Best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey in 2024: Bypass country restrictions

WhatsApp and other social media platforms have been blocked in Turkey on several occasions, forcing ISPs to implement restrictions on the government’s behalf. This is disappointing to anyone living in or visiting the country who wants to use the secure messaging app to stay in touch with friends, family, and colleagues. Luckily, a VPN provides you with an easy way to bypass the block and use WhatsApp in Turkey should the block be implemented again.

Short for Virtual Private Network, a VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server in your preferred location. The encryption means that no one, not your ISP nor any other snoopers, can read the contents of your traffic, while the location spoofing allows you to access geographically restricted sites and services.

Not all VPN services can bypass the WhatsApp restrictions in Turkey, but some can, and we’ve listed the best ones for you here. We’ll go into more detail about each of them below, but in case you’re short on time, we’ll start with a quick summary.

Best WhatsApp VPN for Turkey

1. NordVPN Our first choice VPN for use with WhatsApp in Turkey. Top-notch security features and exceptional unblocking ability. Also includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: This low-cost provider helps you easily access blocked apps and protect all of your devices simultaneously. Boasts fast, reliable connections and servers in 100+ countries.
3. ExpressVPN: An extremely fast, reliable, and secure VPN with servers in 100+ countries, including Turkey. Knowledgeable customer service is on hand 24/7.
4. CyberGhost: Quick, easy to use, and fantastic for anyone looking to access WhatsApp in Turkey. Offers free 24/7 support over live chat.
5. PrivateVPN: A small network of servers doesn’t hold this provider back from offering fast speeds and great unblocking abilities. Allows 10 simultaneous devices.
6. Private Internet Access: A no-logs VPN that can bypass all but the strictest online censorship. Allows you to use WhatsApp, Facebook, and more abroad.
7. ProtonVPN: A highly advanced VPN that offers split tunneling and port forwarding. Servers in 91+ countries. Fast speeds for making WhatsApp calls.

How we selected the top WhatsApp VPNs

There’s a huge selection of VPNs to choose from, but not all work in Turkey to unblock WhatsApp. Even those that do differ on factors such as speed and security. To take the guesswork out of it for you, we chose our best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey based on the following criteria:

• Works reliably in Turkey and can consistently access WhatsApp
• Operates a global network of servers in locations where WhatsApp has never been restricted
• Boasts fast enough speeds for uninterrupted VoIP calls and streaming
• Doesn’t keep user logs
• Utilizes strong security and encryption
• Offers excellent customer support

This is just an overview, you can read more about how we test our VPNs in the methodology section below. But for now, let’s dive into the VPNs that made the grade.

The best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey: at a glance

We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for WhatsApp.

Best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey

At Comparitech, we strive to bring you the best and most accurate VPN advice possible. In order to do that, we personally use every provider and put them through rigorous real-world testing. The following reviews are based on those first-hand experiences.

Here’s our list of the best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey:

1. NordVPN

Nov 2024 unblocks WhatsappTested Nov 2024

NordVPN is the best option for unblocking WhatsApp in Turkey. It has an expansive network, with over 6,000 servers in around 100+ countries, including Turkey. One of its main selling points is its ability to bypass censorship and geo-restriction measures. It works across the globe, including in Turkey, China, and other restrictive countries that impose VPN blocks, so you can access WhatsApp, Skype, and other communication apps from anywhere. It also helps you securely access multiple Netflix libraries, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

Another attractive aspect of this VPN is its suite of security features. Aside from effectively uncrackable encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch (in all apps except Android), you get automatic wifi protection, a dark web monitor, and the ability to remotely connect to other devices (such as a PC back home). Best of all, NordVPN has an independently audited no-logs policy. Live chat-based support is always available to help.

NordVPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections. Apps are available for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV, while you can also find extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browsers. You can even manually set up a VPN connection on select routers.

BEST VPN FOR WHATSAPP IN TURKEY:NordVPN is our first choice for users looking to chat securely while in Turkey. It keeps no logs and protects your internet traffic with lots of security features. Plans include a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

unblocks WhatsappTested Nov 2024

Surfshark is the best budget option for using WhatsApp in Turkey. This provider has recently expanded its network and now offers access to more than 3,200 servers in 100 countries. Not only that, it’s one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested and includes a NoBorders mode that can help users access WhatsApp and other blocked apps while in Turkey. There’s also no limit on the number of devices you can connect.

