NETFLIX users in the UK could be faced with fines of up to £1,000 for watching a new show this weekend.
An update to the streaming platform means viewers will be required to pay an additional fee to watch certain programmes.
Netflix has recently branched into showing live content, which will have a major effect on UK viewers.
UK households are legally required to have a TV licence when watching or recording live TV, regardless of what channel it is on.
However, if you do not watch or record live television, or use BBC iPlayer, then you do not need a TV licence.
Previously, this has meant that those who solely watch television through Netflix or other streaming platforms do not need a TV licence.
However, with the new Netflix live streaming feature, which includes the upcoming Tudum Live event this weekend, that could now change.
UK viewers wishing to watch the live event will require a TV licence to do so legally.
Legal experts previously warned about this issue when Netflix first began live streaming content in 2023.
Now, the BBC has confirmed to Cord Busters that viewers will be required to purchase a TV Licence if they plan to watch live events on Netflix.
However, the majority of Netflix’s content remains exempt from the TV licence fee, so long as it is not broadcast live.
Daniel McAfee, Head of Legal Operations at Lawhive, confirmed: “Under UK lawany live television broadcast requires a valid TV Licence, regardless of the streaming platform.”
Netflix users who violate the licensing law could face fines of up to £1,000.
While you cannot be imprisoned for evading the TV licence, court-imposed fines resulting from non-payment could see you facing jail time.
Daniel advised viewers to “stay informed on licensing changes as streaming platforms expand live broadcast offerings.”
While enforcement officers for the licence can carry out checks to ensure compliance, occupiers have “no legal obligation” to let them into their home.
The licence fee raises around £3.7 billion a year which is around 65 per cent of the corporation’s funding.
Do I need a TV licence?
IF you want to watch or record live TV then, yes, you need a licence.
This includes recording it live and watching it later.
Live TV includes all programmes on any channel, including soaps, series, documentaries and even movies.
In addition, the rules apply even if you don’t watch the shows on an actual TV – for example, if you watch programmes that are being broadcast live on a PC, laptop, tablet or phone.
A colour TV licence currently costs £169.50 a year. A licence for watching a black and white TV costs £57.
You’ll need to apply for a free licence on the TV licensing website or call 0300 790 6117.
Around 80 per cent of homes pay the fee but evasion is up to more than 10 per cent.
If you are over 75 and receive Pension Credit, or live with a partner who does, you are entitled to a free TV Licence.
Those living in care homes or sheltered accommodation who are retired and over 60, or disabled, can grab their licence for just £7.50.
A 50 per cent discount is offered to anyone who is registered blind or lives with someone who is.
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