Why British TV?
British TV has an enviable reputation across the world. Many expats cite BBC programmes as one of the things they miss most when living abroad. Now, thanks to satellite, you can enjoy exactly the same programmes you received before leaving the UK, even if it is no longer your home.

What advantages?
UK broadcasters work to the highest standards, both artistically and technically. The programmes have high production values and will frequently be transmitted in widescreen. There are now more than 30 high definition channels available from the BBC, ITV, Channel Four, Five and Sky
Is it legal?
Strictly speaking, Sky are not allowed to sell subscriptions to those outside the UK. In practice, however, Sky are well aware that huge numbers (up to 1 million) of their customers are living in mainland Europe. So long as you don't phone Sky's customer services from Spain, (or order anything from their website- they will know your computer is out of the UK) you are likely to enjoy its programming for many years to come. Under EU legislation, it is legal to watch the BBC, ITV, Channel Four and Five anywhere these channels can be received.
What do I need?
A satellite receiver, either free to air (FTA, FTA HD) or Sky digital. FTA boxes will receive only free channels such as the BBC, ITV, Sky News and a number of others such as CNN. All other channels on the Sky system are encoded, and need an active viewing card inside a Sky receiver. Sky has the big advantage of its own Sky Guide, listing programming up to one week ahead. In addition Sky Plus and Sky HD receivers can be supplied in Madrid. Subscription to Sky channels starts at £16 per month, up to £58.00 per month for a Subscription including Sky Sports and Sky Movies in HD.
You will also need a satellite dish. For reception of Sky channels only, a 55 or 60cm dish is suitable, much the same size as in the UK. Note that this size will not receive BBC, ITV or Channel Four. For BBC One and ITV, a 1.2 metre dish will give adequate reception for most of the day. BBC2, News 24, CBeebies and CBBC will only be viewable in the mornings, no later than 1pm, and sometimes disappearing earlier, depending on location. For all BBC channels, all day, a 1.8 metre dish should be installed, if you have the room (it is large). Only a 1.8m will give some margin against rainfall, the smaller size will suffer if the weather is wet.
Can you arrange subscriptions?
Yes.
I live in an apartment block. Do I need permission to put a dish on the roof?
Usually, yes. You should ask the president of the communidad, who will usually give permission, in writing. You should allow plenty of time to obtain this. If there are too many dishes on the roof already, or if it is dangerous to install one, it is often possible to place a dish on a balcony or terrace. This can be done without fixing anything permanent into the structure of the building.
When I had my box installed in the UK, a phone line was attached. What do I need in Spain?
A phone line is not needed. You should not bring to Spain a Sky box that was installed by Sky in the UK less than one year ago, as you will have agreed a contract to have the line attached for twelve months. If you disconnect the box before this time, Sky will charge you extra. This also applies to the special offers on the Sky website.