If you’ve ever been unsure whether or not you need to pay the TV licence, Virgin Media has just released a very handy guide in a bid to cut down on the “confusion”. In advice that has just been posted on its website, the TV and broadband provider says the £169.50 yearly fee must be paid by anyone who watches or records any live TV.
Those using BBC iPlayer – on TVs or other devices – also need to stump up for a licence. That includes whether watching live content or tuning in via catch-up.
“Let’s cut through the confusion,” Virgin Media said.
“In 2025, a TV licence is legally required in the UK if you watch or record live TV on any channel or use BBC iPlayer – whether that’s live, or on catch-up.
“It doesn’t matter what you’re watching on, TV, laptop or mobile, the same rule applies.”
So, the advice is clear, all UK homes must legally pay up if they are enjoying EastEnders, Coronation Street, live sport and films being broadcast on terrestrial channels. However, as Virgin explains, there is a way to avoid paying.
Those simply streaming content via services such as Netflix, YouTube, Disney+ and Prime Video using the web don’t need a TV licence.
The only thing to be aware of is watching any live content via these players – such as sporting events – as this then means a fee MUST be paid.
“Can you skip a TV licence if you only stream?,” Virgin asked.
“The good news is you don’t need a TV licence to stream on-demand content from platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+. So, if you’re not watching live broadcasts or using BBC iPlayer, you might be able to ditch your licence altogether.
“That’s where Virgin Media comes in. You can stream your favourite shows, binge YouTube, and chill with Netflix – all without needing a TV licence (just don’t hit that “Live TV” button).”
Finally, to help consumers further, Virgin also has a handy chart, see below, which offers a quick guide to what you can and can’t do.
Along with Virgin Media, the licence fee website also breaks down the rules.
Here’s what the service says. “You can cancel your licence and may be eligible for a refund if, before your licence expires, you won’t be: watching TV on any channel, like BBC, ITV, Channel 4, U&Dave and international channels. Watching TV on pay TV services, like Sky, Virgin Media and EE TV. Watching live TV on streaming services, like YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video.
It’s worth being very careful before scrapping your licence fee, as anyone caught flouting the rules can be fined up to £1,000 and get a criminal record.