🌐 FCRA Registration – Overview

The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) governs the acceptance and use of foreign contributions and donations in India. It ensures that such contributions do not affect the nation’s sovereignty, integrity, or democratic functioning.

Organizations like NGOs, charities, and non-profit entities must register under FCRA to legally receive foreign funds. This registration process is managed by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) through a prior authorization system.

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✅ Benefits of FCRA Registration

1. Foreign Investment: Enables consistent support and donations from foreign entities.
2. Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to legal guidelines for foreign funding.
3. Donation Acceptance: Legally receive foreign contributions from international donors.
4. Government Support: Access to various government schemes and credibility.
5. Social Recognition: Boosts credibility and reputation for NGOs and non-profits.

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🏛 Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for FCRA registration:

• Primary Purpose: Must be engaged in charitable, educational, cultural, or social service without profit motives.
• Operational Track Record: Minimum 3 years of operation before applying.
• Financial History:
  • Must have received at least Rs. 10 lakhs in donations over the last 3 years (excluding administrative costs).
  • Must submit audited financial statements for the last 3 financial years.
• Legal Registration:
  • Registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, Indian Trusts Act, 1882, or Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013.

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📑 Required Documents

1. Registration Certificate (Incorporation/Trust)
2. PAN Card of the organization
3. Memorandum of Association (MoA) / Trust Deed
4. Section 12AB Certificate (Income Tax Act)
5. Photograph/Impression of chief functionary
6. Governing Body Resolutions
7. Detailed Activity Report (last 3 years)
8. Audited Financial Statements

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🖥 Procedure to Apply for FCRA Registration

1. Visit the official FCRA website and click “Forms”.
2. Choose:
   • Form FC-3A for FCRA Registration
   • Form FC-3B for Prior Permission
3. Click “Apply Online” → Sign Up and create credentials.
4. Login using username/password and choose FCRA Registration.
5. Click “FC-3” to initiate a new application.
6. Fill in organization details.
7. Add Executive Committee details.
8. Upload all required PDF documents.
9. Make payment using available online options.

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📆 Validity and Renewal

• Validity: 5 years from the date of approval.
• Renewal: Must apply at least 12 months before expiry.
• Notification: Must notify relevant parties at least 6 months before expiry.

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⚠️ Non-Compliance Issues

Failure to comply with FCRA guidelines can lead to:

• Cancellation or suspension of registration
• Penalties or legal proceedings
• Blacklisting from receiving foreign funds

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🏁 Final Words

FCRA Registration plays a crucial role in:

• Facilitating legal foreign funding
• Expanding donor base and project reach
• Enhancing transparency and trust
• Building international collaborations

Organizations working for public welfare should consider registering under FCRA to scale their operations ethically and efficiently.

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