FCRA / FEMA Registration
Enable your NGO to receive foreign donations legally under FCRA. Ensure all foreign exchange transactions comply with FEMA regulations.
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What are FCRA and FEMA?
FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010) is a central act that regulates the acceptance and utilization of foreign contributions by NGOs, associations, and individuals. Any NGO wishing to receive donations from foreign sources must obtain FCRA registration from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999) governs all foreign exchange transactions in India — imports, exports, remittances, and foreign investments. Businesses and individuals must comply with FEMA rules for any transaction involving foreign currency.
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Why FCRA & FEMA Compliance Matters
Legal Foreign Funding
Without FCRA, receiving any foreign donation — even small amounts — is a criminal offense.
Unlock International Grants
FCRA opens access to international foundations, embassies, and bilateral aid programs.
FEMA Business Compliance
Businesses must comply with FEMA for import payments, export proceeds, and FDI transactions.
Avoid Heavy Penalties
FCRA violations carry imprisonment up to 5 years; FEMA violations carry fines up to 3x the amount.
Eligibility & Requirements
How to Apply for FCRA Registration
FCRA registration is applied online through the FCRA portal (fcraonline.nic.in) of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
1Step 1: Register on DARPAN Portal
Mandatory to first register on the NITI Aayog DARPAN portal and obtain a Unique ID before FCRA application.
2Step 2: Open SBI FCRA Account
Open a dedicated FCRA account at SBI main branch, New Delhi (this is mandatory for all FCRA registrations post-2020).
3Step 3: Prepare FCRA Application (Form FC-3)
Fill Form FC-3A (new registration) on the FCRA portal with NGO details, activities, track record, and bank details.
4Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Attach registration certificate, audited accounts, 12A/80G certificates, annual reports, and police verification forms.
5Step 5: MHA Background Verification
MHA conducts thorough background verification of the NGO, trustees, and activities. Intelligence Bureau may also conduct a check.
6Step 6: FCRA Registration Certificate
MHA issues FCRA Registration Certificate valid for 5 years, renewable before expiry.
FCRA registration is a thorough process taking 60–90 days or more. MHA scrutinizes applications very carefully.
Documents Required
NGO Documents
- Registration Certificate
- 12A and 80G certificates
- DARPAN Unique ID
- Audited accounts (last 3 years)
Activity Proof
- Annual activity reports
- Expenditure on charitable activities (last 3 years)
- Photographs of activities
Bank & Office
- SBI FCRA account details
- Office address proof
- PAN of NGO and key trustees
Post-Registration Compliance
Annual FC-4 Return
File Form FC-4 (annual FCRA return) within 9 months of financial year end on the FCRA portal.
5-Year Renewal
FCRA registration must be renewed (Form FC-3C) at least 6 months before expiry.
Separate FCRA Account
All foreign contributions must be received only in the designated SBI FCRA bank account — mixing with other accounts is prohibited.
Utilization Reporting
All foreign funds must be utilized for the stated objectives and reported in FC-4. Prior permission required for transfer to other organizations.
Common Questions
Everything you need to know
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