A couple on the couch looking at a tv with HBO Max on it and a globe next to it
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Brief Overview: How to Watch HBO Max From Anywhere

Max and HBO Max aren’t available worldwide. While there are plans to expand Max’s availability by 2024, you don’t have to wait to get access. You can stream (HBO) Max from anywhere with a VPN.

Follow the steps below to watch Max no matter where you are in the world:

  1. Get a good VPN. We recommend NordVPN. We’ve tested this VPN’s ability to unblock HBO Max and Max, and it worked very effectively at providing us access to the streaming platform.
  2. Connect to a server in a country where HBO Max is available.
  3. Go to HBO Max and sign up.
  4. Start watching any movie or TV show in (HBO) Max’s library.

Continue reading for more details about how to get HBO Max from anywhere.

HBO Max Logo

On-demand streaming service HBO Max is currently only available in about 60 territories across the U.S., Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean. However, you can watch HBO Max outside these regions using a VPN (virtual private network).

Using a VPN is also a great way to maintain access to your favorite shows while traveling to another country. Alternatively, you can use a virtual private network to access an HBO Max catalog from another country or to watch Max while residing outside of the U.S.

Not all VPNs are compatible with HBO Max. We’ve tested different VPNs, and NordVPN is our favorite HBO and Max VPN. It consistently unblocked the streaming platform during our tests.

Check your user agreement:

While VPNs are legal, many streaming platforms have policies against the use of VPNs. HBO Max and updated streaming service Max could restrict or ban your account for using a VPN to access its content, but that’s quite rare.

Important Update: HBO Max Is Now Max in the U.S.

USA circle flag

HBO Max is going through a big transformation in the U.S., and it is now called Max. The main change that this entails is a fusion of what was previously HBO Max with Warner Bros’ Discovery’s content.

The above means that Max users will have access to all HBO classics, such as The Game of Thrones and The Last of Us, but also to reality shows by HGTV, culinary shows from the Food Network, TLC shows, and more.

As of now, Max is only available in the U.S. However, the service will roll out in Latin America this fall (2023) and in Europe and Asia-Pacific in 2024.

This timeline creates a gap between the U.S. and the rest of the world: not only is Max unavailable outside of the U.S., but you also can’t use Max if you’re a Max user traveling outside the U.S.

Fortunately, you can easily overcome this inconvenience by using a VPN for Max. This will allow you to access your Max account outside of the U.S., but only if you have created your account with a U.S.-based payment method.

Unblock Max with a VPN: Step-by-step guide

Below we provide you with a simple guide on how to get Max with a VPN. These are the steps you need to follow:

  1. Get a subscription with a good Max VPN. We suggest our number one streaming VPN: NordVPN.
  2. Download the VPN app on your streaming device.
  3. Open the VPN app and log in.
  4. Connect to a server in the U.S. for the Max U.S. library.
  5. Go to Max and enjoy your favorite shows!

    Streaming platform Max, desktop website homepage, July 2023

Login Error:

When we tried to access Max U.S. from our office outside of the U.S., using our normal HBO Max account and NordVPN, we got an error when trying to log in. We didn’t get this error when logging on with a Max account created by one of our team members in the U.S. This confirms our suspicion that this method to access Max U.S. only works if you registered your Max account in the U.S.

Are you trying to get the regular HBO Max unblocked rather than the new Max? As of now, that’s still possible in most countries. Find out below how to access HBO Max from all over the world with an excellent HBO Max VPN like NordVPN and watch The Last of Us and other popular shows and movies.

How to Watch HBO Max From Anywhere: Step by Step

Here’s how to get HBO Max if it’s not available in your current location:

  1. Get a VPN subscription. NordVPN is our favorite VPN for HBO Max. We’ve used it to access HBO Max from The Netherlands, Thailand, and other countries without issues.

