Leaving Private Internet Access? Here's everything you need
Compare 7 EU alternatives side-by-side. Find the right fit based on migration difficulty, pricing, and privacy features.
Your data may be subject to US surveillance laws
Private Internet Access is headquartered in the US. Under the CLOUD Act and FISA Section 702, US authorities can access your data without your knowledge. Switch to an EU alternative to keep your data protected under GDPR.
All EU Alternatives at a Glance
| Alternative | Country | Pricing | Difficulty | Time Estimate | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 ProtonVPNRecommended Proton VPN is a Swiss-based VPN service built by the team behind Proton Mail โ the same CERN scientists who created the world's largest encrypted email service in 2014. With 12,000+ servers across 120+ countries, it offers both a genuinely free tier (no ads, no logs, unlimited bandwidth) and a paid plan with streaming optimization, ad/tracker blocking (NetShield), and advanced routing through privacy-friendly countries (Secure Core). All apps are open source and the no-logs policy is independently audited with public reports. Rated 4.6 on both the App Store and Google Play. | ๐จ๐ญSwitzerland | Free plan available | Easy | 30-60 minutes | |
 Mullvad Free the internet from mass surveillance and censorship. Fight for privacy with Mullvad VPN and Mullvad Browser. | ๐ธ๐ชSweden | Subscription | Easy | 30 minutes | |
NordVPN NordVPN is a VPN service from Nord Security, a Lithuanian cybersecurity company founded in 2012 in Vilnius. While registered in Panama for jurisdictional privacy, its development team is based in Lithuania. NordVPN operates 6,400+ servers across 111 countries, with features including Double VPN, obfuscated servers, and the Meshnet private networking feature. The company has completed multiple independent security audits and operates under a verified no-logs policy. | ๐ฑ๐นLithuania | Subscription | Easy | 15-30 minutes | |
IVPN IVPN is a robust VPN service designed to protect your online privacy and security. It offers multi-hop VPN connections, allowing users to route their internet traffic through multiple servers for enhanced anonymity. With support for both WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, IVPN ensures fast and secure connections tailored to your needs. Key features include a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your data is never stored or shared, and comprehensive leak protection for both IPv6 and DNS. The service also includes a kill switch functionality to prevent data exposure if the VPN connection drops. IVPN is ideal for privacy-conscious individuals, remote workers, and anyone seeking to safeguard their online activities. With its EU-based data hosting, IVPN complies with GDPR regulations, offering users the benefits of data sovereignty and enhanced privacy protections. The service supports P2P file sharing and offers an optional dedicated IP address for users requiring a consistent online presence. IVPN operates on a subscription-based pricing model, providing flexibility with monthly and annual plans. | ๐ฌ๐ฎGibraltar | Subscription | Easy | 15-30 minutes | |
 Surfshark Surfshark is a VPN service from a Lithuanian cybersecurity company founded in 2018, which merged with Nord Security in 2022. Its standout feature is unlimited simultaneous device connections on a single account โ most competitors cap at 5-10. Surfshark operates 3,200+ RAM-only servers across 100+ countries, with a verified no-logs policy. Additional features include CleanWeb (ad/malware blocker), MultiHop (double VPN), and Camouflage mode for stealth browsing. | ๐ฑ๐นLithuania | Subscription | Easy | 30-60 minutes | |
 AirVPN AirVPN, based in Italy, offers a robust VPN service designed to protect your online privacy and security. Utilizing OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, AirVPN ensures secure and reliable connections. The service is ideal for privacy-conscious users, tech enthusiasts, and anyone looking to safeguard their internet activities. Key features include dynamic IP address assignment, port forwarding, and a no-logs policy, ensuring that your online activities remain private. AirVPN also supports IPv6 and provides leak protection to maintain your anonymity. With custom DNS servers and a multi-hop VPN routing option, users can enhance their privacy further. The kill switch feature offers additional security by preventing data leaks if the VPN connection drops. AirVPN's servers are hosted in the EU, benefiting from stringent GDPR compliance and data sovereignty laws, providing peace of mind regarding data protection. AirVPN offers flexible pricing plans, catering to different user needs without compromising on service quality. | ๐ฎ๐นItaly | Subscription | Easy | 30 minutes | |
AlphaVPSRecommended AlphaVPS was founded in 2013 in Sofia, Bulgaria, operating as a brand of DA International Group Ltd. The company owns all its hardware and runs its own network across five locations: Sofia, Nuremberg, London, Los Angeles, and New York. Their Sofia office sits directly above the Telepoint-East datacenter, giving them hands-on control of their infrastructure. AMD EPYC-powered KVM VPS plans start at EUR 3.99/month. | ๐ง๐ฌBulgaria | Paid | Easy | 30 minutes |
Our Top Picks
Easiest Switch
Proton VPN is a Swiss-based VPN service built by the team behind Proton Mail โ the same CERN scientists who created the world's largest encrypted email service in 2014. With 12,000+ servers across 120+ countries, it offers both a genuinely free tier (no ads, no logs, unlimited bandwidth) and a paid plan with streaming optimization, ad/tracker blocking (NetShield), and advanced routing through privacy-friendly countries (Secure Core). All apps are open source and the no-logs policy is independently audited with public reports. Rated 4.6 on both the App Store and Google Play.
