nothing for Iraqi authorities or anyone to collect. Plus, its no-logs policy has been verified through multiple independent audits to confirm ExpressVPN doesn't collect or share your data. This means your online activity remains private, even if the Iraqi government requests it.

You can also try ExpressVPN risk-free on up to 8 devices in Iraq. If you're not 100% happy with it, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee*. To test this out, I canceled my purchase after 3 weeks by using the 24/7 live chat and got my money back in just a few working days.

Useful Features

• Located in the British Virgin Islands. ExpressVPN operates in accordance with strict privacy laws in this jurisdiction. Since the British Virgin Islands aren’t part of any intelligence-sharing alliances (5/9/14 Eyes), your data stays private and can’t be shared with Iraqi authorities or any foreign government.
• Perfect Forward Secrecy. The VPN regularly changes your encryption keys. This makes it nearly impossible for anyone to decrypt your traffic, even if they manage to intercept part of your connection.
• Private DNS. ExpressVPN uses its own private DNS servers to handle your web requests. This keeps your activity hidden from Iraqi ISPs and surveillance systems, preventing any DNS leaks that could expose your browsing.
• Automatic kill switch. If the VPN connection unexpectedly drops while you’re online in Iraq, the kill switch immediately blocks all internet traffic. This protects your actual IP address and prevents your data from being inadvertently exposed to online monitoring.

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers for Reliable Streaming and Torrenting in and Outside Iraq

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost offers servers specifically designed for streaming, P2P networks, and privacy, all of which are constantly tested for optimal performance. The streaming options also frequently obtain new IP addresses to bypass VPN blocks. I easily found each special server category during tests, thanks to CyberGhost’s intuitive app layout. Although there are no streaming-optimized servers for Iraqi platforms, many other services offer Arabic content, including Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

There are also gaming-optimized servers to play PUBG without lag

The NoSpy servers give you extra protection while browsing in Iraq. Since only CyberGhost’s team manages these servers, there’s less risk of third-party access. However, you need to upgrade to access these servers. Its automatic WiFi protection also secures your connection the moment you join Iraqi public networks, which is especially important when using unsecured WiFi hotspots in Iraq.

Its server network includes multiple locations near Iraq, which helps you get faster and more stable connections even during local internet disruptions. While not as fast as ExpressVPN, we still achieved an impressive 156.44Mbps testing servers in Los Angeles. We watched Lilo & Stitch on Disney+ without issues, even with Arabic subtitles. Video calls on WhatsApp were also in crystal clear quality.

The VPN’s monthly offer is more expensive, but long-term options cost only a fraction of the price. Plus, you can try CyberGhost for a lengthy 45 days using its money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• Block Content feature. Enable this feature to automatically cross-reference all URLs with a database of known malware, protecting your devices from malicious links.
• Android APK. If you’re already in Iraq, CyberGhost’s website and Google Play Store may be blocked. However, you can still download the Android app with the APK.
• Simultaneous connections. CyberGhost allows you to connect up to 7 devices simultaneously in Iraq, which is far more devices than I ever use while traveling.
• Smart rules. You can automate CyberGhost to connect when you start your device or open certain apps. I used this with my torrenting client and Firefox so that I was always protected when browsing or file-sharing.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — MACE Automatically Block Ads, Malware, and Trackers in Iraq

Works With:

ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix Disney+

APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA’s MACE feature blocks malicious ads, trackers, and dangerous websites that could expose your data in Iraq. When testing, it was easy to enable in the Settings menu, and I noticed slightly faster speeds since fewer adverts were slowing down my connection. MACE effectively removed all banner and side-panel ads on CCN's website.

The VPN offers excellent customization options to optimize your connection according to your specific needs in Iraq. With the OpenVPN protocol, you can choose between 128-bit and 256-bit encryption — I recommend 256-bit for maximum security on Iraqi networks, but if your connection is slow, consider decreasing it instead. Still, WireGuard gave us the best speeds when testing servers in Turkey and Egypt.