    Screenshot of NordVPN website homepage, with added logo in the corner, May 2023
  2. Install the VPN on your device. You can also get it on Google’s Play Store and Apple’s App Store.

    Screenshot of NordVPN, device availability
  3. Open the app and log in using your credentials.

    Login page of NordVPN
  4. Connect to a server in any country where HBO Max is available.

    Screenshot of NordVPN app, US map with servers
  5. Open the HBO Max website and sign up. If you already have an account, ensure you’re connected to a server in the same country your HBO Max account is registered.

    Screenshot of HBO Max homepage with added logo in the corner
  6. Choose from an array of exciting TV shows and movies.

When using the method above to get a (U.S.) Max subscription, you might, apart from a VPN server in the U.S., also need a U.S.-issued payment method. Unfortunately, this particular type of streaming inconvenience is getting increasingly common.

How to Sign Up for an HBO Max Subscription From Anywhere

If you are living outside of the U.S. or you are traveling, here’s how to get an HBO Max subscription:

  1. Download NordVPN for HBO Max.
  2. Connect to a server in a country where HBO Max is available.
  3. Open a browser and go to the HBO Max website.
  4. Click “Sign Up Now.”

    Screenshot of HBO Max homepage
  5. Select your plan (there are three subscription tiers) and click “Continue.” You can opt for a monthly or annual subscription.

    Screenshot of HBO Max, pricing plans, USA
  6. Enter your name, email address, and password.

    Screenshot of HBO Max, sign up page
  7. You may be asked to complete a puzzle to verify that you’re not a robot.

    Screenshot of HBO Max, verification
  8. Select a payment method and complete your payment.

    Screenshot of HBO Max, payment method
  9. You will receive a confirmation email.
  10. Log in on HBO Max using your credentials. You can install the HBO Max app on your phone, tablet, computer, or Smart TV.

While the HBO Max U.S. library has more content than any other HBO Max library, and you can watch Succession and other popular shows, it’s also more expensive than the HBO Max price for other countries — $9.99 compared to €7.99 (about $8.71) in some European countries. You’ll also need an American credit card to set up payment.

Get a prepaid credit card

A U.S.-issued prepaid card works like a regular credit card, but you must first add funds to it. Here’s how to get a prepaid card and sign up for HBO Max without a U.S. payment method or address:

  1. Connect to a NordVPN server in the U.S.
  2. Visit a prepaid card site. We recommend StatesCard. It’s easy to use and reliable.
  3. Click “Sign Up.”

    Screenshot of StatesCard website homepage
  4. Enter your email address and a password to create an account.

    Screenshot of StatesCard, account creation
  5. Enter your details when prompted and click “Next.”

    Screenshot of StatesCard, account details
  6. Add funds to your account using your regular card or PayPal. You can see the charges that apply.

    Screenshot of StatesCard, add funds
  7. You can use your digital prepaid card instantly to sign up for HBO Max.

The Best VPN for Max and HBO Max: NordVPN

Best VPN icon

Not all VPNs work with HBO Max. When you use some VPNs, you’ll see an error message that reads “VPN detected” or “Sorry, HBO Max isn’t available in your region.”

We’ve tested dozens of VPNs for HBO Max, and we’ve found NordVPN to be the best option to watch Max or HBO Max from anywhere.

Screenshot of NordVPN website homepage, with added logo in the corner, May 2023

NordVPN is our top HBO Max VPN, as it can also be used to unblock other streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime, from different locations.

We’ve never faced any issues with bypassing geographical restrictions using NordVPN, thanks to its optimized servers, SmartPlay feature, and dedicated IPs, which make it look like you’re always accessing the service from the same location. This prevents streaming services from detecting that you’re using a VPN.

It’s easy to find a fast server in NordVPN’s vast network of servers. With almost 2,000 servers in the U.S., if you encounter a problem with one server, there are plenty more to choose from.

HBO Max worked great with each NordVPN server we tested. Its fast speeds are ideal for streaming high-quality content without lag or interruptions.

