Will UK Introduce New TV Licence for Streaming Services Only?

Do you love catching up on all the latest shows on BBC and BBC iPlayer? Well, get ready because the UK’s TV license fee is set to increase from £169.50 to £174.50 next month. It’s a bummer, we know, but after a two-year freeze, the fees are going up again in April to keep up with inflation.

With more and more households switching to streaming services, there’s been a significant 30 percent drop in license fee income over the past few years. To ensure the future of the BBC, the government is considering alternative ways to secure funding for the broadcaster. One of the options under discussion is the possibility of introducing a non-live streaming service license in the future.

So what does this mean for Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and Apple TV users? Well, it could mean that in addition to your subscription fees, you might also have to pay for a legal permit to watch your favorite shows. Already, if you watch live sports on certain streaming services, you need a TV license.

The Department for Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS) is exploring different options to support the BBC’s vital work. Minister Stephanie Peacock emphasized the government’s commitment to finding sustainable funding solutions for the BBC. The future funding of the BBC will be a part of the charter review process scheduled for 2027, which will include a public consultation.

For now, most streaming services are safe from additional licensing fees, but it’s always good to stay informed. And if you want to keep up with all the latest UK news and events, make sure to sign up for our free Time Out UK newsletter. Stay connected and stay informed about what’s happening across the country.