You can enable MACE in the Privacy tab of the Settings menu

My only concern with PIA is that it’s based in the US, a member of the 5 Eyes Alliance. However, there’s nothing to worry about as it adheres to an audited no-logs policy. It won’t store or share any of your data with the Iraqi government or any other third parties. Plus, we tested for multiple types of leaks, including DNS and IPv6, and PIA kept my personal information hidden on every server we tried.

With its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try all of PIA's features without financial risk. It also offers unlimited simultaneous connections and streaming servers in specific locations, like the US, UK, Japan, Australia, and more.

Useful Features

• Multi-Hop and Obfuscation. This adds an extra layer of encryption to your connection in Iraq by routing your traffic through two VPN servers instead of just one. You can enable it in the Multi-Hop tab of the Settings menu.
• MTU size setting. If your local internet connection is unstable or slow in Iraq, PIA allows you to lower the MTU size. This breaks your data into smaller packets, which can help maintain more stable speeds even on unreliable networks.
• Language option for Arabic. You can switch the app’s interface to Arabic, making it easier to navigate and adjust settings if Arabic is your preferred language.

4. NordVPN — Onion Over VPN Servers for Additional Security and Privacy in Iraq

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN's Onion Over VPN servers add an extra layer of privacy by routing your traffic through both the VPN and Tor networks simultaneously. This makes it much harder for anyone to track your online activity in Iraq. When we connected to a nearby server in Turkey during tests, our data was first encrypted by NordVPN and then routed through the Tor network — all without needing to open the Tor browser separately.

You have access to multiple OpenVPN-based protocols to stay connected in Iraq, even during restrictions. UDP gives you better speeds, but if the connection becomes unstable, switching to TCP can help. Just select your protocol in the Connection settings and choose an option from the Obfuscated servers tab to avoid detection.

The only issue I had with NordVPN was that its Windows app took longer to launch than the other VPN apps. However, the apps worked smoothly and without any delays once they were connected. We could watch STARZPLAY and Shahid uninterrupted using a server in Dubai.

Useful Features

• Threat Protection. Real-time malicious site and ad blocker that can also detect and stop infected files from downloading, in case you click a harmful link in Iraq.
• Meshnet. This feature operates as a secure LAN and lets you connect devices remotely. It’s ideal for file sharing, work collaborations, and multiplayer gaming in Iraq.

5. Surfshark — Unlimited Simultaneous Connections to Protect All Your Devices in Iraq and Abroad

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfshark offers the added benefit of unlimited simultaneous connections, protecting all your devices in Iraq without compromising speed. Even when we were streaming on 12 devices simultaneously during testing, we didn't experience any disconnections. We maintained an impressive average of 164.05Mbps on nearby servers.

CleanWeb automatically detects and blocks malicious URLs, keeping you safer in Iraq while you browse the web. In addition to preventing malware and trackers that infect your devices and threaten your privacy, it stops your device from loading pop-ups.

The only issue with Surfshark is that it’s based in the Netherlands, which is a part of the 9 Eyes Alliance. However, there’s nothing to worry about, as it has an audited no-logs policy and uses RAM-only servers, similar to ExpressVPN.

Useful Features

• Camouflage mode. This hides the fact that you’re using a VPN in Iraq by obfuscating your traffic, so ISPs can’t see that you’re using Surfshark.

Quick Comparison Table: Iraq VPN Features

To help you quickly compare the key features needed for a VPN in Iraq, I've created this table highlighting the most important aspects based on my testing. I've focused on features that matter most to Iraq users, such as obfuscation capabilities and server performance for uninterrupted internet access.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, CyberGhost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Iraq

To evaluate which VPNs work best in Iraq, we conducted in-depth testing to confirm we could bypass internet restrictions in the country. Our team prioritized user anonymity by verifying that each VPN offers robust no-logs policies, strong AES 256-bit encryption, and leak protection features. We also examined whether the VPNs support obfuscation, designed to disguise VPN traffic as regular internet activity, thereby helping to avoid detection or blocking during periods of heightened censorship or unrest.

