Curious which partnerships actually pay well and why some brands convert better than others?
You’ll get a clear, up-to-date guide to the top offers so you can decide where to place your effort. The global market for private access tools topped nearly $50 billion in 2023, and some networks serve millions of customers — NordVPN alone serves over 14 million users worldwide.
This intro maps real commission models and cookie windows you need to know. For example, NordVPN offers up to 100% on one-month plans and renewals at 30–40% with a 30-day cookie. ExpressVPN pays fixed fees ($13 monthly, $22 semi‑annual, $36 annual) with monthly payouts. PureVPN and others mix one-time and lifetime recurring shares.
Use this guide to compare payout types, cookie lengths, and brand strength so you can pick the offers that match your traffic and content angles.
Key Takeaways
- Major brands offer varied models: CPA, revenue share, and hybrids.
- Cookie length and payout timing can change your cash flow.
- High first‑sale payouts often come with lower renewal shares.
- Match product features to user intent for better conversions.
- Track brand promos and creative assets to lift EPCs.
The VPN affiliate opportunity in the US right now
The U.S. market now offers a strong runway for partners who can match privacy needs with clear conversion funnels.
Why it matters: Interest surged after 2013 surveillance disclosures and then grew faster during lockdowns, remote work, and the boom in e‑commerce. The global market hit nearly $50 billion in 2023, which means more paying users and better lifetime value for referrals.
Direct advertisers like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, PureVPN, PIA, CyberGhost, Avast, IPVanish, and TunnelBear pay competitive rates. You can work with networks or go direct. Networks let you test multiple offers quickly, while direct deals often raise your take-home commission.
- You’re in a mature, fast‑growing industry where privacy and remote work expanded the addressable users base.
- US buyers pay for paid access to stream geo‑locked content, secure public Wi‑Fi, and protect financial data — improving CPS conversions.
- Models range from CPI for beginners to CPS and RevShare; each needs different funnels and cash‑flow planning.
Budget for testing measured in weeks or months. Specialize your positioning (streaming, privacy, device limits) to raise EPCs and shorten ramp time.
vpn affiliate programs: commission models, cookie windows, and payout mechanics
Your choice of commission type and attribution window determines short‑term cash and long‑term lifetime value.
CPA vs RevShare vs hybrid
CPA deals front‑load earnings. For example, ExpressVPN pays fixed fees: $13 monthly, $22 semi‑annual, $36 annual. That works well if you need fast payouts.
RevShare pays a cut of each sale over time. Surfshark offers 40%+ on new sales. This can outpace CPA if renewals stick.
Hybrids add an upfront payout plus recurring share. PureVPN mixes a strong initial share (40% on longer terms) with 35% lifetime recurring to boost long‑term revenue.
Cookie duration and attribution
Cookie length affects attribution and ROI. NordVPN and Surfshark use 30‑day windows. IPVanish and CyberGhost give 45 days. PureVPN extends to 90 days.
A longer duration helps when users research across sessions. A 90‑day cookie can capture later buyers who compare offers.
Payout methods and thresholds
Most networks pay via PayPal or wire. ExpressVPN issues monthly PayPal payments before the 15th with a $100 minimum and wires at $1,000+.
Surfshark pays by request after 30 days with multiple options. PureVPN pays monthly, with PayPal threshold at $100 and wire at $500.
| Model | Example | Cookie | Payout Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPA | ExpressVPN | 30 days | Fixed amounts; monthly PayPal, $100 min; wire at $1,000 |
| RevShare | Surfshark | 30 days | 40%+ on new sales; request payout after 30 days; multiple payout methods |
| Hybrid | PureVPN | 90 days | Upfront 40% on longer terms + 35% lifetime; PayPal $100 / wire $500 |
- Match model to cash flow: CPA for fast returns, RevShare for growing lifetime value.
- Track refund holds—some offers validate after money‑back windows end.
- Keep a live sheet of duration, approval rules, and thresholds to avoid payout surprises.
NordVPN affiliate program: up to 100% new signups with 30% renewals
If you want high initial returns and dependable long‑term income, NordVPN’s referral setup deserves attention.
