WPML Redirect Based on IP Country 2.1

By default, WPML does not support redirection based on IP address. Its built-in "Browser Language Redirect" only detects the language settings of the user's browser (e.g., if a user’s Chrome is set to Spanish, they are sent to the /es/ version), regardless of where they are physically located.

To redirect users based on their actual country (GeoIP), you must use a compatible third-party plugin.

## Top Recommended Plugins for WPML IP Redirects

The following plugins are officially recognized by WPML as compatible for geolocation-based routing:

Plugin

Type

Best For

WPML Redirect Based on IP Country

Premium

Simplicity. Shows a "Hello [Country]" popup or redirects instantly.

GeotargetingWP PRO

Premium

Advanced Users. Supports complex logic, AJAX (caching compatible), and specific regions.

IP2Location Redirection

Free/Pro

Cost-Effective. A lightweight solution that uses the MaxMind or IP2Location database.

Advanced GeoIP Redirect

Free/Pro

Modern Features. Includes device-based rules (mobile vs. desktop) and debug logs.

## Why Doesn't WPML Do This Built-in?

WPML emphasizes Browser Language because it is often a better indicator of a user's preference. For example:

The "Holiday" Problem: If an English-speaking tourist is in Spain, an IP-based redirect would force them to see the Spanish site, which is a poor user experience.

Accuracy: Browser settings reflect the user's chosen language, whereas IP databases can sometimes be inaccurate or blocked by VPNs.

## Crucial Conflict: Caching

If you use a caching plugin (like WP Rocket, LiteSpeed, or SiteGround Optimizer) or a server-level cache (like Varnish), GeoIP redirects will often fail.

The Problem: The server caches the first version of the page it generates. If the first visitor is from Germany, the server caches the German version and serves it to the next visitor, even if they are from the USA.

The Solution: Use a plugin that supports AJAX-based redirection (like GeotargetingWP PRO). This allows the page to load from the cache first, and then a small script checks the IP and redirects the user after the page loads.

## How to Set It Up (General Steps)

Disable WPML's Default Redirect: Go to WPML > Languages > Browser language redirect and select "Disable browser language redirect" to avoid conflicts.

Install Your Chosen Plugin: For example, IP2Location Redirection.

Download the Database: Most plugins require you to download a GeoIP .bin file (like the free MaxMind GeoLite2) to your server so it can look up country codes.

Create a Rule:

Country: United Kingdom

Destination: https://yourdomain.com/en/

WPML Language Code: en

Test with a VPN: Use a VPN service to visit your site from different countries to verify the redirects are working.

Would you like me to help you decide which plugin is best based on your specific caching setup (e.g., Cloudflare or WP Rocket)?