iPadOS supports VPNs natively through the Settings app and via App Store apps. The experience is essentially identical to iPhone VPN use, since iPadOS and iOS share the same VPN framework. Most major VPN providers have App Store apps that work on both iPhone and iPad.
How VPN Works on iPad
VPN apps from the App Store install a VPN configuration profile in Settings (Settings > General > VPN & Device Management > VPN). When you connect, all device traffic routes through the VPN tunnel. Unlike desktop VPNs, iPad VPNs cannot selectively route per-app traffic (no split tunneling at the per-app level, though some providers implement workarounds).
Best VPNs for iPad
NordVPN: excellent iPad app with intuitive map interface, fast WireGuard connections, kill switch available. Works well for streaming Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Rated best overall for iPad. ExpressVPN: clean iPad app, reliable on all major streaming platforms, consistent speeds on Lightway protocol. More expensive than NordVPN but performance is excellent. Surfshark: the most affordable option with unlimited device connections (one subscription covers all your Apple devices). Good speeds, less polished iPad app but fully functional. ProtonVPN: best for privacy-focused users, has a solid iPad app, the free tier is usable (no logs, no ads, 1 device). Slowest of the group on the free plan.
Split Tunneling on iPad
Native per-app split tunneling is not available on iPadOS (this is an Apple limitation, not a VPN issue). Some VPNs (ExpressVPN, NordVPN) work around this with custom implementations in their iOS apps but these are limited compared to desktop options. If you need per-app routing (e.g., only route Safari through the VPN but not Apple Music), check if your VPN provider's iPad app specifically supports this.
Battery Drain
VPN use on iPad increases battery consumption by 10-20% due to encryption processing. WireGuard-based VPNs (NordVPN, Surfshark, ProtonVPN) are more battery-efficient than OpenVPN-based ones. If battery life is a concern, connect the VPN only when you need it rather than leaving it always on.