FCRA Registration

FCRA Registration

If your NGO plans to receive funds, grants, or donations from foreign individuals, foundations, or organizations, you must comply with the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). Without FCRA approval, accepting foreign contributions is illegal — even if the purpose is charitable. Proper registration safeguards your organization and reassures global donors.

What is FCRA Registration?

A mandatory approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) that allows eligible trusts, societies, and Section 8 companies to legally receive foreign contributions. It ensures transparency, accountability, and responsible utilization of international funding.

Why NGOs need FCRA

  • Legal eligibility to receive foreign donations

  • Increased credibility with international donors and institutions

  • Smooth compliance during audits, CSR partnerships, and due diligence

  • Essential for long-term, sustained foreign funding

  • Builds trust through regulated reporting and governance

Who can apply?

  • Public charitable trusts

  • Registered societies

  • Section 8 companies working for social welfare

Eligibility usually requires:

  • Minimum 3 years of existence

  • Proven track record of charitable activities

  • Utilization of at least ₹10 lakh in core charitable work (excluding admin expenses)

New NGOs may apply for Prior Permission, if they have a confirmed foreign donor and specific project.

What we assist with

  • Eligibility check and compliance review

  • Guidance on Prior Permission vs Full Registration

  • Drafting project reports, activity summaries, and utilization records

  • Preparing and filing Form FC-3A/FC-3B

  • Bank account setup in designated SBI New Delhi Main Branch

  • Replying to MHA queries and follow-up assistance

  • Post-registration compliance, renewals, and FC-4 annual returns

Documents generally required

  • Trust Deed / MoA, AoA, Registration Certificate

  • PAN of the NGO

  • Financial statements for last 3 years

  • Detailed activity, impact, and utilization reports

  • Trustee/Director KYC, ID, and contact details

  • Commitment letter from foreign donor (for Prior Permission)

  • Proposed project, budget, and execution plan

Our process

  1. Understand organization structure, activities, and funding needs

  2. Review eligibility and documentation

  3. Prepare application, annexures, declarations, and attachments

  4. File request online with MHA and track progress

  5. Support clarifications, approval, and operational compliance

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does approval take?

Typically 2–6 months, depending on documentation and MHA review.

 

2. Can a newly formed NGO apply?

Yes, but only through Prior Permission, not full registration.

 

3. Do we need a special bank account?

Yes — the primary FCRA account must be opened in SBI, New Delhi Main Branch.

 

4. Is renewal required?

Yes — FCRA registration is valid for 5 years and must be renewed before expiry.

 

5. Can foreign cash donations be accepted?

No. Contributions must come through banking channels.