Estimated migration time: 30-60 minutes
- 12,000+ servers in 120+ countries for global access
- Secure Core routes via privacy-friendly countries
- Open source apps with independent audits
Best for Privacy
Free the internet from mass surveillance and censorship. Fight for privacy with Mullvad VPN and Mullvad Browser.
Certifications:
Detailed Comparison of Each Alternative
Proton VPN is a Swiss-based VPN service built by the team behind Proton Mail โ the same CERN scientists who created the world's largest encrypted email service in 2014. With 12,000+ servers across 120+ countries, it offers both a genuinely free tier (no ads, no logs, unlimited bandwidth) and a paid plan with streaming optimization, ad/tracker blocking (NetShield), and advanced routing through privacy-friendly countries (Secure Core). All apps are open source and the no-logs policy is independently audited with public reports. Rated 4.6 on both the App Store and Google Play.
Advantages
- 12,000+ servers in 120+ countries for global access
- Secure Core routes via privacy-friendly countries
- Open source apps with independent audits
- Free tier offers unlimited bandwidth, no ads
Trade-offs
- Migration may require reconfiguring devices
- Learning curve for Secure Core and Stealth protocol
- Potentially fewer US-based servers than PIA
Free the internet from mass surveillance and censorship. Fight for privacy with Mullvad VPN and Mullvad Browser.
Advantages
- Anonymous account creation with no email needed
- GDPR compliance ensures strict data protection
- Accepts cash payments for full anonymity
- Open source for transparency and trust
Trade-offs
- Potential learning curve with Mullvad Browser
- Migration may require manual configuration
- Fewer server locations compared to some VPNs
NordVPN is a VPN service from Nord Security, a Lithuanian cybersecurity company founded in 2012 in Vilnius. While registered in Panama for jurisdictional privacy, its development team is based in Lithuania. NordVPN operates 6,400+ servers across 111 countries, with features including Double VPN, obfuscated servers, and the Meshnet private networking feature. The company has completed multiple independent security audits and operates under a verified no-logs policy.
Advantages
- Double VPN adds an extra layer of encryption.
- Obfuscated servers help bypass strict censorship.
- CyberSec blocks ads and malware effectively.
- SOC 2 Type II ensures strong data protection.
Trade-offs
- Migration may require reconfiguration of devices.
- Learning curve for new features like split tunneling.
IVPN is a robust VPN service designed to protect your online privacy and security. It offers multi-hop VPN connections, allowing users to route their internet traffic through multiple servers for enhanced anonymity. With support for both WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, IVPN ensures fast and secure connections tailored to your needs. Key features include a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your data is never stored or shared, and comprehensive leak protection for both IPv6 and DNS. The service also includes a kill switch functionality to prevent data exposure if the VPN connection drops. IVPN is ideal for privacy-conscious individuals, remote workers, and anyone seeking to safeguard their online activities. With its EU-based data hosting, IVPN complies with GDPR regulations, offering users the benefits of data sovereignty and enhanced privacy protections. The service supports P2P file sharing and offers an optional dedicated IP address for users requiring a consistent online presence. IVPN operates on a subscription-based pricing model, providing flexibility with monthly and annual plans.
Advantages
- Multi-hop connections enhance security layers.
- GDPR compliance ensures strict data protection.
- Open source code allows for transparency checks.
- ISO 27001 certification confirms security standards.
