The UK government has updated its travel advisory for India, cautioning British nationals against carrying or operating satellite phones in the country without proper licensing. The updated guidance, issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) on Tuesday, highlights that possessing or operating such devices without a licence is illegal and has led to arrests and detentions of British travelers in the past.
The advisory specifies that prior permission from India’s Department of Telecommunication is mandatory for satellite phones, listening devices, and high-powered equipment such as cameras, binoculars, or radio transmitters. Travelers are encouraged to contact the High Commission of India in London for guidance before bringing such items into the country.
“It is illegal to possess and operate satellite phones in India without a licence. British nationals have been arrested or detained for bringing such devices into the country without prior permission,” the FCDO stated.
While the advisory serves as a cautionary guide rather than a regulatory mandate, ignoring the advice may impact travel insurance claims.
The broader advisory remains unchanged, maintaining warnings against travel within 10km of the India-Pakistan border (except at Wagah), and reiterating travel restrictions for the Kashmir and Manipur regions due to safety concerns.
