What is FCRA Registration?

Why Do NGOs Need FCRA License?

• Legal Authorization: Obtain legal permission to receive foreign contributions without any legal complications.
• Access to International Funding: Connect with global donors, international NGOs, and funding agencies.
• Enhanced Credibility: FCRA registration certificate builds trust among international donors and stakeholders.
• Greater Reach: Expand your NGO's operations and impact with foreign funding support.
• Compliance & Transparency: Ensure transparency and compliance with FCRA regulations and avoid legal issues.
• Tax Benefits: Donors can claim tax deductions on their contributions to FCRA-registered NGOs.

To apply for FCRA online registration, your organization must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• The organization must be registered as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company under Indian law.
• The organization must have been operational for at least 3 years (mandatory as per recent amendments).
• The organization must have spent a minimum of ₹10 lakhs on its stated objectives in the last 3 financial years.
• Must have a valid PAN and GST registration (if applicable).
• Must have audited financial statements for the last 3 years.
• Must have a dedicated bank account for receiving foreign contributions.
• Should not be involved in any activities that are against the public interest or national security.

There are two types of FCRA registration available for NGOs and Trusts:

1. FCRA Registration (Permanent)

This is the permanent FCRA license granted to NGOs and Trusts that meet all eligibility criteria. Once granted, the organization can receive foreign contributions without restrictions. The FCRA registration validity is 5 years, after which it needs to be renewed.

2. Prior Permission (One-Time)

If your NGO does not meet the eligibility criteria for permanent FCRA registration, you can apply for prior permission to receive foreign contributions for a specific project. Prior permission is valid for a single transaction or project and must be renewed for each new foreign contribution.

The FCRA registration process involves the following steps:

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

Ensure your NGO or Trust meets all the eligibility criteria, including 3 years of operation, ₹10 lakh expenditure, and audited financials.

Step 2: Open a Dedicated FCRA Bank Account

Open a separate bank account exclusively for receiving foreign contributions. Only a few banks like SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Axis Bank are authorized for FCRA accounts.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Gather all necessary documents, including registration certificate, MOA/AOA, financial statements, PAN, and audited accounts.

Step 4: Submit FCRA Application Online

Visit the official FCRA portal at fcraonline.nic.in and submit the application form (Form FC-3) along with required documents and fees.

Step 5: Verification and Approval

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) will verify your application. The process typically takes 90-120 days. If approved, you will receive your FCRA registration certificate.

To complete the FCRA online registration, you will need the following documents:

• Registration Certificate: Trust Deed, Society Registration Certificate, or Certificate of Incorporation (for Section 8 companies).
• MOA & AOA: Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association.
• PAN Card: Permanent Account Number of the organization.
• Audited Financial Statements: Last 3 years' financial statements audited by a Chartered Accountant.
• Bank Account Details: Proof of a dedicated bank account for FCRA transactions.
• List of Office Bearers: Names, addresses, and identity proofs of key members (President, Secretary, Treasurer).
• Activity Report: Detailed report of activities undertaken in the last 3 years.
• Income Tax Returns: Last 3 years' ITR filings.
• 12A and 80G Certificates: If applicable.
• Passport Size Photographs: Of all office bearers and members.

The FCRA registration fees include both government charges and professional service fees.

Government Fees

• Application Fee: There is no government fee for FCRA registration. However, there may be nominal charges for document attestation and notarization.

Professional Service Fees

At First Startup, we offer comprehensive FCRA registration services at competitive rates:

• Basic Package: ₹74,000 (Includes application preparation, document verification, and submission)
• Standard Package: ₹1,03,500 (Includes all basic services + compliance support for 1 year)
• Premium Package: ₹2,62,800 (Includes all standard services + annual compliance, GST filing, and ITR filing)

FCRA Registration Validity

Once granted, the FCRA registration certificate is valid for 5 years. Organizations must renew their FCRA license before expiry to continue receiving foreign contributions.

FCRA Renewal Process

To renew your FCRA registration, you must apply at least 6 months before the expiry date. The renewal process involves:

• Submitting Form FC-3 (Renewal Application)
• Updated financial statements and activity reports
• Compliance certificates
• Payment of renewal fees (if applicable)

FCRA renewal is a critical process that every registered NGO or Trust must complete before the expiry of their FCRA license. Here's how you can renew your FCRA registration:

Step 1: Check FCRA Expiry Date

Log in to the FCRA portal and check your FCRA registration number and expiry date.

Step 2: Prepare Renewal Documents

Gather updated financial statements, activity reports, ITR filings, and compliance certificates.

Step 3: Submit Renewal Application

Submit Form FC-3 (Renewal) online along with all supporting documents at least 6 months before expiry.

Step 4: Await Approval

The MHA will review your application and approve the renewal if all conditions are met. The renewal process typically takes 60-90 days.

At First Startup, we specialize in providing end-to-end FCRA registration services for NGOs, Trusts, and Societies. Here's why you should choose us:

• Expert Guidance: Our team has extensive experience in FCRA compliance and registration.
• 100% Online Process: Complete FCRA online registration from the comfort of your office.
• Fast Processing: We ensure your FCRA application is submitted quickly and accurately.
• Affordable Pricing: Competitive FCRA registration fees with transparent pricing.
• Post-Registration Support: We provide ongoing compliance support, including annual filings and FCRA renewal.
• High Success Rate: 98% approval rate for FCRA applications handled by our experts.