Service Overview & Who Needs It
For NGOs aiming to scale their impact through international grants, FCRA Registration is non-negotiable. The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), governed by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), mandates strict compliance for any Indian NGO receiving foreign funds. Whether you’re a 3-year-old trust spending ₹15 Lakhs annually on charitable activities or a new NGO with a foreign donor for a specific project, FCRA compliance is your gateway to global funding. This service is critical for NGOs in sectors like education, healthcare, and environmental conservation that rely on international grants to amplify their reach.
Step-by-Step Execution Plan
Step 1: Eligibility Assessment
Before applying, ensure your NGO meets the FCRA eligibility criteria:
- Regular Registration: 3+ years of operation with ₹15 Lakhs spent on core activities (excluding admin costs)
- Prior Permission: New NGOs with a foreign donor commitment for a specific project
Step 2: Mandatory Prerequisites
Secure these before applying:
- NGO Darpan ID: Registration on NITI Aayog’s portal
- CSR-1 Registration: For Section 8 Companies
- SBI FCRA Account: Opened at SBI Main Branch, New Delhi
Step 3: Document Preparation
Compile these FCRA documents:
- Trust Deed/Society Registration Certificate
- 3-Year Activity & Expenditure Reports
- Audited Financial Statements
- PAN & 12A Certificates
- Donor Commitment Letter (for Prior Permission)
Step 4: Online Application Filing
Submit FCRA Registration online via the MHA portal:
- Create an account on fcraonline.nic.in
- Fill Form FC-3A (Regular) or FC-3B (Prior Permission)
- Upload digitally signed documents
- Pay the ₹20,000 application fee
Step 5: Post-Submission Compliance
After submission:
- Cooperate with Intelligence Bureau (IB) verification
- Maintain separate FCRA accounting records
- Ensure admin expenses don’t exceed 20%
Key Considerations & Best Practices
- Zero-Error Documentation: A single mistake in trustee details can lead to rejection
- SBI Account Timing: Open the FCRA account before application submission
- Annual Compliance: File FC-4 returns by December 31st annually
- Renewal Buffer: Apply for renewal 6 months before expiry
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can foreign nationals be NGO trustees?
A: While allowed, it increases scrutiny and often leads to rejection unless specific MHA waivers are met.
Q: What’s the FCRA processing time?
A: 4-6 months including IB verification and MHA approval.
Q: Can FCRA funds be transferred to other NGOs?
A: No, sub-granting is strictly prohibited under the 2020 amendment.
Consultation Call-To-Action
Navigating FCRA compliance requires precision. Schedule a free consultation with our NGO experts to ensure your application is flawless from Day 1. We handle everything from Darpan registration to SBI account setup, so you can focus on your mission.
