How to Download WeChat in India After Ban (Our Simple Trick)

How to Install WeChat in India After The Ban (Our 2025 Guide)

how to use wechat in India

In 2020, WeChat faced a nationwide ban in India, leaving millions of users searching for ways to access the popular messaging platform. Despite the restrictions, many users still rely on WeChat for staying connected with friends, family, and business partners, especially across borders. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to install WeChat in India after the ban, updated for 2025. By leveraging secure and reliable methods, such as using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), you can bypass these restrictions safely and seamlessly. Our guide ensures you stay informed and protected while accessing WeChat in India.

Is it Legal to Install WeChat in India after the ban?

Before getting into how to install WeChat in India, we think it is best to address first what we consider to be the most important question, namely whether it is legal to access WeChat in India with a VPN. So, for those who rightly fear legal repercussions, let us clear the air now, although we will return to this subject later in this article.

As Business Today clearly reports on the matter, “some argue that those who use such apps illegally may face legal consequences, but the government has clarified the situation, saying there is no penalty or punishment [for] such individuals.” This clarification was revealed in a Right to Information (RTI) query and was promptly confirmed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in its official response, which clearly stated that “there is no penalty for individual users of such apps.

Quick Guide on How To Install WeChat in India After the Ban

With the ban on WeChat in India, many users are looking for effective ways to continue using the app, which has become much more than just a social media platform.

The most reliable method is arguably via a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which allows you to bypass regional restrictions. This section will guide you step-by-step on how to install WeChat in India using a VPN, ensuring a seamless and secure process for staying in touch with your contacts. We will use Surfshark as an example:

  1. Visit Surfshark’s official website.

    Navigate to Surfshark’s official website, or the VPN or your choice, on your device to begin the process of unblocking WeChat in India. Ensure you’re accessing a legitimate site to secure your connection.

  2. Select and purchase your ideal subscription plan on your PC, laptop, or mobile device.

    Choose a subscription plan that suits your needs. Whether you’re on a PC, laptop, or mobile, this step ensures you can seamlessly access WeChat in India.

  3. Create an account on the Surfshark website.

    Register your account on Surfshark’s platform. This is essential for activating the VPN and unlocking WeChat in India.

  4. Download and set up the VPN software on your device.

    Install Surfshark’s VPN software on your device. Follow the on-screen instructions to configure it correctly and prepare for unrestricted access to WeChat in India.

  5. Sign in to your Surfshark account.

    Use your credentials to log in to the Surfshark application. This step links your device to the VPN service, enabling you to bypass restrictions on WeChat in India.

  6. Connect to a server in a region where WeChat is accessible (wide choice).

    Select a server located in a region where WeChat is not banned. Surfshark offers a wide range of server locations to help you unblock WeChat in India effortlessly.

  7. Proceed to download and install WeChat from the App Store or Google Play Store.

    Once connected to the VPN, head to the App Store or Google Play Store to download and install WeChat. This ensures you can start using WeChat in India without issues.

  8. Open the VPN application.

    Keep the VPN running while you use WeChat to maintain a secure and unrestricted connection. This is crucial for continued access to WeChat in India.

  9. Launch the WeChat app and enjoy using it.

    Open the WeChat app and log in or create an account. With Surfshark’s VPN, you can now enjoy using WeChat in India without limitations.

Tip: Always ensure that your WeChat app is updated to the latest version to enjoy all the features without any hitches. An updated app ensures better security, improved functionality, and a smoother user experience.

Best VPNs to Unblock and Use WeChat in India

To help you access WeChat in India, we are confident in suggesting ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark as the top choices. These VPNs are highly regarded in the industry for their overall superior performence compared to other paid servics, particularly in terms of fast connections, robust security, and ability to bypass geo-blocks efficiently. As for free VPNs, while they may be tempting, they generally lack the reliability and security features necessary for consistent access, making these premium options the best choice for seamless and secure WeChat usage.

Overall Best in Our Tests

ExpressVPN

Overall score: 9.8

  • Super-fast servers
  • AES 256-bit encryption
  • Supports private protocol, Lightway
  • Money-back guarantee

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ExpressVPN is the best means for unblocking WeChat since the Indian ban. It has some of the best VPN features you can find. For instance, ExpressVPN covers over 105 countries worldwide, with 3,000 servers in 160 locations. Therefore, you can connect to servers in several countries where WeChat is available.

In addition, ExpressVPN combines speed and security in its Lightway protocol. So, a VPN connection will not adversely affect your WeChat connection. ExpressVPN also uses the AES 256-bit encryption for security, meaning you will be safe from internet threats while using this VPN for WeChat in India.

