If you’re trying to watch MTV in Canada, you’ve likely run into frustrating geo-restrictions. MTV, the iconic American entertainment channel known for hit shows like Catfish, The Challenge, and Teen Mom, is only available to viewers within the United States through platforms like MTV.com or the MTV app. Unfortunately, due to licensing agreements, Canadian users are blocked from accessing most of MTV’s full content library.
That’s where a VPN comes in. A reliable VPN masks your Canadian IP address and replaces it with a US one, tricking MTV’s servers into thinking you’re located in the US. This simple workaround lets you watch MTV in Canada without restrictions, securely and in high quality.
Quick steps to watch MTV in Canada with a VPN
- Get a premium VPN [Recommended: ExpressVPN]
- Download the VPN app and sign in
- Connect to a server in United States [Recommended: New York]
- Visit MTV and log in to your account
- Start streaming MTV from Canada
What is MTV?
MTV, short for Music Television, is a popular American cable channel that originally launched in 1981 with a focus on music videos and pop culture. Over the years, it has evolved into a go-to destination for reality shows, celebrity news, and youth-oriented entertainment. MTV is best known for creating iconic programs like Jersey Shore, The Real World, Teen Mom, and The Challenge. While it once centered around music, MTV now primarily airs reality TV, scripted series, and award shows, catering to a younger audience with bold, trendsetting content.
In which Countries is MTV available?
MTV is available in multiple countries around the world, with regional versions tailored to local audiences. Some of the key countries where MTV operates include the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada (with limited content), Australia, India, Germany, France, and several other European, Asian, and Latin American nations. However, the content library often differs significantly by region due to licensing agreements and broadcasting rights. For instance, full access to MTV’s US catalog is typically restricted to viewers within the United States, which is why many international fans use a VPN to access the original programming.
Can I watch MTV in Canada?
You can visit the MTV website in Canada, but you won’t be able to stream most of its content due to geo-restrictions. When you try to watch a full episode or live stream from outside the US, you’ll likely encounter an error message:
“This video is unavailable in your location.”
This happens because MTV’s streaming rights are limited to the United States, and your Canadian IP address reveals your location, blocking access to the content. To bypass this, you’ll need a VPN that can assign you a US IP address and let you stream MTV as if you were in the US.
How can I sign up to watch MTV in Canada?
If you’re trying to access MTV from Canada, you’ll run into a geo-restriction message that says the content isn’t available in your region. But with a VPN, you can easily bypass that and sign up for MTV like you’re in the US.
- Subscribe to a reliable VPN service (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark are great options).
- Download and install the VPN app on your preferred device.
- Launch the VPN and connect to a US server.
- Go to www.mtv.com in your browser.
- Click on any video or episode; you’ll be prompted to sign in with a US TV provider.
- If you don’t have a US cable subscription, sign up for a streaming service that includes MTV (like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Philo, or Sling TV).
- Visit the streaming provider’s website and complete the registration using a US ZIP code (you can use one like 10001 for New York).
- Enter your payment details (a US-based payment method or gift card might be required).
- Once signed up, go back to MTV’s site and use the credentials from your streaming service to log in.
- Enjoy MTV’s full library from Canada without restrictions.
What is the cost of watching MTV in Canada?
| Streaming Service | MTV Included? | Monthly Cost (USD) | Free Trial? | DVR Storage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philo | Yes | $25 | 7 days | Unlimited | Most affordable; includes MTV, MTV2, MTV Classic |
| Sling TV + Comedy Extra | Yes | $41 ($35 + $6 add-on) | 50% off first month | 50 hours (upgrade available) | Base plan required; Comedy Extra add-on needed for MTV |
| YouTube TV | Yes | $72.99 | 7 days | Unlimited | User-friendly, many channels, solid DVR |
| Hulu + Live TV | Yes | $81.99 | No | Unlimited (9-month limit) | Includes Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ bundle |
| FuboTV | Yes | $74.99–79.99 | 7 days | 1,000 hours | Great for sports + MTV; multiple base plan tiers |
| DirecTV Stream | Yes | $86.99–91.99 | 5 days | Unlimited | Premium pricing; includes MTV, MTV Live, and more |
| Pluto TV | Music Only | Free | N/A | N/A | Offers free MTV music video channels, not full episodes or reality TV |
Best VPNs to watch MTV in Canada
As a VPN analyst, I’ve tested countless services to find the most reliable ways to unlock region-blocked content, and MTV is no exception. If you’re in Canada, you’ve probably noticed that MTV’s US content is off-limits due to licensing restrictions. Whether it’s Catfish, The Challenge, or classic MTV reality shows, that dreaded “this content is not available in your region” message can be frustrating.
That’s where a powerful VPN comes in. By masking your IP address and routing your connection through a US server, a good VPN lets you access MTV as if you were sitting stateside. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best VPNs I’ve personally tested that consistently bypass MTV’s geo-blocks securely, smoothly, and without buffering.