Security features include 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch in all apps, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. Extras include split tunneling, malware protection, and a feature that changes your IP address at fixed intervals. Connecting to a MultiHop server ensures your data receives two or more layers of encryption. This VPN keeps no logs whatsoever and provides 24/7 support.

Surfshark apps can be found for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. Chrome and Firefox extensions are also available to download. Last but not least, Surfshark can even be manually installed on compatible routers.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is our top low-cost option. Great for browsing and video-calling anonymously in Turkey. Allows unlimited simultaneous connections. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review.

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3. ExpressVPN

unblocks WhatsappTested Nov 2024

ExpressVPN operates a network of over 3,000 servers in 100+ countries and has an excellent reputation for evading government censorship across the globe, including in Turkey. ExpressVPN will help you access all your favorite apps from within the country, including WhatsApp, Skype, and Twitter. It’s also great at unblocking streaming platforms such as Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. Speeds are blazing fast, making this an ideal choice for VoIP calling.

This provider uses 256-bit encryption in conjunction with perfect forward secrecy and protection against DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks. Additionally, a kill switch is built into the desktop apps. ExpressVPN doesn’t log any personally-identifiable info and added a threat manager that can stop your apps from sending data to known trackers. Support is available around the clock should you need any help.

Native apps are provided for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. You can also find apps for Amazon Fire TV and Android TV, while browser extensions are offered for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari. What’s more, this VPN has its own router firmware, making it easy to protect a whole network.

FAST AND RELIABLE:ExpressVPN is a great pick for WhatsApp in Turkey. This VPN is fast, secure, and versatile, plus it comes with excellent customer support. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

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4. CyberGhost

unblocks WhatsappTested Nov 2024

CyberGhost certainly has plenty to offer privacy-conscious travelers. First off, it boasts a huge network, with almost 10,000 servers in 100+ countries. Some of these are even designed for specific tasks like streaming, browsing anonymously, or torrenting. Additionally, this VPN has first-class speeds, averaging roughly 300 Mbps in our latest tests. A maximum of seven devices can be secured simultaneously.

Users can take advantage of 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks, plus automatic ad-blocking. You can also connect via a random port, which might help you evade particularly strict VPN-blocking systems. CyberGhost doesn’t log any data that could be traced back to you. Having problems? Just get in touch using the free 24/7 live chat service.

CyberGhost apps are available for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. While there isn’t an app for routers, you can manually configure a connection with compatible wifi routers.

IDEAL FOR BEGINNERS:CyberGhost is a novice-friendly service with truly impressive speed, security, and unblocking ability. Great for regaining access to services like WhatsApp while in Turkey. Has a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

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5. PrivateVPN

unblocks WhatsappTested Nov 2024

PrivateVPN has a much smaller network (200 servers in 60+ countries) than the other providers on this list, but it manages to keep up from a performance standpoint. This service works reliably, even in countries where VPN blocks are imposed, Turkey included. PrivateVPN will assist you in unblocking WhatsApp and other apps and can help you access streaming and gaming sites too. If it doesn’t work out of the box, you can use the “Stealth VPN” feature, which is designed to evade online censorship.

This service doesn’t disappoint on the online privacy and security front. It’s actually its own ISP and hosting provider, meaning there’s almost no chance of outside interference. Further, the apps include 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. If you’re having trouble accessing your usual services, just activate the Stealth mode. PrivateVPN keeps no logs whatsoever. Live chat support is available at most times of the day.

Secure up to six devices simultaneously via PrivateVPN apps for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. You can use PrivateVPN with Linux and select routers but this does require manual setup.

PRIVATE NETWORK:PrivateVPN is focused on user security and privacy, and delivering fast, reliable connections. Allows 10 connections at once. It offers users a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

6. Private Internet Access

unblocks whatsappTested Nov 2024

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a solid choice for bypassing country restrictions on WhatsApp in Turkey. Offering a seamless blend of security and accessibility, PIA provides an extensive server network with an impressive range of 10,000 to 35,000 servers across 90+ countries. This expansive coverage is crucial for users in Turkey, ensuring reliable and diverse connection options to bypass local restrictions on WhatsApp.

As well as accessing WhatsApp in Turkey, PIA’s robust server network and unlimited bandwidth pave the way for accessing popular streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime.

Security-wise, PIA doesn’t skimp. With 256-bit AES encryption and support for OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, users enjoy a secure connection that guards against potential breaches. The VPN also offers a no-logs policy and DNS leak protection, which ensures your real IP address remains hidden. This is especially important in Turkey, where digital surveillance can be a concern.

PIA caters to a broad user base across various platforms like Windows, macOS, and Linux. 

