OpenAI’s API gives developers access to the same artificial intelligence models behind ChatGPT for their own applications.
This includes advanced natural language processing tasks such as text generation, text completion, and question answering.
The API’s easy-to-use interface requires no prior knowledge of machine learning, and many businesses already use it for customer service chatbots and virtual assistants.
However, what does it mean when you get an error saying OpenAI’s API is not available in your country?
Why is OpenAI’s API not available in your country?
API access to OpenAI is restricted based on certain geographic locations.
Restrictions are in place to comply with international trade regulations and sanctions. And to ensure that the technology is used for lawful purposes.
Currently, neither the API nor the ChatGTP chatbot is officially available in Afghanistan, Belarus, China, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Syria, Ukraine, and Venezuela.
If you’re located in one of these countries, you’ll receive the error message: OpenAI’s API is not available in your country.
You can view the current list of supported countries here.
Besides these regions, there are a few other countries where ChatGPT is not available, although not officially banned by their respective authorities.
Although there has been a public backlash over the restrictions on Ukraine, users still can’t access the API if their visible IP address is linked to the country.
Here’s how you can get around the restrictions:
How to access OpenAI’s API from anywhere?
OpenAI uses common geo-blocking methods to stop the site from loading in unsupported countries. This involves logging IP addresses and other location data.
The best way to access the API from anywhere is to spoof your IP address.
Use a VPN
A VPN can change your visible IP address by routing all your internet traffic through a separate server.
To access OpenAI’s API we recommend ExpressVPN. It has fast and reliable servers in all supported countries, with strong leak protection so your real location always stays hidden.
We also reviewed the best VPNs for ChatGPT for those that just want to use the chatbot.
Here’s how to use ExpressVPN to access the API:
- Register with ExpressVPN and download the relevant app to your device.
- Launch ExpressVPN and sign into your account.
- Use the three dots to open the full list of locations and choose a server from a supported country.
Use the three dots to open the full list of locations and choose a server from a supported country. We recommend the United States for most users or the UK if you’re located in Belarus or Ukraine.
- Connect by using the big on/off button and wait for it to go green.
- Reload OpenAI and you should now have access to the API pages.
Note: It’s a good idea to clear your browser of any OpenAI cookies and data, in case it still remembers your real location.
ExpressVPN
Access OpenAI’s API from any country and enjoy a stable and secure connection with ExpressVPN.Wrap up
If OpenAI’s API is not available in your country, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the artificial intelligence wave.
By using a good service like ExpressVPN, you can easily change your country and unblock access to the OpenAPI site and all its features.