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FCRA Registration is mandatory for NGOs, trusts, and societies to receive foreign contributions. Ensure Transparency, Legality, and Proper Use of funds.

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What is FCRA Registration?

FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) registration is a mandatory legal requirement for NGOs, trusts, and charitable organizations in India that seek to receive foreign donations. It ensures transparency, accountability, and compliance with government regulations while preventing misuse of foreign funds. Without FCRA approval, organizations cannot legally accept international contributions, making it essential for global fundraising and sustained operations.

Understanding the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA)

The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) is a legal framework enacted by the Indian government to regulate the acceptance and utilization of foreign contributions by NGOs, trusts, and charitable organizations. Enforced by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), it ensures that foreign funds are used for legitimate and ethical purposes while maintaining national security and transparency.

Regulate Foreign Contributions

Ensures that foreign funds are used for lawful and constructive purposes.

Prevent Misuse of Funds

Avoids financial irregularities and prevents misuse of foreign donations.

Ensure National Security

Prevents foreign influence in political, religious, and social matters.

Promote Transparency

Mandates proper financial reporting and compliance with government regulations.

Why is FCRA Registration Mandatory?

FCRA registration is mandatory for any non-profit organization, trust, society, or Section 8 company that wishes to receive foreign donations for charitable, educational, religious, or social work purposes. Without this registration, an organization cannot legally accept foreign contributions, limiting its ability to raise funds from global donors.

1

Legal Authorization

Ensures NGOs can accept foreign funds lawfully without legal repercussions.

2

Credibility & Trust

Increases donor confidence and helps attract more international funding.

3

Government & International Grants

Essential for organizations seeking global aid and government-backed funding programs.

4

Financial Transparency

Ensures that funds are utilized for the intended purposes with periodic reporting.

5

Avoids Legal Penalties

NGOs receiving foreign funds without registration may face legal action, fines, or cancellation of operations.

FCRA Registration Mandatory for NGOs and Charitable Organizations

Who Needs FCRA Registration?

Eligibility & Applicability

Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) registration is mandatory for organizations in India that intend to receive foreign contributions for charitable, social, educational, religious, or economic purposes. The registration ensures that foreign funds are used transparently and in compliance with government regulations.

Get registered with expert assistance from Udyog Suvidha Kendra for a smooth process

Organizations Required to Obtain FCRA Registration

The following types of organizations are eligible for FCRA registration:

1

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Social welfare organizations working in areas like education, healthcare, women's empowerment, and rural development.

2

Trusts & Societies

Registered charitable trusts and societies involved in philanthropic activities.

3

Section 8 Companies

Non-profit organizations incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013, working for public welfare.

4

Educational & Research Institutions

Universities, research foundations, and academic institutions receiving foreign grants for educational or research purposes.

5

Religious Organizations

Churches, mosques, temples, and spiritual groups accepting foreign donations for religious and charitable activities.

6

Associations & Welfare Groups

Organizations involved in cultural, social, or environmental activities benefiting the public.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for FCRA registration, an organization must be in operation for at least three years and have spent a minimum of ₹10 lakh on its activities, excluding administrative expenses.

Conditions & Restrictions for Receiving Foreign Donations

While FCRA registration allows organizations to accept foreign contributions, certain conditions and restrictions apply:

Conditions

Funds must be used only for the stated charitable or public welfare objectives mentioned in the FCRA application.

The organization must maintain proper financial records and submit annual returns to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Foreign contributions must be received only in a designated FCRA bank account at a bank specified by the RBI.

Restrictions

Government Employees & Political Entities: Political parties, legislators, election candidates, judges, and government employees cannot receive foreign contributions.

Organizations with Pending Legal Issues: Entities facing legal proceedings related to financial fraud or national security concerns may be denied registration.

Unauthorized Use of Funds: If an NGO misuses foreign contributions, the registration can be canceled, and legal action may be taken.

