Anyone in UK watching World Cup issued strict TV warning over rule that could land them hefty fine

The World Cup kicks off tonight with the opening ceremony in Mexico, and if you're planning to watch, be sure not to get yourself in trouble.

This year's tournament will feature 48 teams, 104 matches, and 1,248 players, and it all starts tonight as Mexico host South Africa at the Azteca Stadium.

Shakira and Burna Boy are headlining the Mexico opening ceremony, with Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette for the Canadian party tomorrow (12 June) and Katy Perry for the opening ceremony in the United States (12 June).

Whether you're wanting to watch the performances on TV or want to follow your favourite team's progress in the tournament, be sure not to fall foul of the rules.

It's easy to get wrapped up in the excitement of it all and celebrating national pride, but it's not worth a potential hefty fine, if you've not sorted out your paperwork first.

Don't get caught out as you tune in to the World Cup this summer (Getty Stock)

If you're watching any of the matches as they're broadcast on any channel, including the BBC iPlayer, you need a TV licence.

Don't have one yet? They'll set you back £180 annually.

If it sounds steep, that's nothing compared to the potential fine of £1,000 if you're caught watching without one.

You can pay the £180 in full, or spread it over monthly payments.

The license becomes active as soon as you purchase it, and you'll be covered for anything you watch straight away.

The Licensing Agency notes: "Nothing beats the excitement of watching live football - from Premier League drama to World Cup showdowns and edge‑of‑your‑seat cup finals. If you want the full experience, you need to watch it live."

What do you need a TV Licence for?

If you watch any of the below, you need to purchase a TV licence to legally watch, record and download on any device:

• All live TV channels
• Pay TV services like Sky
• Live TV on streaming services like YouTube
• Everything on BBC iPlayer

Watching without a licence could see you being prosecuted (Getty Stock/Stephen Barnes)

What happens if you don't have a TV licence?

If you're discovered watching the World Cup live or any other programmes or channels as they're broadcast without a TV licence, you could find yourself receiving a visit from a TV Licence Officer.

The Licensing Agency says prosecution is a 'last resort', but if you are taken to court and found guilty you could face a maximum fine of up to £1,000, or up to £2,000 if you're based in Guernsey.

In England or Wales you may also have to face the prosecution costs of around £120.

If you are a student living away from home in term time, you may still be covered by your parents' TV licence.

For this rule to apply, you can only watch TV on devices that aren't plugged into the mains at their term-time address, for example on a laptops, mobile phone or tablet.

Those who are registered blind or severely sight impaired and can provide proof may qualify for a 50% reduction on their TV licence.

If you have a black and white television, you can obtain a specific black and white TV licence for £58.50 annually.

Those aged 75 or over who receive Pension Credit are entitled to a free TV licence.