All services
Our benefits
Empowering your business with expert financial clarity — without the cost of a full-time CFO.
FCRA Registration for NGOs: A Complete Guide
FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) Registration is mandatory for any NGO (Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company) that intends to receive foreign donations, grants, or funding. Without an FCRA Certificate, an NGO cannot legally accept foreign contributions.
1. What is FCRA Registration?
- Applicable to: NGOs, Charitable Trusts, Societies, Section 8 Companies
- Purpose: Legal authorization to receive foreign donations
- Regulated by: Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India
2. Types of FCRA Registration:
Regular FCRA Registration (FC-3A):
- For NGOs with at least 3 years of operation
- Must have spent ₹15 lakhs+ on charitable activities in the last 3 years
- Validity: 5 years
Prior Permission (FC-3B):
- For newly established NGOs (less than 3 years old)
- Applies for specific foreign donations from a specific donor
- One-time approval for the particular grant
3. FCRA Compliance Requirements:
Annual Filing of Form FC-4 – Due by 31st December every year
Audited Financial Statements (Receipt & Payment Account, Balance Sheet)
FCRA Bank Account in SBI New Delhi (Mandatory for receiving foreign funds)
Intimation to MHA for Significant Changes (e.g., Change in Name, Address, Key Functionaries)
4. Documents Required for Section 12A Registration:
NGO Registration Certificate (Trust Deed/ MOA & AOA)- PAN Card of NGO
- Details of Board Members/Trustees (Aadhaar, PAN, Contact Details)
- Financial Statements & Audit Reports (Last 3 years, if applicable)
Details of Past Donations & Utilization of Funds
Projected Activities & Budget Plan for Foreign Contributions
5. How to Apply for FCRA Registration?
- Prepare Required Documents
- Submit Form FC-3A (Regular) or Form FC-3B (Prior Permission) Online
- Pay Application Fee Online
- Verification & Scrutiny by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
- Receive FCRA Registration Certificate (Valid for 5 years)
- Processing Time: 3-6 months
Why Choose
FILING365?
- End-to-End FCRA Registration Assistance
- FCRA Compliance & Annual Filing Support
- NGO Advisory & Foreign Grant Management
Want to register your NGO for FCRA? Contact us today! 