Hello,
Is there a way to automate to immediately turn on the VPN while opening a specific app, then when the specific app closes to turn off the VPN?
I could not see the automation options for this.
Shortcuts app, Automation tab.
Set one for when your app opens and one for close. Run immediately.
New blank automation. Search for the VPN action ‘Set VPN’ and configure it as appropriate for the automation (open → connect, close → disconnect).
It would be worth checking that it is connected before doing anything in the app though.
Wouldn’t doing this even if it works be quite complicated and clunky and highly risking leaking your IP? but maybe all you need the VPN for is to bypass geo lock streaming content and leaking the IP isn’t that much of an issue.
Thank you I was missing the blank automation part!
why this doesn’t work for me 
I think if it immediately turns on the VPN, by the time the app connects to internet would be ok.
However, you make a good point. This is probably better as a backup in case someone forgets to turn on their vpn
It’s tough to say because sometimes the Apple APIs got bugs that can affect privacy, Proton Tech among others found some that may not have all gotten fixed. Would be nice if Apple open source the VPN API so that devs with experience could help contribute/develop it. I just thought Shortcuts could add more complexity to the situation. Even good VPN developers are at the mercy of what Apple provides.