Program snapshot: NordVPN, part of Nord Security since its 2012 launch, runs 5,500+ servers in 60 countries and serves over 14 million users worldwide. The offering supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and browser extensions. The program operates in‑house and provides global campaigns and integrations like wecantrack.
Commission, renewals, and cookie duration
New 1‑month signups pay a 100 commission on the first sale. Yearly and two‑year plans pay 40% up front. Renewals earn 30% recurring, which compounds over time.
The cookie duration is 30 days, so cross‑session shopping still credits your links. In‑house tracking and seasonal campaigns help you capture buyers across devices.
| Metric | Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Initial commission | 100% (1‑month) / 40% (1yr, 2yr) | Fast, front‑loaded revenue for your marketing |
| Renewals | 30% recurring | Builds predictable, passive income |
| Cookie | 30 days | Captures delayed purchases and research journeys |
- Use seasonal promos and curated creatives to lift conversion rates.
- Target streaming, travel, and multi‑device guides for higher performance.
Surfshark affiliate: competitive revenue share and performance bonuses
Surfshark combines a generous revenue split with performance bonuses that reward volume and longevity.
Founded in 2018, Surfshark runs 3,200+ servers across 100 countries and markets itself on unlimited devices and bundled security features.
Commission structure and tracking
What you earn: a 40% revenue share on new sales. Cookies last 30 days and minimum payout is $100.
Tracking runs through Impact, TUNE, and Avantlink. Payouts clear via PayPal, wire, or alternative currency after purchase validation. Performance bonuses and long-term plans (24 months) can lift total earnings.
| Metric | Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | 40% on new sales | High upfront value for each conversion |
| Cookie / Duration | 30 days | Captures multi-session buyers |
| Networks | Impact, TUNE, Avantlink | Smoother onboarding and reliable tracking |
| Payouts | $100 min; PayPal, wire, alt currency | Flexible options for US and global affiliates |
- Pitch unlimited devices to families and households for better conversion.
- Bundle features (antivirus, ad/malware block) to raise AOV and your cut per sale.
- Use clear pricing and money‑back guarantees to reduce friction in comparison content.
ExpressVPN affiliate program: fixed payouts on paid signups
For partners who prefer predictable returns, ExpressVPN’s per-signup model simplifies budgeting and testing.
Quick facts: ExpressVPN launched in 2009 and runs thousands of servers across 160 locations in 94 countries. The provider supports Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, and browser extensions.
Commissions are fixed by plan: $13 for monthly, $22 for six months, and $36 for annual signups. Cookies last 30 days. Payments go out monthly via PayPal before the 15th with a $100 minimum; wires are available for totals over $1,000.
“Fixed CPA makes cash flow predictable and simplifies paid campaign math.”
To drive sales, focus content on streaming, speed tests, and setup guides across platforms. Emphasize ease of use, 24/7 support, and the 30‑day refund policy to lower purchase friction.
- Use branded banners and custom landing pages to improve quality scores.
- Publish platform-specific tutorials to cut confusion and speed conversions.
- A/B test placements against other offers — annual plans boost the $36 payout.
- Ask your manager for creative and scaling tips as volume grows.
| Metric | Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Payouts | $13 / $22 / $36 | Predictable CPA for budgeting |
| Cookie | 30 days | Captures multi-session buyers |
| Payouts method | PayPal monthly; wire $1,000+ | Plan cash flow around monthly clears |
IPVanish affiliate: 50% commission with strong tier-1 speeds
IPVanish is a straightforward choice if you want predictable payouts and network quality that appeals to streamers and gamers.
Quick facts: Founded in 2012 and now part of Ziff Davis, the provider runs 2,200+ servers in 75+ locations. The ipvanish affiliate offer pays a flat 50% on monthly, quarterly, and annual plans via CJ Affiliate.
Plan flexibility and payout mechanics
You get 50% across plan terms, which simplifies earnings forecasts when you test CTAs or landing pages.
Commissions clear after the 30‑day money‑back period and use a 45‑day cookie duration, so you capture buyers who research before they buy.
“Flat commissions and tier‑1 speeds make IPVanish easy to scale for conversion-focused sites.”
- Use speed and low latency as your headline claims for gaming and streaming content.