ExpressVPN- Our Recommended VPN
ExpressVPN is my go-to choice when I need fast, consistent access to MTV from outside the US, especially in Canada. What sets ExpressVPN apart is its vast network of US servers spread across major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas. These servers are highly optimized for streaming, which means you can load up MTV shows in HD without lag or buffering. Whether you’re trying to catch a live stream or binge episodes on demand, ExpressVPN rarely fails to deliver smooth, geo-unlocked access.
One of the reasons I recommend ExpressVPN for streaming MTV is its ease of use. The app is sleek, simple, and works flawlessly across all major platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and even Firestick. I’ve personally tested it on multiple devices and found the connection to be stable every single time. Plus, its MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) feature is a great backup for streaming MTV on devices that don’t support VPN apps natively, like smart TVs or gaming consoles.
From a privacy and performance standpoint, ExpressVPN is rock solid. It runs on TrustedServer technology, which means your data isn’t stored or logged, and it offers best-in-class encryption. While it’s on the pricier side, I consider it a premium investment for anyone serious about accessing US streaming content like MTV from Canada. And with a 30-day money-back guarantee, you’ve got nothing to lose.
- ExpressVPN offers a vast network with more than 3,000 servers across 105 countries.
- Enjoy seamless streaming of MTV using the Media Streamer feature.
- Choose from multiple subscription plans for the best savings: monthly at $12.95, yearly at $4.99 per month, or a 2-year plan.
- Connect up to 8 devices simultaneously, including smartphones, computers, tablets, and Fire TV Sticks.
Pros
- They value your privacy and explain everything they do clearly.
- You can trust their strong security to keep your information safe.
- Enjoy watching shows on MTV without any interruptions.
- They follow strict privacy rules so that you can feel even more confident.
Cons
- Even though ExpressVPN costs more than other options, it offers top-notch service.
- You can use it on 8 devices simultaneously, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
- Although the Apple TV app is good, we always strive to improve it.
NordVPN- The Biggest Network
NordVPN is another excellent option I rely on for watching MTV in Canada. It offers a massive fleet of over 1,900 US servers, making it incredibly easy to find a fast, reliable connection. In my testing, NordVPN consistently bypassed geo-restrictions on MTV’s website and worked seamlessly with US streaming services like Philo, Sling TV, and YouTube TV that include MTV in their packages.
What I appreciate about NordVPN is the balance it strikes between performance and security. It uses NordLynx, a next-gen protocol based on WireGuard, which delivers lightning-fast speeds without sacrificing encryption. That means I can stream MTV in full HD—even during peak hours—without worrying about lag or data leaks. And its SmartPlay feature automatically reroutes your connection for optimal streaming performance, which is especially helpful for beginners who just want it to work.
Beyond streaming, NordVPN is a security powerhouse. It includes built-in malware protection, a kill switch, and strong no-logs policies verified through independent audits. I also like that one subscription covers up to six devices, so I can watch MTV on my laptop, phone, and even router all at once. It’s a fantastic mid-range option that doesn’t compromise on quality or features.
- NordVPN boasts over 5,300 servers in more than 59 countries, ensuring smooth streaming without buffering, no matter your location.
- You can stream MTV on various devices, including phones, laptops, tablets, and smart TVs, with NordVPN supporting up to 6 simultaneous connections for sharing with friends and family.
- It delivers fast speeds for uninterrupted streaming while maintaining strong security for your connection.
- NordVPN provides flexible pricing options, starting at $12.99 per month, with greater savings available on longer-term plans.
Pros
- Forget about those annoying pauses while you’re watching MTV, which was accessed with NordVPN! Now, you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies without any interruptions.
- Make the most of your MTV access with NordVPN time with easy-to-use features that make watching a breeze.
- You won’t have any technical troubles here. Thanks to our user-friendly interface, navigating through the VPN is super simple.
- Rest easy knowing that we prioritize your privacy and security.
- And for those who take security seriously, we offer extra options to keep your information safe and sound.
- Say farewell to those annoyingly choppy streams and welcome a smooth MTV, accessed with the NordVPN experience.
- Pick the payment method that suits you best, with plenty of convenient options available.
Cons
- The pricing plans are confusing.
- Limited to 6 simultaneous connections.
SurfShark- An Affordable VPN
If you’re on a budget but still want to stream MTV from Canada without limits, Surfshark is the VPN I recommend. It’s impressively affordable yet surprisingly powerful, offering over 600 US servers that consistently unblocked MTV in my tests. Whether I was streaming via the MTV website or through services like Hulu + Live TV and Sling, Surfshark handled the geo-bypass like a pro.
What makes Surfshark a standout is its unlimited simultaneous connections. That means you and your entire household can stream different MTV shows on different devices—all on one subscription. I’ve tested it on everything from smartphones to smart TVs, and the experience has been smooth across the board. The CleanWeb feature also helps block ads and trackers, which is a bonus when browsing or using MTV’s web platform.
Despite its lower price tag, Surfshark doesn’t cut corners on security. It includes AES-256 encryption, a no-logs policy, and even MultiHop for added privacy. The speeds are consistently good thanks to the WireGuard protocol, and the interface is beginner-friendly. If you’re new to VPNs or want the best value for streaming MTV in Canada, Surfshark is an excellent choice that punches well above its weight.
