FCRA Registration refers to getting approval under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010.
It is mandatory for any NGO, trust, society, or Section 8 company in India that wants to receive foreign donations or contributions.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India, grants this registration.
There are two ways to receive foreign contributions:
- FCRA Registration (for entities with at least 3 years of existence and proven activities).
- Prior Permission (for new entities or those without 3 years’ track record).
Documents Required for FCRA Registration
- Certificate of Registration (of Trust/Society/Company).
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) / Trust Deed.
- PAN Card of the organization.
- Details of Key Functionaries (Board members) — Aadhaar, PAN, address proof, etc.
- Activity Report of the last 3 years.
- Financial Statements (Audited Balance Sheets, Income-Expenditure Statements, etc.) for last 3 years.
- Commitment Letters (if available) from foreign donors (for prior permission cases).
- Bank Account Details in the designated FCRA bank branch (currently SBI, New Delhi Main Branch).
- Affidavit/Declaration from the Chief Functionary regarding the compliance with FCRA conditions.
- Utilization Plan — explaining how the foreign contribution will be used.