Foreign Contribution (FCRA) Compliance
FCRA registration, prior permission, renewal and annual compliance for NGOs receiving foreign contributions.
- Estimate Cost
- ₹15,000 – ₹1,00,000
- Typical duration
- 30 days
Service overview
- FCRA compliance covers registration and ongoing compliance under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010
- It is mandatory for NGOs, trusts and societies that want to receive foreign donations for social, educational, cultural, economic or religious programmes
Who needs it? / When is it needed?
- NGOs, trusts, societies and Section 8 companies planning to receive foreign contributions.
- Organisations holding FCRA registration that need renewal or annual compliance.
- When you receive a one-time foreign grant (prior permission).
What to expect from the WCP Professionals
- Eligibility review.
- Filing for registration, prior permission or renewal.
- Opening of the FCRA account at SBI, New Delhi Main Branch.
- Fund utilisation tracking and administrative expense monitoring.
- Quarterly receipt disclosures, annual FC-4 returns with CA certification, and foreign donor due diligence.
Key deliverables
- FCRA registration or prior permission certificate.
- Renewal approval.
- Annual FC-4 returns.
- Utilisation registers and compliance calendar.
Standard turnaround time
- Application preparation: 1–2 weeks.
- Ministry of Home Affairs approval: typically 3–6 months or more.
- FC-4 due by 31 December each year.
- Renewal to be filed at least 6 months before expiry.
Government fees, timelines & key outcomes
Government fees: ₹10,000 for fresh FCRA registration, and ₹5,000 each for prior permission and for renewal.
Registration is valid for five years and must be renewed before expiry. Foreign contributions must first be received in the designated FCRA account at SBI, New Delhi Main Branch.
Key outcomes: lawful receipt and use of foreign contributions, and continuity of registration.
Forms & filings involved
- Form FC-3A (registration).
- Form FC-3B (prior permission).
- Form FC-3C (renewal).
- Form FC-4 (annual return).
- Change intimation forms (FC-6 series).
Documents required
- Registration deed or certificate and PAN.
- Audited financials for the last 3 years.
- Activity reports.
- Details and KYC of key functionaries.
- Donor commitment letter (for prior permission).
What we need from you
- Board approvals.
- Accurate activity and fund records.
- Timely bank and donor documents.
Important conditions
- Registration generally requires 3 years of existence and Rs 15 lakh spent on core activities.
- Administrative expenses are capped at 20% of foreign contributions.
- Foreign contribution cannot be transferred to other persons or organisations.
Additional information
- Violations can lead to suspension or cancellation of registration.
- Related services: AML & KYC Compliance.
The estimated cost covers indicative professional fees only. Government fees, stamp duty and taxes are payable at actuals.
How it works
- 1. Raise a service enquiry describing your requirement.
- 2. A Relationship Manager reviews it and opens it for bidding.
- 3. Pay into escrow and assign the professional you select.
- 4. Track progress to completion, then accept and release payment.
Frequently asked questions
What is the FCRA registration fee?
₹10,000 for fresh registration, and ₹5,000 for prior permission or renewal.
Where must foreign contributions be received?
In the designated FCRA account at SBI, New Delhi Main Branch.
What is Form FC-4?
The annual return of foreign contributions received and used, filed with the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Can foreign contributions be transferred to another NGO?
No. Since the 2020 amendment, transfer of foreign contributions to other persons or organisations is prohibited.