- Surfshark offers MTV access through a vast network of over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, providing smooth, buffer-free streaming for your binge-watching sessions.
- You can connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously, allowing everyone in the family to watch their favorite shows on phones, laptops, tablets, or Fire Sticks, making movie nights easier.
- With a strict no-logs policy, Surfshark ensures your privacy, letting you stream without worrying about data tracking.
- Surfshark’s flexible subscription plans start at $15.54 per month, with significant discounts available for annual and 2-year plans to help you save even more.
Pros
- Select a bigger plan and get the cheapest way to watch your favorite shows and movies.
- Stop arguing over who gets to watch! This service is great for families or people who like to watch wherever they are. It can be used on multiple devices simultaneously.
- This service focuses on keeping your information safe. You can feel confident watching MTV, knowing your data is always secure.
- This service offers many extra features, making your MTV experience more enjoyable than regular streaming.
Cons
- Some people might find it confusing to understand how much they need to pay and what their options are when choosing a subscription.
- The different subscription plans might be too complicated for people who prefer simple choices.
- There’s space for making the Linux interface better.
What devices can I use to watch MTV?
You can watch MTV on the following streaming devices:
- iOS devices
- Android devices
- Firestick
- Roku
- Apple TV
- Smart TV
How to watch MTV in Canada on Smart TV?
- Connect your Smart TV to the internet.
- Subscribe to a reliable VPN service (e.g., ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark).
- Download and install the VPN on your Smart TV (via native app or router setup).
- Launch the VPN app and connect to a U.S. server.
- Open the MTV app (download from app store if needed).
- Sign in using a supported U.S. TV provider or streaming service (like Philo, Hulu + Live TV, or YouTube TV).
- Start streaming MTV content on your Smart TV in Canada.
How to watch MTV in Canada on Android Devices?
- Subscribe to a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark.
- Download and install the VPN app from the Google Play Store on your Android device.
- Open the VPN app and sign in with your credentials.
- Connect to a US server from the list of available locations.
- Open the Google Play Store and clear cache if needed to refresh the region.
- Download the MTV app from the Play Store or visit mtv.com via a browser.
- Launch the MTV app or site and sign in with a supported US TV provider.
- Start streaming MTV content on your Android device in Canada.
How to watch MTV in Canada on Firestick?
- Install a premium VPN (e.g., ExpressVPN, Surfshark, NordVPN) on your Firestick.
- Launch the VPN and connect to a US server (New York recommended).
- Change your Amazon account region to the US in the Firestick settings.
- Restart your Firestick and open the Amazon Appstore (US version).
- Search for and download the MTV app.
- Open MTV, sign in with a US TV provider, or use a free trial on Paramount+.
- Stream MTV content on your Firestick while connected to the VPN.
How can I remove MTV streaming errors?
- Check your internet connection – Restart your Wi-Fi router or switch to a stable network.
- Clear app cache/data – Go to device settings > Apps > MTV > Clear cache and data.
- Update the MTV app – Ensure you’re using the latest version from your device’s app store.
- Restart your device – A simple reboot often clears temporary glitches.
- Disable ad blockers – These can interfere with video playback.
- Check VPN settings – If using a VPN, switch servers or choose a different protocol (like OpenVPN UDP/TCP).
- Log out and back in – Reauthenticate your account to refresh access.
- Reinstall the app – Uninstall and reinstall MTV to fix corrupted files.
- Check your subscription/provider login – Make sure your login is active and linked to a valid US TV provider.
- Try a different device/browser – If errors persist, test on another device or browser.
What to watch on MTV
Top Reality Shows on MTV
- The Challenge
- Jersey Shore: Family Vacation
- Teen Mom OG
- Siesta Key
- Ex on the Beach
- Are You the One?
- Catfish: The TV Show
- Ridiculousness
- Floribama Shore
- Double Shot at Love
Top Live Shows on MTV
- MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs)
- MTV Movie & TV Awards
- MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs)
- MTV Unplugged
- MTV Push Live
- TRL (Total Request Live)
- MTV Live From…
- MTV Spring Break
- MTV Cribs Live
- Club MTV Live
FAQs
Can I watch MTV in Canada?
MTV is geo-restricted to the US, but you can access it in Canada using a VPN with US servers.
Can I watch MTV live without cable?
Yes, via US-based streaming platforms such as Sling TV, Philo, or Hulu Live when accessed with a VPN.
Why am I getting a location error on MTV?
This happens due to geo-blocks. A US VPN server resolves the issue.
Does MTV offer a free trial?
MTV itself does not, but streaming platforms like YouTube TV or Philo offer free trials that include MTV.
Can I use a free VPN to watch MTV in Canada?
Free VPNs are often blocked and have slow speeds; a premium VPN is recommended for a smooth experience.
Conclusion
Watching MTV in Canada might seem tricky due to geo-restrictions, but with the right VPN and setup, it’s completely doable. By using a trusted VPN to connect to a US server, you can unlock the full MTV experience on your devices. Just remember to sign in with a valid US TV provider or streaming service to enjoy live shows, reality series, and exclusive content without interruption. With these simple steps, MTV’s exciting lineup is right at your fingertips, no matter where you are.
