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Partly blocked Updated 14 Oct 2026 About 5 minutes

How to unblock DeepSeek in Italy

Italy has partly blocked DeepSeek since Jan 2025. A VPN sends your connection through another country so the block no longer applies. This guide uses Proton VPN.

Short answer

Use Proton VPN, connect to Netherlands, then open DeepSeek.

We picked Proton VPN because it's the best fit for DeepSeek here: swiss-based with open-source apps and a free tier, plus a Stealth protocol for restrictive networks.

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Why DeepSeek doesn't work in Italy

DeepSeek has been partly blocked in Italy since Jan 2025. Removed from Italian app stores after a privacy order.

Major apps work; DeepSeek was pulled from Italian app stores in 2025 and the Piracy Shield system blocks illegal sports streams within minutes.

Is a VPN legal in Italy? Legal. VPNs are legal. Italian rules now ask VPN and DNS providers to help block pirated sports streams.

Step by step with Proton VPN

  1. Install and sign in

    Install Proton VPN on the phone or computer where you use DeepSeek, then sign in.

  2. Check the protocol

    Leave the protocol on Smart (the default) for the best speed.

  3. Connect to a nearby server

    Connect to a server in Netherlands, Germany or Switzerland. DeepSeek works normally in these countries, and nearby servers are faster.

  4. Open DeepSeek

    It should load normally once the VPN is connected. If not, clear your browser cache or try a private window.

  5. Leave the VPN on

    Keep Proton VPN connected while you use DeepSeek. If you disconnect, the block applies again.

Tip: Log in only after the VPN is connected.

Try Proton VPN

If it still doesn't work

  • Try another server in the same country.
  • Turn off your browser's or phone's "private DNS" setting if it overrides the VPN.
  • Force-close DeepSeek and open it again after the VPN connects.

Or try another VPN

ExpressVPN Connects

Leave the protocol on Automatic. ExpressVPN picks the fastest option for you.

Try ExpressVPN

NordVPN Connects

Leave the protocol on NordLynx (the default). You don't need obfuscation for this block.

Try NordVPN

What people in Italy are reporting

Not enough reports yet for Proton VPN in Italy this fortnight.

Vote on what's working

Questions people ask

Does DeepSeek work in Italy without a VPN?

Partly. Some features of DeepSeek are blocked in Italy: Removed from Italian app stores after a privacy order.

Is it legal to use a VPN for DeepSeek in Italy?

Legal. VPNs are legal. Italian rules now ask VPN and DNS providers to help block pirated sports streams. This is general information, not legal advice.

Can I use a free VPN to unblock DeepSeek in Italy?

A trustworthy free VPN can work for a simple block like this one. Proton VPN's free plan is the safest free option. Avoid unknown free VPN apps, which often sell browsing data.

Why does DeepSeek still not work with the VPN on?

Try another server in the same country. Turn off your browser's or phone's "private DNS" setting if it overrides the VPN. Force-close DeepSeek and open it again after the VPN connects.

We earn a commission if you buy a VPN through our links. It never changes what we report as blocked. How we pick