ℹ️ Comparison site only. VPN availability in restricted markets changes frequently. Always verify current status before relying on any VPN in a country with internet restrictions. We earn affiliate commissions when you subscribe via our links — clearly labelled AD. Full disclosure →
Updated April 2026

Tech tools that actually work when you're overseas

Not all VPNs work in Thailand. Not all eSIMs work in UAE. Not all "international" apps work when you actually live abroad. We test what works in the real world, not on a UK broadband connection.

Best VPN for expats → Best eSIM Remote work stack
VPN comparison

Best VPN for expats 2026

The most important thing a VPN does for expats isn't privacy — it's keeping your UK streaming, banking apps and work tools accessible from anywhere. Here's what actually works. Pricing sourced from provider websites April 2026 (nordvpn.com, expressvpn.com, surfshark.com). 2-year plan rates shown — pricing changes frequently. Always check current pricing on provider websites directly. *Introductory rates apply; renewal rates are higher.

Editor's choice
🛡️
NordVPN
Source: nordvpn.com/pricing
Best all-round VPN for expats
From
$2.99/mo*
Servers
9,300+
Devices
10 simultaneous
UK servers
✓ Yes
  • ✓Works reliably in Thailand
  • ✓Unlocks UK Netflix, BBC iPlayer, ITVX
  • ✓Obfuscated servers for restrictive markets
  • ✓No-logs policy, audited independently
Get NordVPN (AD)
⚡
ExpressVPN
Source: expressvpn.com/order
Best for speed and UAE specifically
From
$4.99/mo*
Servers
3,000+
Devices
8 simultaneous
UK servers
✓ Yes
  • ✓Generally works in UAE (VoIP restrictions apply)
  • ✓Fastest speeds in independent tests
  • ✓Lightway protocol — excellent on mobile
  • ✗Premium pricing
Get ExpressVPN (AD)
🦈
Surfshark
Source: surfshark.com/pricing
Best budget option — unlimited devices
From
$1.99/mo*
Servers
3,200+
Devices
Unlimited
UK servers
✓ Yes
  • ✓Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • ✓Cheapest long-term pricing
  • ✓Works in Thailand
  • ✗Less consistent in UAE than ExpressVPN
Get Surfshark (AD)

Does it work where you are?

VPN availability changes. This is based on testing in April 2026. Always verify before you travel. Note: using a VPN may be legally restricted in some countries — check local laws.

Country NordVPN ExpressVPN Surfshark Notes
🇹🇭 Thailand ✓ Works ✓ Works ✓ Works No restrictions. All major VPNs work reliably.
🇦🇪 UAE ~ Partial ✓ Works ~ Partial VoIP (WhatsApp calls, Skype) restricted. ExpressVPN most reliable. Legal grey area.
🇲🇾 Malaysia ✓ Works ✓ Works ✓ Works No restrictions. All work well.
🇮🇩 Indonesia ✓ Works ✓ Works ✓ Works Some social media blocked periodically. VPNs work.
🇵🇹 Portugal ✓ Works ✓ Works ✓ Works EU — no restrictions whatsoever.
🇮🇳 India ✓ Works ✓ Works ✓ Works VPN providers must store logs per Indian law. No-log claims may not hold.

* Tested April 2026. Status changes. Legal position on VPN use varies by country — always check local laws before use.

eSIM guides

Best eSIM for long-term travellers

An eSIM lets you add a local or regional data plan without swapping physical SIMs. Essential for long-term travellers moving between countries.

📱
Airalo

The most widely used eSIM marketplace. Coverage in 200+ countries. Good for short-term data top-ups. From ~£3 for regional plans.

Get Airalo (AD)
🌍
Holafly

Unlimited data plans in 170+ countries. Better for longer stays where data usage is high. More expensive per day but no throttling.

Get Holafly (AD)
⚡
Nomad

Strong Southeast Asia coverage. Good value regional Asia plans. Works well in Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam and Indonesia.

Get Nomad (AD)
⚠️ eSIM compatibility: eSIM requires a compatible, unlocked handset. Check your device supports eSIM and is not carrier-locked before purchasing. Most modern iPhones (XS and later) and many Android flagships are compatible. Your existing physical SIM can usually remain active alongside an eSIM.
Remote work

The remote work tool stack for expats

The tools that make working overseas reliable. Focused on what actually solves problems rather than a list of every app ever made.

🔐
1Password
Password manager — non-negotiable when working across multiple countries and devices. Stores banking credentials, VPN logins, work accounts securely.
~£2.99/mo
📞
Skype Number / Google Voice
Keep a UK or US number active without a UK SIM. Banks and HMRC still need a landline-style number for callbacks. Free incoming calls.
Free / ~£3/mo
☁️
Notion
Replaces physical files and notebooks. Tax records, visa documents, property records, work projects — all accessible from any device anywhere.
Free / £8/mo
🕐
Toggl
Time tracking for freelancers and consultants working across time zones. Billable hours, project breakdown, client invoicing support.
Free tier available
📶
Speedtest (Ookla)
Test connection before booking accommodation. Run it on arrival at every hotel or apartment before settling in. Prevents video call disasters.
Free
📬

The Expat Briefing

What changed this month, what it means for you. Visa rules, tax updates, provider changes, exchange rate moves. Monthly. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

No spam. Unsubscribe any time. We will never share your email with anyone.