Plus, third parties cannot know that you’re using WeChat in India. This is because ExpressVPN has a strict no-log policy. This policy ensures that the VPN doesn’t store your internet connection logs. So, they cannot trace it back to you. ExpressVPN is also compatible with different gadgets and operating systems. Furthermore, you can use your Express VPN account on up to five of your browsing devices simultaneously.

However, all these excellent features slightly drive ExpressVPN’s prices up. So, it is a bit more expensive than its alternatives, and that’s because you’ll get your money’s worth. In addition, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee for all ExpressVPN subscribers, period during which you can evaluate its quality, and have the money refunded if not satisfied.

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Cheapest Option

NordVPN

Overall score: 9.6

  • Incredibly fast servers
  • Great security features
  • Verified no-logs policy
  • Unblocks streaming platforms

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Another excellent option for using WeChat inside India is NordVPN. This top-tier VPN also has all the exceptional features for unblocking WeChat. Notably, you can pick a new NordVPN IP address from about 111 countries. You just have to connect to one of NordVPN’s 7,000+ ultrafast servers in these countries.

Some countries have thousands of servers. So, you wouldn’t have to deal with server overcrowding and slow connection speeds. NordVPN also invests heavily in security. While enjoying WeChat with this VPN, you’ll be safe behind its AES 256-bit encryption. Therefore, hackers and other cybercriminals cannot exploit your connection.

Furthermore, NordVPN also has a reliable no-log policy. Thanks to this company policy, it neither stores nor shares your connection logs with third parties. This means that no one can know you’re bypassing the WeChat ban. Getting a NordVPN app for your WeChat device is also easy.

There are apps for all the popular platforms. In addition, you can simultaneously use one subscription plan for six different devices. Fortunately, NordVPN is cheaper than ExpressVPN. For instance, you can unblock WeChat in India annually for as low as $3.39/month. You’ll also get a 30-day money-back guarantee with this VPN option.

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Best for Connecting Multiple Devices

Surfshark

Overall score: 9.5

  • Allows unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Integrates Stealth mode
  • Multihop feature available
  • 3,000+ servers

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Surfshark, our third recommendation, can also help you access your WeChat account within India. With over 3,500 servers in 100+ countries worldwide, you can quickly get a new Surfshark IP address for WeChat. In addition, Surfshark’s servers are all high-speed, so you wouldn’t have to worry about poor connections.

Its incredible browsing speed lets you enjoy hitch-free discussions on WeChat. Surfshark is also great for gaming and unblocking streaming platforms.

While enjoying WeChat with this VPN, you won’t have to worry about hackers. This is because Surfshark’s AES 256-bit encryption will protect your data. Furthermore, it also has a strict zero-log policy. This means that it doesn’t store or share users’ data. So, your WeChat usage, despite the ban, will remain a secret.

You can also unblock WeChat on all your devices. These include Android, Windows, Apple, and Linux gadgets. In addition, Surfshark allows an unlimited number of simultaneous connections on one account. 

Finally, you can get Surfshark for WeChat at amazingly low rates. For example, a bi-annual subscription only costs $2.49/month. All subscriptions on Surfshark also come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Therefore, you can get a refund if you don’t enjoy using Surfshark.

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See how to install WeChat in India either on iPhone or Android

Can I Use WeChat in India with a Free VPN?

Certainly, we understand the attraction to free VPN services, but it must be borne in mind that they come at a cost (albeit not a monetary one), consisting of significant limitations and risks. Indeed, although they offer basic encryption and the ability to bypass some geo-restrictions, these advantages are often overshadowed by critical drawbacks:

  • Limited Server Availability: Free VPNs typically don’t have the capital for an exstensive server network, resulting in a very limited number of servers, which often become overcrowded due to high user demand. This congestion results in slower connection speeds and unreliable access, making it difficult to maintain a consistent connection to WeChat.
  • Compromised Security: Many free VPNs do not offer robust encryption, leaving your data vulnerable to interception by third parties. Additionally, to cover operational costs, some free VPN providers may sell user data to advertisers or other entities to raise capital for their running costs, potentially exposing your internet activities to unwanted surveillance, including by government authorities.
  • Data Caps and Bandwidth Restrictions: Another significant drawback is that free VPNs often impose data caps and bandwidth limits. This can interrupt your usage, especially when engaging in activities that require higher data consumption, such as video calls or large file transfers on WeChat.

