How to pay for non-local streaming services

To pay for a streaming service that are not available locally you often need a matching payment method (card, PayPal account, etc) from the same country. For most streaming services, there's a few easy workarounds.

For this example, let's go with a US streaming service such as Hulu, HBO Max, or Peacock.

Since you may not always have access to a matching payment method, we have two suggestions:

  1. You can use the Apple ID method. This involves creating a US Apple ID and then purchasing US Apple gift cards to the US Apple ID. Below we outline the steps required.
  2. For US streaming services only - You can use a 3rd party service like USUnlocked. They will provide a US payment method and a US billing address so you can pay directly with a US card.

You can find instructions on the Apple ID method (Option 1) below:

In the example we show steps for a US-based streaming service, but this applies for services from any country.

For example, for a UK streaming service, you create or switch to a UK Apple account and load it with UK Apple gift cards. This works for any service that let's you purchase a subscription directly on an Apple device using in-app checkout.

  1. First, create a US Apple ID. To learn how to easily create a one, take a look at our short guide here.
  2. Once you have the Apple ID, you will need to purchase US Apple Gift Cards. There are various marketplaces where you can buy them such as Eneba, G2A, or MyGiftCardSupply. We suggest using a price comparison platform like gg.deals to find the best deal. Just pick your desired region in the filters.
  3. Log in to your new US Apple ID on any Apple device, in iTunes, or in a web browser, then redeem the voucher. The balance will then be added to your Apple ID.
  4. On an iOS or Apple TV device, log in to your new US Apple ID. Make sure your device is configured to use StreamLocator, then launch the US streaming app you want to subscribe to. Start subscription checkout within the streaming app and select your Apple ID funds balance as the payment method.
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