Trade-offs
- Migration may require reconfiguration of devices.
- Learning curve for multi-hop feature setup.
- Dedicated IP option may incur extra costs.
Surfshark is a VPN service from a Lithuanian cybersecurity company founded in 2018, which merged with Nord Security in 2022. Its standout feature is unlimited simultaneous device connections on a single account โ most competitors cap at 5-10. Surfshark operates 3,200+ RAM-only servers across 100+ countries, with a verified no-logs policy. Additional features include CleanWeb (ad/malware blocker), MultiHop (double VPN), and Camouflage mode for stealth browsing.
Advantages
- Unlimited devices with Surfshark vs. limited with PIA
- Surfshark offers 4500+ servers in 100+ countries
- Surfshark's RAM-only servers enhance data security
- Camouflage mode hides VPN use from ISPs
Trade-offs
- Learning curve for Surfshark's MultiHop feature
- No open-source transparency with Surfshark
- Migration may disrupt current VPN settings
AirVPN, based in Italy, offers a robust VPN service designed to protect your online privacy and security. Utilizing OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, AirVPN ensures secure and reliable connections. The service is ideal for privacy-conscious users, tech enthusiasts, and anyone looking to safeguard their internet activities. Key features include dynamic IP address assignment, port forwarding, and a no-logs policy, ensuring that your online activities remain private. AirVPN also supports IPv6 and provides leak protection to maintain your anonymity. With custom DNS servers and a multi-hop VPN routing option, users can enhance their privacy further. The kill switch feature offers additional security by preventing data leaks if the VPN connection drops. AirVPN's servers are hosted in the EU, benefiting from stringent GDPR compliance and data sovereignty laws, providing peace of mind regarding data protection. AirVPN offers flexible pricing plans, catering to different user needs without compromising on service quality.
Advantages
- AirVPN supports both OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols.
- AirVPN offers multi-hop VPN routing for added security.
- AirVPN is fully GDPR compliant, ensuring data protection.
- AirVPN provides custom DNS servers for enhanced privacy.
Trade-offs
- Switching may require learning new interface features.
- AirVPN's dynamic IP may not suit static IP needs.
- Migration may cause temporary service disruption.
AlphaVPS was founded in 2013 in Sofia, Bulgaria, operating as a brand of DA International Group Ltd. The company owns all its hardware and runs its own network across five locations: Sofia, Nuremberg, London, Los Angeles, and New York. Their Sofia office sits directly above the Telepoint-East datacenter, giving them hands-on control of their infrastructure. AMD EPYC-powered KVM VPS plans start at EUR 3.99/month.
Advantages
- Dedicated IPs reduce CAPTCHAs and bans.
- GDPR compliance ensures EU data protection.
- 24/7 support helps resolve issues anytime.
- DDoS protection enhances online security.
Trade-offs
- Migration can be time-consuming.
- Learning new interface may take time.
- Fewer global server locations than PIA.
Before You Switch
Export your data from Private Internet Access before you start the migration. This ensures you have a backup and makes the transition smoother.
How to Export
No export needed - cancel subscription
Export Format
N/A
Time Required
N/A
Import Notes
Install new VPN app and login
Settings Path
privateinternetaccess.com โ Account
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best EU alternatives to Private Internet Access?
There are 7 European alternatives to Private Internet Access. ProtonVPN, Mullvad, NordVPN are among the top-rated options. All are GDPR-compliant and store your data in European data centers.
How long does it take to switch from Private Internet Access?
Migration time varies by alternative. The easiest switch is to ProtonVPN, which takes approximately 30-60 minutes. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative.
Can I export my data from Private Internet Access?
Yes. No export needed - cancel subscription The exported data comes in N/A format. Install new VPN app and login
Is switching from Private Internet Access to an EU alternative safe?
Yes, switching is safe when done correctly. We recommend: 1) Export your data from Private Internet Access first, 2) Set up the new EU service, 3) Import your data, 4) Run both services in parallel for a transition period, 5) Update any linked accounts or integrations, and 6) Cancel your Private Internet Access subscription only after verifying everything works.
Why should I switch from Private Internet Access to an EU alternative?
EU alternatives provide stronger privacy protection under GDPR, keep your data in European data centers, and are not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act or FISA Section 702. By switching, you gain true data sovereignty and support European tech innovation.