Corpzo: Apply for Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) 2010 Certificate – Process, Eligibility & Documents Required in India

Introduction

In an increasingly globalized world, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), non-profits, and charitable institutions in India often rely on foreign contributions to fund their social, educational, cultural, religious, and economic activities. However, to receive any such funding legally, organizations must comply with the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), 2010.

The FCRA was enacted by the Indian government to regulate the acceptance and utilization of foreign funds and contributions. The primary goal of the Act is to ensure that foreign donations do not adversely affect the internal security, sovereignty, and integrity of India.

At Corpzo, we assist NGOs, societies, Section 8 companies, and trusts in obtaining FCRA registration or prior permission, so they can legally and efficiently receive foreign funds and remain fully compliant with Indian regulations.

What Is the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), 2010?

The FCRA, 2010 is a regulatory framework enforced by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India, to govern organizations that accept foreign contributions or donations.

Under this Act:

• Only registered entities can legally accept foreign funds.

• Utilization of such funds must be for bonafide purposes such as social, educational, cultural, or religious work.

• Full compliance with annual filing, record-keeping, and fund-tracking obligations is mandatory.

Who Needs FCRA Registration?

Organizations that intend to:

• Receive donations or grants from foreign individuals, entities, or foundations.

• Collaborate with international agencies or foreign governments.

• Partner with foreign NGOs on developmental or humanitarian projects.

Entities eligible to apply include:

• Trusts registered under the Indian Trusts Act.

• Societies registered under the Societies Registration Act.

• Section 8 Companies under the Companies Act, 2013.

• Institutions working in areas like education, health, environment, rural development, women empowerment, etc.

Types of FCRA Approval

There are two ways an organization can receive approval under FCRA:

1. FCRA Registration

• Suitable for organizations with a track record of at least 3 years in social work.

• Should have spent at least ₹15 lakh in the last 3 years towards its core objectives using domestic funds.

• Valid for 5 years and can be renewed.

2. Prior Permission

• For newly registered organizations that want to receive funds from a specific foreign donor for a particular project.

• One-time approval for a specified purpose and amount.

• Ideal for new entities or one-time collaborations.

Benefits of Obtaining FCRA Registration

✔️ Legally Accept Foreign FundsYou can safely receive contributions from international individuals, institutions, or donors without legal risk.

✔️ Expand Your Funding BaseRegistering under FCRA allows NGOs to tap into global philanthropic networks, CSR funds, and development programs.

✔️ Boost Credibility & ComplianceDonors, CSR partners, and government agencies prefer working with legally compliant organizations.

✔️ Multi-Year ApprovalOnce registered, you can receive foreign contributions without re-approval for 5 years.

Corpzo’s Role in the FCRA Application Process

At Corpzo, we simplify the entire FCRA registration and compliance process. Our experts provide end-to-end support — from documentation and application to post-approval compliance.

Documents Required for FCRA Registration in India

To apply for FCRA registration or prior permission, the following documents are mandatory:

Organizational Documents

• Certificate of Registration (Trust Deed / Society / Section 8 Incorporation)

• PAN Card of the organization

• MOA & AOA or rules and regulations

• Activity report of the last 3 years

• Financial statements audited by a CA (minimum 3 years)

• Statement of income and expenditure for past 3 years

Details of Key Functionaries

• Name, address, PAN, Aadhaar

• Photograph and designation

• Contact details and occupation

• Declaration of non-foreign citizenship

Project and Funding Details (For Prior Permission)

• Letter of commitment from the foreign donor

• Detailed project proposal

• Budget breakdown

• Affidavit and declarations from the head of the organization

Bank Account Details

• FCRA-specific bank account in a designated SBI branch, New Delhi (as per FCRA 2020 amendment)

• Cancelled cheque and account statement

Corpzo helps in collecting, verifying, drafting, and uploading all the above documentation accurately.

FCRA Registration Process with Corpzo

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how Corpzo facilitates smooth FCRA certification:

✅ Step 1: Consultation & Eligibility Assessment

We evaluate your organization’s legal standing, activity track record, and financials to:

• Determine eligibility

• Choose between registration and prior permission

• Identify areas for document improvement

✅ Step 2: Preparation of Documents

We help you:

• Draft the FCRA application

• Create project reports, budgets, and funding justifications

• Format financial statements per MHA requirements

• Compile affidavits and declarations

✅ Step 3: Online Application Submission

We submit the FCRA application online on the FCRA portal through:

• Form FC-3A for registration

• Form FC-3B for prior permission

Each form is digitally signed by the chief functionary using a valid Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).

✅ Step 4: Liaising with MHA

We follow up with the Ministry of Home Affairs, respond to any queries, and provide clarifications if required.

✅ Step 5: Approval & Certificate Issuance

On successful review, the organization is granted:

• FCRA Registration Certificate or

• Prior Permission Letter

The certificate is valid for 5 years (renewable) and allows receipt of foreign contributions in the designated SBI FCRA account.

FCRA Registration Fees in India (Through Corpzo)

At Corpzo, we provide transparent and affordable pricing tailored for NGOs and NPOs.

Particulars	Government Fee (INR)	Corpzo Professional Fee (INR)
FCRA Registration (Form FC-3A)	₹10,000	₹15,000 – ₹25,000
FCRA Prior Permission (Form FC-3B)	₹5,000	₹10,000 – ₹20,000
DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)	₹1,200 – ₹2,000	As required

📝 Note: Prices may vary based on complexity, number of trustees, and project size.

Why Choose Corpzo for FCRA Registration in India?

• ✅ Legal Experts in NGO & FCRA Laws

• ✅ Track Record of 500+ Successful NGO Clients

• ✅ End-to-End Online & Offline Assistance

• ✅ Fast Turnaround and Compliance-Ready Filing

• ✅ Affordable Plans with Transparency

We offer not just filing, but strategic advice on how to remain compliant, maintain donor trust, and renew FCRA licenses successfully.

Important Compliance After FCRA Registration

Once you receive your certificate, the work doesn’t end. Here’s what Corpzo also helps with:

• Maintaining separate FCRA bank accounts

• Filing annual returns (Form FC-4)

• Quarterly disclosures of foreign contributions

• Filing Form FC-1 for intimation of foreign gifts

• Renewal of FCRA license (after 5 years)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is FCRA registration mandatory for receiving all types of foreign funds?Yes. Even voluntary gifts or small donations from abroad require FCRA compliance.

Q2: What is the timeline to get FCRA approval?It usually takes 3–4 months, depending on the completeness of documents and MHA response time.

Q3: Can a new NGO get FCRA registration?New NGOs can apply for prior permission first. Registration requires a minimum 3-year track record.

Q4: Can one FCRA registration be used for multiple projects?Yes. Once registered, an organization can receive funds for any approved activity, subject to reporting.

Q5: What if I don’t file FCRA returns?Non-compliance can result in penalties, suspension, or cancellation of FCRA license.

Conclusion

Obtaining an FCRA certificate is a crucial step for any NGO or NPO that aims to work with global donors and partners. It not only ensures legality but also builds the trust and confidence needed to attract international funding.

At Corpzo, we combine legal expertise, technology, and personalized service to ensure your FCRA registration process is smooth, compliant, and fast.

Ready to Accept Foreign Donations? Start with Corpzo Today

Visit www.corpzo.com to schedule your free consultation and begin your FCRA registration or prior permission process with confidence.