Does the free CBC Gem tier work abroad?
Yes, with a Canadian perch and a free CBC account.
Streaming guide
How to Watch CBC Gem Abroad with a VPN
CBC Gem's free tier is open to Canadian viewers; Gem Premium removes ads. Both need a Canadian connection.
Perch needed — Canada
CBC Gem is licensed in Canada. Set your tree house there before you open it.
Step by step
- 1
Install OwlGate on your phone, tablet, laptop or TV box and sign in.
- 2
Open Locations and pick a Canada tree house — or press "Switch to Canada perch" on the CBC Gem card and we set the nearest one for you.
- 3
Connect and wait for the handshake to go green on the Connection page.
- 4
Clear your browser cache (or force-stop the CBC Gem app) so it re-checks your location.
- 5
Open gem.cbc.ca, sign in to your CBC account and press play.
Before you press play
- Use your own account and subscription — a perch changes your route, not your entitlement.
- Check the provider's terms and the rules where you are; some services restrict use outside their licensed region.
- Run the leak test so DNS isn't resolving outside the tunnel.
CBC Gem FAQ
Toronto or Vancouver?
From Europe, Toronto is closer and faster. From Asia-Pacific, Vancouver usually wins.