UK warns against satellite phones in updated India travel advisory

The United Kingdom's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advisory for India, warning British nationals against carrying or using satellite phones without a valid licence. The revised “Safety and Security” section emphasizes that such actions could lead to arrests or detention in India.

The FCDO highlighted that British citizens have been penalized for bringing satellite phones and other satellite-enabled devices into the country without authorization. It also noted that additional permissions might be required for equipment like listening devices, radio transmitters, powerful cameras, or binoculars.

Travelers are advised to contact the Indian Department of Telecommunication for licensing and the High Commission of India in London for further guidance on these regulations.


The advisory states, "It is illegal to possess and operate satellite phones in India without a licence. British nationals have been arrested or detained for bringing satellite phones and other satellite-enabled navigational devices into the country without prior permission."

This advisory serves as guidance to help travelers make informed decisions. Overlooking such warnings could potentially invalidate travel insurance, though the FCDO clarified it is not a government regulation.

Other travel advice for India remains unchanged, including a warning against travel within 10 kilometers of the India-Pakistan border, except for the Wagah border crossing. Advisory restrictions also remain for the Kashmir and Manipur regions.

The FCDO's update underscores the importance of understanding and complying with India's regulations to avoid complications during travel.