TikTok is a fun app where you can watch and create short videos, but sometimes it’s not available in the App Store due to regional restrictions or if you’ve deleted it. Don’t worry! You can get TikTok back on your iPhone by changing your App Store region or using a VPN if needed. Here’s how to download TikTok back on iPhone in a few clear steps:
- Open the App Store, search for TikTok, and download it if it appears.
- If TikTok isn’t available, go to Settings > [Your Name] > Media & Purchases > View Account > Country/Region and change it to a country like Canada or France.
- Install a free VPN from the App Store, connect to the same country as your new region, then search for TikTok again to download it.
This guide will walk you through each step in detail, so you can enjoy TikTok no matter where you are or what iPhone model you have. Let’s dive in!
Why Can’t You Find TikTok in the App Store?
Sometimes, TikTok doesn’t show up in the App Store because of where you are. For example, some countries, like the United States, have restrictions or bans on TikTok, which means it’s not available in the App Store for users in those regions. If you deleted TikTok and try to reinstall it, you might see a message saying it’s “not available” in your country.
This happens because your Apple ID is tied to a specific country, and the App Store only shows apps allowed in that region. Don’t worry—this guide will show you how to fix this by changing your region and, if needed, using a VPN to match your Wi-Fi location.
To make the most of your iPhone’s features, check out The Ultimate iPhone User Guide for tips on optimizing your device settings.
How to Download TikTok Back on iPhone
Let’s get started with the main steps to download TikTok back on your iPhone. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll have TikTok installed in no time.
Step 1: Check the App Store First
Before making any changes, try downloading TikTok directly from the App Store. Here’s how:
- Open the App Store on your iPhone.
- Tap the Search icon at the bottom of the screen.
- Type “TikTok” in the search bar at the top and press Search.
- If TikTok appears, tap the Download button (it looks like a cloud with an arrow) to install it.
If TikTok shows up, great—you’re done! But if it doesn’t appear or says it’s unavailable, move to the next step. This is common in regions with restrictions, like the United States.
Step 2: Change Your App Store Region
If TikTok isn’t in the App Store, your Apple ID’s region might be set to a country where TikTok is restricted. Changing your region to a country like Canada or France can fix this. Here’s how to do it:
- Go to Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap your name at the top of the screen.
- Tap Media & Purchases, then select View Account. You might need to sign in with your Apple ID.
- Tap Country/Region, then select Change Country or Region.
- Choose a country where TikTok is available, such as Canada or France. Avoid the United States or United Kingdom, as they may have restrictions.
- Agree to the terms and conditions by tapping Agree.
- Enter a billing address for the new country. You can use a valid address from that country—search online for a sample address if needed (like a hotel or business address in Canada or France).
- Tap Next to save the changes.
Your App Store region is now updated. Go back to the App Store, search for TikTok again, and try downloading it. If it still doesn’t work, you might need a VPN, which we’ll cover next.
For more help with iPhone settings, see How to Use a VPN on iPhone to learn about VPNs and other network options.
Step 3: Install and Use a Free VPN
If you changed your region but TikTok still isn’t available, your iPhone’s Wi-Fi might still be connected to a network in a restricted country (like the United States). A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can make your internet connection appear to come from the same country as your new App Store region. Here’s how to set it up:
- Open the App Store and search for “VPN.”
- Choose a free, trusted VPN app, such as Proton VPN, NordVPN (free trial), or TunnelBear. Read reviews to ensure it’s safe and reliable.
- Download and install the VPN app.
- Open the VPN app and sign in or create an account if required.
- Select a server location that matches your new App Store region (e.g., Canada or France).
- Connect to the VPN by tapping the connect button in the app.
Once connected, go back to the App Store, search for TikTok, and download it. The VPN ensures your internet location matches your App Store region, so TikTok should now appear.
If you need to turn off the VPN later, check out How to Turn Off VPN on iPhone for simple instructions.
Step 4: Try Accessing TikTok via Safari (Optional)
If the App Store still doesn’t show TikTok, you can try accessing it through the TikTok website. This sometimes redirects you to the App Store with the correct settings. Here’s how:
- Open Safari on your iPhone.
- Search for “TikTok login” or go to the official TikTok website (www.tiktok.com).
- Tap any link that says “Download” or “Open TikTok.”
- If prompted, you might see a message saying TikTok isn’t available. If so, double-check your region and VPN settings, then try again.
This step usually works after you’ve changed your region and connected to a VPN. If it redirects you to the App Store, download TikTok from there.
Step 5: Verify TikTok Installation
After downloading TikTok, open the app to make sure it works. Sign in with your account or create a new one. If the app opens and you can browse videos, you’re all set! If you run into issues, double-check that your VPN is connected and your region is set correctly.
For more app management tips, see How to Unhide Apps on iPhone to ensure TikTok stays accessible on your home screen.
Important Tips for Success
Here’s a quick table summarizing key tips to avoid problems when downloading TikTok:
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Choose the Right Region | Select Canada or France for your App Store region, as these countries typically have no TikTok restrictions. |
| Use a Trusted VPN | Pick a free VPN with good reviews, like Proton VPN or TunnelBear, to ensure safety and reliability. |
| Match VPN and Region | Your VPN server location must match your App Store region (e.g., Canada VPN for Canada region). |
| Enter a Valid Address | When changing regions, use a real billing address from the new country to avoid errors. |
| Clear App Store Cache | If TikTok doesn’t appear, go to App Store > tap your profile > scroll down and tap “Sign Out,” then sign back in. |
Following these tips will help you avoid common issues and get TikTok back quickly.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
If you run into trouble, here are some fixes:
- TikTok Still Not Showing in App Store: Ensure your VPN is connected and set to the same country as your App Store region. Try signing out and back into the App Store.
- Region Change Error: Double-check that you’ve entered a valid billing address and agreed to the terms. Cancel any active App Store subscriptions, as they can block region changes.
- VPN Not Connecting: Try a different free VPN app or restart your iPhone. Learn more about restarting in How to Shut Down or Force Restart Any iPhone Model.
- App Won’t Download: Make sure you have enough storage on your iPhone and a stable internet connection.
FAQ: Common Questions About Downloading TikTok on iPhone
1. Why is TikTok not available in my App Store?
TikTok may be restricted in your country, like the United States, due to local laws or bans. Change your App Store region to a country like Canada or France to access it.
2. Do I need a VPN to download TikTok?
You only need a VPN if your Wi-Fi is in a restricted country (like the USA) after changing your App Store region. The VPN makes your internet location match your new region.
3. Is it safe to use a free VPN to download TikTok?
Yes, if you choose a trusted VPN like Proton VPN or TunnelBear. Read reviews and avoid unknown apps to protect your privacy.
4. Can I change my App Store region back after downloading TikTok?
Yes, you can change your region back by following the same steps in Settings > [Your Name] > Media & Purchases > View Account > Country/Region. TikTok will stay installed.
5. What if I don’t have a billing address for Canada or France?
Search online for a public address, like a hotel or business in the country, and use it for the App Store region change. This is usually enough to complete the process.
Conclusion
Downloading TikTok back on your iPhone is straightforward if you follow these steps: check the App Store, change your region to Canada or France if needed, and use a free VPN to match your Wi-Fi location. By carefully updating your settings and using trusted tools, you’ll have TikTok up and running in no time, no matter where you are.