“I can't open ChatGPT when I arrive overseas!” “I can't access Gemini!” — Have you ever felt anxious because you suddenly couldn't use your AI tools while traveling or on a business trip?

As of February 2026, generative AI services such as ChatGPT and Gemini are not available in all countries. There are regions where access is blocked due to government regulations or OpenAI/Google policies, such as China, Hong Kong, and Russia.

In this article, we will provide a list of countries and regions where ChatGPT and Gemini cannot be used, the reasons for this, and an easy-to-understand explanation of how to use a VPN (virtual private network) to continue using AI while traveling.

In which countries/regions can ChatGPT not be used?

OpenAI, which provides ChatGPT, has officially determined the countries and regions where it can be used. As a general rule, access is not possible from countries that are not on the OpenAI official supported country list.

As of February 2026, the main countries and regions where ChatGPT cannot be used are as follows.

  • China (Mainland): Access blocked from 2023. The cause is the Chinese government's Internet regulations (Great Firewall)
  • Hong Kong: OpenAI will officially restrict access in July 2024. Points that travelers are especially likely to get hooked on as they were previously usable
  • Russia: OpenAI stops providing services
  • North Korea: OpenAI not supported
  • Iran: OpenAI not supported
  • Syria: OpenAI not supported
  • Cuba: OpenAI not supported

In other words, China and Hong Kong, which are common destinations for Japanese people, are the areas of greatest caution. ``Hong Kong is a free city, so it's okay, right?'' When I went there, I was shocked to find that I couldn't open ChatGPT... This is exactly the real voice that was trending in X.

By the way, Italy temporarily blocked ChatGPT in March 2023, but OpenAI subsequently implemented privacy measures and the ban was lifted in April of the same year. Traveling to Europe is currently not a problem.

In which countries/regions can Gemini not be used?

Google's Gemini (formerly Bard) is also not available in some countries/regions.

The Gemini web app is officially available in over 230 countries and regions, but is not available in mainland China and Hong Kong. All Google services are blocked in China, so Gemini is no exception.

To summarize, Both ChatGPT and Gemini cannot be used in China and Hong Kong. If you go to China, you need to prepare on the assumption that AI cannot be used.

Why are AI services blocked overseas?

There are two main answers to the question "Why can't I use it?"

Reason 1: The country's government is blocking it

In countries where the government censors the Internet, such as China and North Korea, access to overseas web services itself is restricted. China's "Great Firewall" is famous. Google, YouTube, X (Twitter), Instagram, etc. are also not available in mainland China.

Reason 2: AI companies have stopped providing it

In July 2024, OpenAI took measures to block API access for users in mainland China, Hong Kong, and other countries (Bank Info Security Report). This is considered to be a response based on US export controls and sanctions.

In short, there are both cases in which the state is blocking it and cases in which AI companies are blocking it, and China and Hong Kong are in a situation where both are overlapping.

Can I use ChatGPT/Gemini overseas with a VPN?

In conclusion, a VPN can help in most cases.

Roughly speaking, VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a system that allows you to connect to the Internet via a server in another country. For example, even if you are in China, if you use a VPN to go through a Japanese server, it will look like you are accessing from Japan, so you can use ChatGPT and Gemini.

VPN setup procedure (for iPhone/Android)

Step 1: Install a VPN app before traveling

This is the most important. You may not be able to access the App Store or Google Play after arriving in China, so be sure to download it while you are in Japan.

Step 2: Create an account on the VPN app and subscribe to a paid plan

Free VPNs have slow speeds, unstable connections, and security risks, so if you want to seriously use them overseas, we recommend a paid VPN.

Step 3: Once you arrive at your destination, launch the VPN app and connect to the "Japan" server

Once the connection is established, you should be able to access ChatGPT and Gemini as usual.

Step 4: Check the connection

For iPhone, if the words "VPN" are displayed in the status bar at the top of the screen, the connection is established. On Android, a lock-shaped icon will appear at the top of the screen.

3 recommended VPN services for overseas travel

As of February 2026, we will introduce VPN services that have a reputation for being stable and usable even in overseas travel destinations (especially China and Hong Kong).

NordVPN

More than 7,100 servers installed in 111 countries around the world. It has a good balance of speed and security and is a standard overseas VPN. Can connect up to 10 devices at the same time. Approximately 500 yen per month (for 2-year plan). NordVPN official website

Surfshark

Compatible with over 3,200 servers in 100 countries around the world. You can connect an unlimited number of devices, so the advantage is that you can cover everyone on a family trip. 7-day free trial available (via mobile app). Surfshark official website

Watermelon VPN

It is operated by a Japanese company and the support is completely Japanese. It is also popular among Japanese people living overseas. Servers are installed in 45 cities around the world. Prices start from approximately 1,000 yen per month. Suika VPN official website

If you are unsure which one to choose, NordVPN or Surfshark's 2-year plan is the best for your money. If you're going on a short trip, you can get by with Surfshark's 7-day free trial.

Notes when using VPN

If you use a VPN, you will be able to use AI, but there are some points to be aware of.

1. Check the laws of your destination

Using a VPN is a gray area in China. Although using a VPN that is not approved by the government is technically illegal, there have been very few reports of foreign travelers being caught using one for personal use. However, the use of VPNs may be clearly prohibited by law in countries such as Russia, North Korea, and Iraq. Please check the VPN situation at your destination in advance.

2. OpenAI account ban risk

According to OpenAI's terms of service, access from outside of supported countries may be subject to account suspension. There are few reports of people being banned for using a VPN for short trips, but the risk is not zero. If you use it frequently for work, one option is to create a sub-account.

3. Avoid free VPNs

Some free VPN services sell communication data to third parties. Especially when logging into AI overseas, you enter your email address and password, so security risks cannot be ignored. Use a reliable paid VPN.

4. Don't forget to download before traveling

As I have said many times before, download and complete the setup of the VPN app while you are in Japan. It's really common to be unable to access the App Store or install a VPN after arriving in China.

FAQ

Q. Is it true that ChatGPT cannot be used in Hong Kong?

Yes. In July 2024, OpenAI officially blocked access from Hong Kong. It was available before then, so many people are surprised when they travel without knowing it. It can be used via VPN.

Q. Are there any AI chat services that can be used from overseas without a VPN?

Microsoft's Copilot may be available in regions where Bing is accessible. However, this cannot be guaranteed as some Bing features may be restricted in China. It is safe to prepare a VPN.

Q. Is it illegal to use a VPN overseas?

Using a VPN is legal in many countries. However, there are restrictions in countries such as China, Russia, North Korea, and Iraq. Although there have been no reports of foreign tourists being arrested for personal use in China, it is a legal gray area. Be sure to check the laws of your destination.

Q. Will my account be banned if I access ChatGPT using a VPN?

According to OpenAI's terms of service, accessing from unsupported regions risks account suspension. There are few reports of the service being suspended for temporary use on short trips, but the possibility is not zero. If you are concerned, consider using a sub-account.

Q. Can I download a VPN app after arriving at my destination?

Some functions of the App Store and Google Play are restricted in mainland China, so you may not be able to download VPN apps. Be sure to complete the download and setup while you are in Japan.

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