- Leverage CJ Affiliate tracking and payouts (ACH or PayPal) if you already use that network.
- Publish device setup guides to reduce refunds and improve retention on annual plans.
- Consider email reminders during the 45‑day window to recover hesitant shoppers.
| Metric | Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | 50% flat (monthly/quarterly/annual) | Easy math for A/B tests and CPA comparisons |
| Cookie / Duration | 45 days | Longer attribution for multi-session buyers |
| Approval | Post 30‑day refund validation | Finalizes payouts after guarantee period |
| Network | CJ Affiliate | Simplifies tracking and consolidated payouts |
Avast SecureLine VPN affiliate: leverage a trusted cybersecurity brand
If your audience trusts established antivirus brands, Avast SecureLine gives you a simple cross‑sell angle.
Why it works: Avast, founded in 1995, carries long standing name recognition that lowers buyer friction. You can point to familiar product heritage when promoting a security product to readers who already know Avast.
Commission tiers and tracking
What you earn: a fixed 35% on the first month, standard tiers from 15–30% based on revenue, and a flat 30% rate for content sites.
The offer runs through CJ Affiliate and uses a 45‑day cookie, which helps capture buyers who compare across sessions.
Key selling points for your content
- Use Avast’s cybersecurity brand to reassure risk‑averse customers and lift clicks on reviews and how‑to guides.
- Promote support for up to 10 devices and 256‑bit AES with OpenVPN/OpenSSL for family and small office use.
- Leverage premade, region‑specific banners to improve relevance and seasonal CTRs without heavy creative work.
- Cross‑sell antivirus + SecureLine to raise average order value on security‑focused pages.
| Metric | Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Initial commission | 35% first month | Front‑loaded earnings for early cash flow |
| Standard tiers | 15–30% by revenue | Scale incentives as you drive volume |
| Content site rate | 30% flat | Predictable payouts for review and tutorial pages |
| Cookie | 45 days | Captures delayed purchases and multi‑session research |
“Use Avast’s policy transparency and familiar name to reassure users concerned about data and privacy.”
PureVPN affiliate program: 100% on monthly plus 35% lifetime recurring
PureVPN blends fast payouts with a long cookie window so you can capture both impulse and researched buyers.
Founded in 2006, PureVPN runs 6,500+ servers in 70+ countries and serves over 3 million users. The provider pays a 100% commission on monthly sales and 40% on other plans, plus a 35% lifetime recurring commission on renewals.
Why it converts
The 90‑day cookie duration helps you claim multi‑session purchases and multi‑device paths. That makes PureVPN a good pick for travel and streaming content where buyers compare offers over weeks.
Payout cadence and thresholds
Payments clear monthly between the 15th and 20th. PayPal withdrawals require $100; wire transfers need $500. Tracking runs on PureVPN’s platform with wecantrack integration.
Best-fit audiences
- Privacy seekers and long‑term subscribers who value recurring service.
- Travelers and streamers who need large server reach.
- Readers you can upsell with comparisons highlighting long cookies and lifetime RevShare.
| Metric | Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Initial payout | 100% (monthly) | Fast cash for each sale |
| Recurring | 35% lifetime | Compounding revenue over time |
| Cookie / Payout | 90 days / 15th–20th monthly | Better attribution and regular cash flow |
CyberGhost affiliate: up to 100% first-sale commissions
CyberGhost’s partner offer stands out if you want big first-sale payouts paired with a long attribution window.
Program highlights: Founded in 2011, CyberGhost runs 9,000+ servers in 90+ countries and claims over 38 million users. The offer pays up to a 100 commission on first sales and uses a 45-day cookie, giving you time to capture multi-session buyers.
The brand emphasizes a strict no‑logs policy, specialized streaming and torrenting servers, and support for up to seven devices. Owned by Kape Technologies, the platform supports seasonal campaigns and bonuses for strong performers.
Campaign angles
Position content around anonymity, streaming unlocks, and multi‑device household value. Walkthroughs for app setup, DNS leak checks, and platform‑specific guides raise trust and conversions.
- Use 100% first‑sale payouts for top‑of‑funnel reviews and seasonal pushes.
