An NGO must obtain FCRA registration or prior permission from the Ministry of Home Affairs before receiving any foreign contribution. Registration generally requires at least three years of existence and a minimum spend on core activities; newer NGOs can seek prior permission for a specific donor and amount. All foreign funds must first be received in the designated FCRA account at SBI, New Delhi Main Branch.
Registration vs prior permission
| Route | Suits |
|---|---|
| Registration | NGOs with at least three years of activity and prescribed spending on core programmes |
| Prior permission | Newer NGOs with a commitment from a specific foreign donor for a specific project and amount |
Key conditions after the 2020 amendment
- Foreign contribution must first land in the FCRA account at SBI, New Delhi Main Branch; utilisation accounts can be opened elsewhere.
- Administrative expenses are capped at 20% of foreign contribution received.
- Foreign contribution cannot be transferred to other persons or organisations.
- Aadhaar or passport details of office bearers are required.
Application process
- Open the designated FCRA account at SBI, New Delhi Main Branch.
- Apply online on the FCRA portal with registration documents, activity reports and audited accounts.
- Pay the application fee.
- Field inquiry and security checks by agencies.
- Decision by the Ministry.
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Get expert help →Compliance and renewal
File the annual return in Form FC-4 with audited accounts, disclose foreign contributions received quarterly on the website where required, and apply for renewal well before the five-year validity ends.
Frequently asked questions
Can a newly registered NGO get FCRA registration?
Generally no. Registration usually requires at least three years of existence and prescribed spending. A new NGO can apply for prior permission if it has a specific commitment from a foreign donor.
Can FCRA funds be given to partner NGOs?
No. Since the 2020 amendment, a registered organisation cannot transfer foreign contribution to any other person or organisation, including other FCRA-registered NGOs.
What if an NGO receives foreign funds without FCRA?
Receiving foreign contribution without registration or prior permission is a violation that can lead to penalties, confiscation and prosecution. Such funds should not be used and legal advice should be taken immediately.
Is FCRA needed for donations from NRIs?
Donations from Indian citizens living abroad, from their personal savings through normal banking channels, are not treated as foreign contribution. Donations from foreign citizens, including persons of Indian origin with foreign citizenship, are.
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