Speed tests were conducted on multiple nearby servers (including those in the UAE, Egypt, and Qatar) to confirm fast and stable connections that support HD streaming on Sahid, Netflix, STARZPLAY, and other services. Only VPNs that maintained consistent performance while operating under restrictive conditions were included in our final recommendations for Iraq.

Internet Censorship in Iraq

Internet censorship and surveillance have become increasingly prevalent in Iraq, with restrictions intensifying during periods of civil unrest. The government frequently blocks access to social media platforms, news websites, and communication tools to control the flow of information. These blocks are often implemented suddenly and without warning, making reliable internet access unpredictable.

During the 2019-2020 protests, authorities implemented widespread internet blackouts, leaving citizens completely disconnected for days. When partial service was restored, social media platforms remained blocked, and internet speeds were deliberately throttled to limit communication and coordination among protesters. These disruptions persist during periods of heightened political tension.

The government is also working to pass more restrictive cybercrime laws that would impose harsh penalties for online speech deemed threatening to national security or public order. These vague definitions could criminalize legitimate online expression and increase self-censorship among Iraqi internet users.

FAQs on Using a VPN for Iraq

Which VPN for Iraq has a Chrome extension?

All the VPNs on this list feature a Chrome browser extension. Browser plugins don’t offer the same level of functionality as a VPN, but they make it easy to protect your web browsing without having to open separate programs. For non-browser uses, however, you still need to use your VPN’s native app in Iraq.

Is using a VPN illegal in Iraq?

Most VPNs are illegal in Iraq. The Iraqi government blocks VPNs that aren’t approved by the state and uses various forms of internet censorship. So not all VPNs work there, and only a select few have proven to be reliable.

Remember to thoroughly research the laws regarding the use of a VPN in Iraq before downloading one, and be cautious of potential implications before proceeding. The team and I don’t condone using a VPN for any illegal activities.

Can I use a free VPN in Iraq?

Yes, but I don't recommend using free VPNs in countries like Iraq that have restrictive internet policies. Some free services sell your information to third parties to make money. Other free VPNs limit their security, speed, and access capabilities, forcing you to upgrade to their paid versions. A premium VPN with a money-back guarantee is a more reliable alternative.

Are social media sites like Instagram, Facebook, and Discord blocked in Iraq?

Most of the time, social media apps like Facebook, Instagram, and Discord work in Iraq. However, during protests, elections, or periods of political unrest, the government often temporarily blocks these platforms or shuts down the internet entirely. That’s why many people in Iraq use a VPN to keep access to their favorite apps and stay connected even during sudden restrictions.

Which VPN has an Iraq server?

Most major VPNs don’t offer servers in Iraq due to government surveillance and strict regulations. Therefore, it isn’t safe for an internet company to have a presence there. However, all the VPNs on my list have servers in nearby countries, such as Egypt, Israel, and Qatar. Connecting to these nearby servers can still provide you with access to your favorite Iraqi content.

While a few smaller providers claim to have servers based in Iraq, they often lack robust privacy protections and can put your data at risk. For better security and reliable access, it’s safer to connect to nearby countries using a trusted VPN with a strict no-logs policy and strong encryption.

Get the Best VPN for Iraq

In Iraq, heavy censorship and government surveillance make it hard to access the content you want and stay safe online. Apps get blocked, websites are taken down, and even simple posts can lead to severe penalties.

A reliable VPN, such as ExpressVPN, provides online privacy, allowing you to use the internet without worrying about your online activity being monitored. It encrypts your traffic, hides your real location, and helps you safely access your favorite websites. With the right VPN, you can stay connected, avoid harsh restrictions, and keep your personal data private, no matter how strict the government’s online controls get.