- Leverage the 45‑day duration to run comparison content that captures delayed buyers.
- Highlight server footprint and no‑logs policy in tables and trust boxes to speed decisions.
| Metric | Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| First-sale | Up to 100% | Fast revenue on initial conversions |
| Cookie | 45 days | Captures cross-session customers |
| Server reach | 9,000+ in 90+ countries | Supports streaming and global marketing |
TunnelBear affiliate: simple 50% commissions with fast payouts
A no-fuss commission and fast monthly payouts make TunnelBear a reliable pick for small publishers.
TunnelBear, founded in 2011 and acquired by McAfee in 2018, runs 3,000+ servers in 45+ countries. The service offers a free tier that fuels top‑of‑funnel interest and clear upgrade paths.
How the offer works: TunnelBear’s CJ Affiliate listing pays a flat 50% commission on every subscriber. Payouts clear monthly and the program is known for no earnings holds, which helps you smooth early cash flow.
- Easy to explain on comparison and deal pages.
- Friendly branding converts with students, travelers, and mobile-first users.
- Free tier plus simple onboarding drives upgrades if you add setup guides.
- CJ integration makes it quick to add the platform to your toolbox.
| Metric | Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | 50% flat | Simple math for earnings forecasts |
| Cookie / Payout | CJ Affiliate / Monthly, no holds | Fast clears help small publishers scale |
| Audience fit | Travelers, students, mobile users | High intent for public Wi‑Fi protection |
“Use mobile setup guides and campus listicles to turn free users into paid subscribers.”
Private Internet Access affiliate: up to 33% with strong no-logs positioning
For creators targeting privacy-first buyers, PIA’s mix of policy clarity and platform support makes it easy to convert.
What it is: Private Internet Access (PIA), founded in 2010 and now part of Kape Technologies, runs servers in 80+ countries and supports major platforms. The partner offering commonly pays up to 33% on qualifying subscriptions via KAPE/TUNE and typically uses a 30‑day cookie.
Commission specifics: new sales, renewals, and creative resources
Expect up to 33% on new sales through KAPE/TUNE. Network terms vary—some channels list 80% for monthly plans or 24% on renewals, so verify before scaling.
PIA supplies banners, videos, landing pages, and a conversion optimization service to help you launch pages fast and keep brand alignment.
Content strategies: privacy-first messaging and extensive server coverage
- Lead with policy: Put PIA’s strict no‑logs policy front and center to build trust with careful users.
- Use comparison tables that rank jurisdictions, audits, and policy clarity to help readers decide.
- Create platform setup tutorials and split‑tunneling guides to reduce churn and lift renewals.
- Leverage the 80+ country footprint for content about international access, torrenting rules, and speed consistency.
| Metric | Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | Up to 33% (KAPE/TUNE) | Good upfront revenue for review and comparison pages |
| Cookie | 30 days (typical) | Captures multi-session research buyers |
| Assets | Banners, videos, landing pages, CRO | Speeds launch and maintains brand consistency |
Tip: Test renewal-focused placements in onboarding and educational content. Privacy-minded readers often value clear policies and smooth onboarding, which raises lifetime value.
Conclusion
Close your rollout by pairing quick CPAs with recurring offers so you win both fast cash and long-term gains.
Quick recap: NordVPN, ExpressVPN, PureVPN, CyberGhost, IPVanish, and Surfshark each offer different mixes of payout, cookie duration, and tracking networks like Impact, CJ, and in-house platforms. PayPal and wire are common payout methods.
Focus your content and marketing on intent: streaming, privacy, and device guides convert best. Track EPC and rotate top performers to protect monthly income.
Next step: pick two CPA and two RevShare picks, publish optimized comparisons, and monitor performance. Keep a living doc of program terms so your best vpn affiliate stack stays accurate and profitable.
FAQ
What are the top programs that pay high commissions for promoting secure browsing services?
You should look at established brands with large user bases and proven conversion rates. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, PureVPN, CyberGhost, IPVanish, Avast SecureLine, TunnelBear, and Private Internet Access all offer competitive rates, creative assets, and global reach that help you maximize revenue.
How strong is the opportunity for promoting these services in the US right now?