Important Note

FCRA compliance is essential for NGOs and other non-profits seeking foreign funding without legal risks. By adhering to the rules and conditions, organizations can maintain their eligibility, credibility, and uninterrupted funding access.

Documents Required for FCRA Registration

To successfully apply for FCRA registration, organizations must submit the following essential documents:

1. Registration Certificate

A certified copy proving the organization's legal registration under applicable laws like the Societies Registration Act, Indian Trusts Act, or Companies Act.

2. Governing Documents

Includes the Memorandum of Association (MoA), Articles of Association (AoA), or Trust Deed outlining the entity's objectives and governance structure.

3. Activity Reports

A record of the organization's work over the past three years, highlighting its objectives, impact, and alignment with FCRA eligibility requirements.

4. Financial Statements

Audited reports for the last three years, including balance sheets and income-expenditure statements, ensuring financial transparency and credibility.

5. Designated FCRA Bank Account

Proof of an exclusive bank account for receiving foreign contributions, with account number, IFSC code, and branch details.

6. PAN Card of the Organization

A copy of the organization's Permanent Account Number (PAN) to verify its tax identity and compliance with financial regulations.

7. KYC of Key Members

Identification and address proofs (Aadhaar, passport, or voter ID) of trustees, directors, or governing body members for authentication.

8. Board Resolution

A formally passed resolution from the governing body, authorizing the organization to apply for FCRA registration and manage foreign contributions.

9. Declaration & Undertaking

A self-declaration ensuring compliance with FCRA rules, confirming that foreign funds will be utilized only for approved activities.

STEP-BY-STEP

Step-by-Step Process for FCRA Registration

FCRA registration is a crucial legal requirement for NGOs and charitable organizations seeking foreign funding. Follow these steps to complete the process:

1

Create an Account on the FCRA Portal

Visit the official FCRA website and register your organization by creating an account. You'll need basic details like organization name, email, and mobile number.

2

Gather Required Documents

Prepare all necessary documents, including registration certificates, financial statements, activity reports, board resolutions, and KYC documents of key members.

3

Choose the Type of Registration

Select between Normal Registration (for organizations with a minimum 3-year track record) or Prior Permission (for new organizations seeking specific foreign contributions).

4

Fill Out the FCRA Application Form (FC-3A/FC-3B)

Complete the online application (Form FC-3A for Normal Registration or Form FC-3B for Prior Permission) with accurate details about your organization's activities, objectives, and funding sources.

5

Submit the Application & Pay Fees

Pay the applicable government processing fee online and submit the filled application along with supporting documents.

6

Scrutiny & Verification by Authorities

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) reviews your application, conducts background verification, and may request additional details or clarifications if needed.

7

Inspection by Local Authorities (If Required)

In some cases, local government agencies may visit your organization's office to verify its activities and compliance with FCRA norms.

8

Approval & Issuance of FCRA Certificate

If all conditions are met, the MHA grants FCRA registration, and your organization receives the official FCRA certificate, valid for five years.

9

Open a Designated FCRA Bank Account

Once registered, open a dedicated FCRA bank account in a State Bank of India (SBI) branch in Delhi to receive foreign contributions.

Maintain Compliance & File Annual Returns

After registration, NGOs must submit annual returns (Form FC-4) to report foreign contributions, expenditures, and activities as per FCRA regulations. Regular compliance ensures uninterrupted access to foreign funding.

Why Choose Us?

Error-Free Process

We ensure a hassle-free FCRA registration process with expert guidance, accurate documentation, and compliance support to prevent errors and delays, making your approval process smooth and efficient.

Compliance Support

Our experts provide complete assistance in FCRA compliance, annual reporting, and fund management, ensuring your NGO meets all legal obligations and avoids penalties.

End-to-End Support for Foreign Fund Management

We help NGOs set up FCRA-compliant bank accounts, manage fund utilization, and maintain transparency in foreign contributions, ensuring seamless and legal financial operations.

Frequently Asked Questions