Moreover, NordVPN is the best VPN for HBO Max as it is also quite affordable. Plus, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try the service risk-free. Read our NordVPN review to learn why this is the best VPN right now.

Can I Get a Free HBO Max Trial?

It is possible to get a free Max trial. If you get Max through Hulu or Amazon, you can get a 30-day and seven-day free trial respectively. You’ll have to give your chosen provider your payment information, but you’ll only be charged after the periods mentioned above.

What Can I Watch on (HBO) Max?

Movie clap and red box of popcorns icon

Below you’ll find some of the most popular shows you can find on Max and HBO Max.

  • A Black Lady Sketch Show
  • Friends
  • Gossip Girl
  • Lovecraft Country
  • Sex and the City
  • Somebody Somewhere
  • Succession
  • The Righteous Gemstones
  • The Sex Lives of College Girls
  • Tokyo Vice
  • White House Plumbers

Conclusion: Access HBO Max From Anywhere With NordVPN

NordVPN Logo Business

HBO Max has some great content, like the comedy-drama series Somebody Somewhere, the famous sitcom Sex and the City (with superstar Sarah Jessica Parker), and the dark comedy success Barry.

If you’re wondering how to watch HBO Max from anywhere in the world, then the solution is easy. With a VPN for HBO Max, you can catch all the latest releases and re-watch the classics on the streaming platform. Plus, you’ll be able to access great extra content from the Discovery Network if you use Max.

NordVPN allows you to access Max’s TV shows and movies worldwide and provides you with fast streaming speeds, so you can enjoy your favorite content with no interruptions. It’s our go-to VPN for this streaming platform.

If you want to find out how to unblock other popular streaming platforms, check out the articles below:

How to Watch HBO Max From Anywhere: Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a question about how to get HBO Max from your country? Check the FAQ section below to see if we’ve answered your question. If we haven’t, feel free to leave us a comment and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Is HBO Max available in Europe?

Yes, HBO Max has recently become available in some parts of Europe, including the Netherlands, and parts of Eastern Europe. However, you can watch HBO Max from anywhere using a VPN — even in countries where it’s not currently available.

How can I watch HBO Max outside of the U.S. and other supported countries?

You can unblock access to HBO Max using a VPN like NordVPN. Here’s how to go about it.

  1. Sign up to NordVPN.
  2. Connect to a server in a country where HBO Max is available.
  3. Sign up for an HBO Max account.
  4. Log in to your account and start streaming!
Does HBO Max detect VPNs?

Yes, HBO Max can detect some VPNs. However, top VPNs, like NordVPN that we have tested extensively are usually harder to detect. NordVPN also offers obfuscated servers to disguise your VPN traffic. We’ve used this VPN to access HBO Max from different parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa without any issues.

Can you use free VPNs to access HBO Max?

While there are some good free VPNs, they are not effective at unblocking content on streaming sites. You’re likely to be blocked if you try to access HBO Max with a free VPN. Instead, we recommend getting a premium VPN like NordVPN for uninterrupted streaming.

Can I subscribe to HBO Max outside the U.S.?

HBO Max is currently available in selected regions including the U.S., parts of Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean.  The U.S. version of HBO Max has the most content and you can subscribe by using a VPN to get an American IP address.

However, you’ll also need a U.S. payment method to subscribe. You can get around this by using a prepaid credit card like StatesCard.

How can I watch HBO Max for free?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to watch HBO Max for free. There used to be a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. However, the TV provider decided to end the HBO Max free trial. Now, you must subscribe to access content on Max.

How do I know if HBO Max is available in my country?

The easiest way to check if HBO Max is available in your country is to try to open the streaming platform. If it’s available, you should have access to the sign up page.

Otherwise, you’ll get a message that reads, “Sorry, HBO Max isn’t available in your region yet.” Warner Bros have said they’re working on bringing HBO Max to other territories by 2024.

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