FCRA Registration for Foreign Contributions
Planning to receive foreign donations or grants for your NGO? Leegal manages your FCRA registration or prior permission application.
What Is FCRA Registration?
The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 governs how NGOs, societies, trusts and Section 8 companies in India can receive and use foreign contributions, requiring either FCRA registration or prior permission before accepting such funds.
It also requires maintaining a designated FCRA bank account and filing an annual return reporting foreign contributions received and utilised.
| FCRA Registration | Prior Permission |
|---|---|
| For organisations with an established track record | For newer organisations or specific one-off contributions |
| Allows receiving foreign contributions on an ongoing basis | Allows a specific contribution from a specific donor |
| Requires the organisation to be registered for a minimum period | More accessible for newer or smaller organisations |
| Needs renewal periodically | Limited to the approved contribution and purpose |
Documents Required
Keep these ready before your consultation to speed up the application.
- Certificate of registration of the trust/society/Section 8 company
- Memorandum/trust deed and by-laws
- PAN of the organisation
- Details of activities and audited financial statements
- Details of key functionaries/office bearers
- Details of the designated FCRA bank account
How It Works
Eligibility Check
We assess whether registration or prior permission fits your situation.
Documentation
We help compile the required organisational and financial documents.
Application Filing
We file the FCRA application with the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Compliance Setup
We guide you on the designated bank account and annual return requirements.
FCRA Registration
Support for organisations seeking ongoing FCRA registration.
Prior Permission
Application support for a specific foreign contribution or donor.
Annual Return & Renewal
Ongoing support with FCRA annual returns and periodic renewal.
Why Apply Through Leegal
- Experienced team familiar with FCRA documentation requirements.
- Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden charges.
- One dedicated point of contact throughout the process.
- Support with the designated bank account and annual filing.
Talk to Our Team
GS006, Vikash Nagar, Ramgarh Cantt, Jharkhand 829122, India
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs FCRA registration?
NGOs, societies, trusts and Section 8 companies planning to receive foreign contributions on an ongoing basis generally need FCRA registration.
What if my organisation is new and doesn't qualify for registration yet?
Prior permission can often be sought for a specific contribution from a specific donor while your organisation builds the track record needed for full registration.
Is a special bank account required for foreign contributions?
Yes, a designated FCRA bank account is required to receive and manage foreign contributions.
Does FCRA registration need to be renewed?
Yes, registration is generally valid for a period and needs renewal before it lapses.
What compliance is required after getting FCRA registration?
An annual return reporting foreign contributions received and utilised is generally required, along with maintaining proper records.
Need Help With FCRA Registration?
Talk to our team and get a clear plan for your application — no obligation.