WIREGUARD READY:Private Internet Access allows unlimited device connections, includes a kill switch, and has servers in 84+ countries. It offers users a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Private Internet Access review.

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7. ProtonVPN

unblocks whatsappTested Nov 2024  

ProtonVPN is highly regarded as one of the top VPNs for unblocking services like WhatsApp, particularly for users in Turkey, where restrictions may apply. It operates from the privacy-conscious jurisdiction of Switzerland and is developed by the same team behind ProtonMail, enhancing its security and reliability credentials. The service maintains a strictly audited no-logging policy and provides feature-rich applications on all major platforms.

An important aspect of ProtonVPN’s offering is its inclusion of both split tunneling and multi-hop connections at no extra cost. These features, along with AES encryption, multiple protocol options, stealth VPN capabilities, a system-level kill switch, and obfuscation, ensure robust security and enhanced privacy for users needing to bypass censorship in Turkey.

ProtonVPN supports a broad range of devices with dedicated apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Fire TV, and Linux, facilitating easy access to blocked services across various operating systems. You can use those apps to prevent ISP and government snooping and to bypass VoIP blocks throughout Turkey.

With a global network extending to over 85 countries, ProtonVPN enables users to secure IP addresses from almost anywhere, making it highly effective in circumventing geo-restrictions. In performance tests, the VPN showcased high speeds, courtesy of the WireGuard protocol, and proved capable of efficiently unblocking major streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Disney Plus.

The primary drawback of ProtonVPN is its relatively high cost. Nonetheless, for those in search of a fast, secure, and versatile VPN to unblock apps like WhatsApp in restrictive environments, ProtonVPN is an excellent choice. It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to evaluate its capabilities risk-free.

SECURE AND PRIVATE:ProtonVPN is an advanced VPN dedicated to user privacy. Split tunneling and port forwarding make it a superb option for torrenting. Reliable no-logs policy, AES encryption, a kill switch, and obfuscation to use WhatsApp privately. Works to get an IP address in more than 85 countries. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our ProtonVPN review.

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How to access WhatsApp in Turkey

Even if you’ve never used a VPN before, getting set up is simple. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll be making WhatsApp calls from Turkey in no time.

Here’s how to access WhatsApp in Turkey with a VPN:

1. Choose a VPN provider and pay for your subscription. We recommend NordVPN.
2. Download and install the app making sure to get the right version for your devices.
3. Log in to the app and connect to a server in a country where WhatsApp is not restricted – such as the US.
4. Now launch WhatsApp, and you should be able to use the service as normal.
5. If you run into issues, consult your VPN knowledge base or customer support team for help with troubleshooting. It may be that you need to connect to a different server or change the VPN settings.

Methodology: Finding the best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey

When you’re traveling in a country with severe online restrictions like Turkey, it’s vital you have a VPN you can trust. Not only that, it has to be able to handle any day-to-day task without breaking a sweat. With this in mind, we created a short list of requirements that our top VPNs had to meet:

• Security and privacy: Turkey’s widespread online censorship and surveillance mean anonymity must be our top priority. That’s why the VPNs we recommend must include 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a no-logs policy at a bare minimum. Any other tools that help protect your online privacy (such as stealth modes or tracker-blockers) are greatly appreciated.
• Unblocking ability: First off, your VPN has to be able to beat the Turkish government’s restrictions. Further, we looked for VPN services that worked with geo-blocked platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, and Prime Video. After all, if you can access these abroad, you can likely access most other services too.
• Speed: Slow speeds lead to dropped calls, low-quality audio, and stuttering video. As such, we decided to only recommend services that performed well during our most recent VPN speed tests.
• Server choice: Your VPN must have servers in locations with no online censorship. However, we also looked for those with Turkish servers since these will allow locals to continue using Turkey-only platforms while traveling.
• User-friendliness: The simpler your VPN is to use, the more likely you are to actually rely on it. Ideally, there’d be no connection limit, task-specific servers, and streamlined apps, as well as free 24/7 live chat.
• Value for money: There are so many VPNs on the market, many of which fail to unblock WhatsApp in Turkey. Despite this, many of these VPNs are more expensive than those listed in this post. Besides, we’ve included VPN discount coupons so you can save even more. All of the best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkey also include a risk-free money-back guarantee of at least 30 days.

This is far from the only testing we do. To learn more, check out our full VPN testing methodology post.

Using WhatsApp in Turkey: FAQs

Related: ExpressVPN server seized in Turkey turns up nothing in assassination case, verifying “no logs” policy