The U.S. market remains robust. Demand for privacy, streaming access, and multi-device protection keeps growth steady. You can target cord-cutters, frequent travelers, remote workers, and privacy-conscious consumers for best results.
How do commission models differ and which yields the best lifetime earnings?
You’ll encounter CPA (one-time), revshare (recurring), and hybrid deals. CPA gives immediate payout, while revenue share builds passive income from renewals. Hybrid offers both. For long-term value, revshare or hybrid typically wins if the provider has strong retention.
Why does cookie duration matter and what should you aim for?
Cookie windows determine attribution. Longer windows (60–90 days) often improve ROI because users take time to convert. Seek offers with at least 30 days, and prefer 60–90 days for higher-ticket or longer evaluation cycles.
What payout methods and thresholds should you expect?
Most networks pay via PayPal, bank transfer (wire), or ACH. Minimum thresholds vary—commonly –0. Check processing frequency (monthly or bi-monthly) and hold periods for refund validation before funds clear.
What makes NordVPN’s offering attractive to promoters?
NordVPN combines high brand recognition, millions of users worldwide, strong conversion rates, and rich creatives. It often runs promotions and supports many platforms, which makes it easier for you to convert traffic.
How does NordVPN’s commission and renewal structure work?
NordVPN historically provides very high initial commissions on short-term sales and recurring percentages on longer terms. Expect one-time high returns on monthly signups and consistent recurring revenue on renewals.
What cookie duration and tracking does NordVPN use?
NordVPN typically uses a 30-day cookie window for global campaigns, which helps capture delayed signups while keeping attribution clear.
Why promote Surfshark and how does their revenue share compare?
Surfshark emphasizes unlimited devices and strong value pricing. They offer competitive revenue shares—often 40%+ for new sales—and work with major affiliate networks like Impact and TUNE, making tracking and reporting straightforward.
What positioning angles work best for Surfshark?
Focus on unlimited-device support, affordability, robust security features, and family or multi-user plans. Comparison content and price vs. features posts perform well.
How are ExpressVPN payouts structured?
ExpressVPN tends to use fixed payouts based on subscription length—monthly, semi-annual, and annual tiers yield different flat rates. This makes revenue forecasting easier for your campaigns.
What content drives conversions for ExpressVPN?
Emphasize streaming unblocking, high-speed performance, and ease of use. Speed and reliability-themed reviews and how-to guides often convert well.
What does IPVanish offer affiliates?
IPVanish typically provides a straightforward 50% commission across plan types, backed by strong tier-1 speeds. It’s a solid choice if you target performance-focused users.
What attribution and approval rules does IPVanish follow?
You should expect around a 45-day cookie and post-refund validation before commissions are approved, so plan cash flow accordingly.
How can you benefit from promoting Avast SecureLine?
You’ll leverage a trusted cybersecurity brand name, which boosts trust and conversions. Their tiered commissions fit content sites and comparison platforms well.
What are PureVPN’s standout affiliate features?
PureVPN often offers 100% on monthly sales plus lifetime recurring on longer plans, a large server network, and long cookie durations—sometimes up to 90 days—helping you capture late conversions.
How does PureVPN handle payouts and audiences?
They pay monthly via PayPal or wire transfer with clear thresholds. Best-fit audiences include privacy seekers and long-term subscribers who prefer multi-year savings.
What makes CyberGhost a high-converting option?
CyberGhost combines a large server footprint, strong privacy stance, and frequent promotions. Affiliates benefit from long cookie windows and generous first-sale commissions.
Who should promote TunnelBear and why?
TunnelBear suits mobile-first users, students, and travelers. With simple 50% commissions and fast payouts, it’s ideal for social and mobile campaigns.
What does Private Internet Access (PIA) offer for promoters?
PIA positions strongly on no-logs policy and extensive server coverage. Commissions can reach up to 33% with robust creative resources for privacy-focused content.
How should you choose the best service to promote?
Match product strengths to your audience: streaming and speed for media-focused readers, privacy and no-logs for security-conscious users, and value/pricing for budget shoppers. Test multiple brands and track conversion and retention to find the most profitable fit.
