Buying tickets on Ticketmaster when you are located in a different country than the event can be tricky. Ticketmaster has country-specific websites and restrictions in place that can make purchasing tickets as an international customer difficult. However, with some preparation and knowledge of how Ticketmaster’s system works, it is possible to successfully buy tickets on Ticketmaster from another country.
Understanding Ticketmaster’s Country Restrictions
Ticketmaster divides its inventory into different country-specific websites. For example, Ticketmaster.com is for the US market, Ticketmaster.co.uk is for the UK, etc. Tickets sold on a particular country site are often restricted to customers with credit cards issued in that country. So if you try to purchase on the US site with a UK credit card, you may run into problems.
In addition, certain tickets are further restricted to residents of that country only. There may be language during checkout like “Sales restricted to US residents only” for big US shows or events. Trying to purchase with an international IP address or foreign credit card is likely to fail in those cases.
So the first hurdle is making sure the tickets you want are not limited to residents of the country you are purchasing from. Check for any language restricting sales on the event page or during the checkout process.
Using a Proxy or VPN
If sales are not restricted, one option is to use a proxy server or VPN to route your web traffic through an IP address in the country you are purchasing from. This tricks Ticketmaster into thinking you are browsing from that country.
Set up a proxy or VPN connection to the country whose Ticketmaster site you are using. For example, if you are accessing Ticketmaster.com to buy US tickets, route your connection through a US server. Instructions for setting up proxies and VPNs can be found online.
One downside is proxies sometimes get blacklisted by sites trying to prevent exactly this. And using a VPN slows down your connection. But proxies and VPNs are free options to try purchasing tickets internationally.
Using an International Credit Card
Another key requirement is having a credit card issued in the country you are purchasing tickets from. Like with the IP address, Ticketmaster wants to validate your payment method is also from that country.
So for buying tickets on the US Ticketmaster site, you need a credit card issued by a US bank. For the UK site, you need a UK credit card. Using a card from your home country may lead to declined transactions.
There are some ways to get international credit cards:
- Apply for a credit card in that country if you have an address there.
- Use a friend or family member’s card in that country with their permission.
- Get a prepaid credit card in that country that you can load with funds.
- Open an international bank account and apply for a card from their branch in that country.
Having an international card that matches the Ticketmaster site provides an extra layer of reassurance when buying cross-border.
Using Ticket Resale Sites
If all else fails, you can turn to ticket resale sites like StubHub that facilitate international sales. Resale platforms don’t have the same country restrictions as Ticketmaster.
Fans from one country can sell tickets on Stubhub to buyers from other countries. So you may be able to find tickets on StubHub to an event in the US even if Ticketmaster won’t allow you to purchase as an international buyer.
The downside is selection on resale sites depends entirely on what tickets fans choose to resell. And prices are often inflated well above face value. But if your only option is the secondary market, sites like StubHub are worth checking out.
Using a Ticket Buying Service
Another option is using a ticket concierge or buying service. These are services you pay a fee to so they can purchase tickets on your behalf from their location in that country.
For example, a ticket buying service with a US address can buy tickets for you on the US Ticketmaster site and then transfer them to you electronically or ship them to your international address.
The advantage here is reliability since you are paying for their expertise working around country restrictions. But service fees can be high on top of an already expensive ticket price.
Purchasing Official VIP Packages
One way around country restrictions is purchasing special VIP ticket packages through the event’s official hospitality or tourism partners.
The event organizer and tourism boards of host cities often sell premium ticket packages bundled with hotels, food and beverage credit, souvenirs, etc. These are designed with international audiences in mind.
For example, the NFL sells expensive Super Bowl packages to international fans that bundle game tickets with hotels and parties. So if the NFL won’t sell you a ticket separately as an international buyer, these special packages are one way to secure tickets by paying a premium.
Purchasing at Physical Box Offices
When all else fails, you can always try buying tickets in person if you have the ability to travel to that country. Major events often hold back some ticket inventory only available for in-person sales.
So for a big concert in London, you may not have luck securing tickets online. But flying to London and physically purchasing tickets at the box office there is an option if you have the time and budget.
The downside is box office availability is unpredictable. But for high demand events, it can be your last shot at scoring hard-to-find tickets.
Key Tips for International Ticket Purchases
Here are some key tips to keep in mind when buying Ticketmaster tickets abroad:
- Always check for resident restrictions on the event page and during checkout.
- Have an international credit card and billing address in the country you are purchasing from.
- Use a proxy, VPN, or ticket reseller if Ticketmaster’s country sites don’t work.
- Purchase via an authorized ticket buying service who can buy on your behalf.
- Consider paying a premium for official VIP ticket packages.
- Be prepared to travel to purchase in person if you have to.
While not always easy, with preparation and persistence, international customers can successfully purchase tickets abroad on Ticketmaster. Do your research ahead of time and employ multiple strategies until you can find a method that works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my friend’s credit card in another country?
You can use a friend or family member’s credit card from another country with their express permission. However, the billing address on the card must match their legitimate address in that country.
What if I have trouble with a proxy or VPN?
Proxies and VPNs work inconsistently across sites due to blacklisting. If you run into errors with a particular proxy or VPN server, try rotating to another IP address from that country. The key is finding one not already blocked.
Are resale sites like StubHub trustworthy?
Stubhub and other major resale sites are generally safe to use thanks to buyer guarantees. However, always beware of scams on smaller resale sites. Price gouging is also common as demand increases.
Can I pick up tickets from will call if purchased internationally?
Typically you can pick up tickets from will call if you purchased internationally and had them shipped to the venue under your name. Bring the credit card used for purchase and a photo ID.
What happens if my international purchase doesn’t work?
If your international Ticketmaster purchase fails, keep trying other suggested methods. Or contact their customer support. While inconvenient, your options are not exhausted yet.