For a secure and reliable solution on how to download WeChat in India either on iPhone or Android, we therefore recommend using premium VPN services like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark. These services provide extensive server networks, strong encryption, and reliable access to geo-restricted content, ensuring a smooth and safe WeChat experience.

Tips for Using WeChat in India

When using WeChat in India, prioritizing online security is essential due to the restrictions in place. Start by selecting a trustworthy VPN provider, such as Surfshark, NordVPN, or ExpressVPN, to mask your IP address and access WeChat from a region where it remains functional. Always connect to a server in a country that allows WeChat, such as Singapore or the US, for uninterrupted access.

To enhance your experience, ensure your WeChat app is always updated to the latest version. Regular updates fix bugs and improve functionality, making it easier to navigate and use the app smoothly. Additionally, disable unnecessary app permissions to protect your privacy, and use strong, unique passwords for your WeChat account.

Finally, avoid suspicious links or messages, as scams and phishing attempts can still occur on the platform. By following these tips, you can enjoy WeChat in India safely and efficiently, even after the ban.

Common Issues When Using WeChat in India (& Their Solutions)

Despite using a VPN to access WeChat in India, users may encounter a few common challenges. The most frequent issue is slow connection speeds, which can result from overcrowded VPN servers or poor internet connections. To resolve this, switch to a different VPN server in a nearby region for faster performance.

Another issue is difficulty receiving OTPs (One-Time Passwords) required for logging in or registering an account. If this occurs, ensure your VPN is active, and select a server in a country where WeChat supports SMS services. Alternatively, consider linking your account to an active email address for easier verification.

Occasionally, users may experience app crashes or failed logins due to outdated software or device settings. Always keep your WeChat app and VPN software up to date to minimize compatibility issues. Clear your device’s cache and restart the app if problems persist.

Finally, ensure that your VPN is properly configured to prevent leaks that may expose your location. Enabling features such as a kill switch and DNS leak protection can provide an additional layer of security, ensuring your access to WeChat in India remains uninterrupted.

Conclusion: How to Install & Use WeChat in India

While the ban on WeChat in India presents challenges, it’s not the end of the road for those needing the platform. By using a reliable VPN, you can safely install and access WeChat from India in 2025. Start by selecting a trusted VPN provider, connecting to a server in a region where WeChat operates, and downloading the app through official sources like the App Store or Google Play Store.

Remember to follow security best practices while using the app, such as keeping your software updated, using strong passwords, and avoiding suspicious content. Address common issues proactively by maintaining a stable VPN connection and keeping an eye on compatibility updates for both WeChat and your device.

By following these steps, you can continue to enjoy the seamless communication and rich features that WeChat offers, even within India’s restrictions. Stay informed, stay secure, and make the most of our 2025 guide to accessing WeChat in India.

FAQs: How to Install & Use WeChat in India

Can my ISP or other entities detect that I’m using a VPN for WeChat?

No, neither ISPs nor the Indian government will know that you’re unblocking WeChat with a VPN. However, we can guarantee this fact only with the VPNs mentioned above. This is because they all have strict no-log policies. Such a policy means that they don’t store your VPN usage logs. Therefore, such non-existent records cannot be leaked, stolen, or sold. Your ISP or the government thus cannot link your WeChat usage to you.

Is it legal to unblock WeChat with a VPN in India?

Generally, it’s perfectly lawful to use a VPN in India. This is because there are many legitimate uses for VPNs worldwide. In addition, India isn’t amongst the countries that ban or restrict VPN usage. As a matter of fact, there isn’t any law or order in India expressly banning such bypasses. You thus can safely enjoy WeChat in India with your VPN.

Is it safe to use WeChat in India on iPhone or Android?

WeChat is known for having robust security features, but it also has a reputation for monitoring and censoring user communications. This surveillance extends beyond Chinese borders, affecting users globally. While WeChat remains popular in India and other countries, it’s advisable to be cautious about sharing sensitive information on the platform.

Can I use WeChat Pay in India?

WeChat Pay operates with limitations in India due to financial regulations. It is advisable to explore other local payment options that are widely accepted and compliant with Indian laws, such as Paytm, Google Pay, PhonePe, or UPI (Unified Payments Interface). These options ensure smooth and compliant transactions within the country.

Can I use a proxy server to unblock WeChat in India?

Yes, you may use a proxy server instead of a VPN for WeChat. However, we deem it’s best to stick to VPNs. Altough both tools can indeed hide your real IP address. proxy servers cannot however encrypt your internet connection. Therefore, while using proxy servers for WeChat in India, you’ll remain at the mercy of hackers and data snoops. 

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