This post gives a full list of which countries have banned TikTok in 2025. Learn why these countries restrict access to the TikTok app and how to use TikTok in those banned countries.
List of Countries That Banned TikTok
The following are the countries where TikTok is banned, though some countries have partially banned it, some have completely banned it, and others may have banned it in the past but have lifted the ban.
Aisa Countries
- India
- China (TikTok unavailable; Douyin used instead)
- Taiwan
- Indonesia
- Afghanistan
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Bangladesh
- Iran
- Jordan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Nepal
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- Vietnam
- Uzbekistan
Africa Countries
- Kenya
- Senegal
- Somalia
Europe Countries
- Russia
- France
- The Netherlands
- Albania
- Austria
- Belgium
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Ireland
- Latvia
- Malta
- Norway
- Poland
- Romania
North America Countries
- United States (Temporary ban on January 19, 2025, has been recovered the second day)
- Canada
Oceania Countries
- Australia
- New Zealand
- New Caledonia
Why Is TikTok Banned in Some Countries?
TikTok has been banned or restricted in a few countries for various reasons. The primary concern is related to national security, data privacy, content regulation, and cultural or political control.
National security concerns
TikTok is developed and owned by a Chinese company. Some countries may fear that the user data information on TikTok may be shared with the Chinese government. They may also fear that TikTok will influence public opinion.
Therefore, some countries completely banned TikTok for all users. Some countries partially banned TikTok like banning TikTok on all national government devices.
Data and privacy protection
Some countries may also worry that TikTok collects vast amounts of personal data from its users, including device information, location, browsing behavior, etc. They worry about how the user data is collected, stored, and shared.
Inappropriate content on TikTok
Some countries may also have concerns about the potential inappropriate content on TikTok. The fear that they may influence children and teenagers.
Social and cultural concerns
Some countries may also have concerns that the content on the TikTok app may promote values or behaviors that conflict with their local cultural values, especially related to youth.
How to Use TikTok in Banned Countries?
Using TikTok in countries where the app is banned can be challenging, but you can try some solutions to access it.
Solution 1. Try a VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A VPN allows you to mask your IP address and let you browse as if you are in a different country. By connecting to a server where TikTok is available, you can easily unblock TikTok and other restricted content.
Select a reliable VPN provider, e.g., LightningX VPN. LightningX VPN is an easy-to-use VPN for Android, iOS, PC, Mac, Linux, TV, etc. It offers 2000+ servers in 50+ countries. It uses AES-256, WireGuard, Shadowsocks, etc. to encrypt and protect your online data and privacy. It also follows a strict no-logs policy, so your data are safe. This VPN is fast, stable, secure, and user-friendly.
- Download and install LightningX VPN on your device (Android, iPhone/iPad, PC, Mac).
- Connect to a server in a country where TikTok is available (e.g., the US, UK, or other countries).
- Once connected, open TikTok and you can access and use it as usual.
Solution 2. Directly Download the TikTok Installation File from TikTok’s Official Website
- Visit TikTok’s official download website in your browser.
- Select your device version: iOS or Android.
- Use your mobile device to scan the QR code to download the latest official TikTok app to your device.
- Launch the TikTok installation file and allow installation from unknown sources in your device’s settings. Follow the guides to install the TikTok app.
Solution 3. Use a Different App Store (for Android Devices)
In some countries, TikTok may not be available in the official app stores like Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store. However, TikTok may be available in some third-party app stores. You can use a reliable third-party app store to find and download TikTok.
Solution 4. Use the Web Version of TikTok
If the TikTok app is blocked but the TikTok website isn’t, you may use the TikTok web version in a browser.
Solution 5. Change the Country of Your App Store
If you are in a country where TikTok is banned, you may change the country of your App Store to another country where TikTok is available. For iPhone or iPad, you may also create a new Apple ID in another country and try to use it to download TikTok.
Related tutorial: How to Change Your Google Play Store Country
Countries Banned TikTok – FAQs
1. Why is TikTok banned in China?
TikTok is unavailable in China, but the Chinese use its sister app Douyin. The main reason to restrict TikTok is that China may want to maintain strict control of internet content and usage in its country.
2. Why did India ban TikTok?
India banned TikTok in June 2020. The main reason is national security and privacy concerns.
- In which countries can TikTok be used?
Apart from the countries mentioned above that have banned TikTok partially or completely, it should be available in other countries. In countries where TikTok is partially banned for certain individuals, others who are not restricted can still use TikTok.
