1. 🏁 Introduction
The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) registration is mandatory for any NGO, trust, society, or Section 8 company in India looking to receive foreign donations or grants.
With the rise in international collaborations and global funding, the FCRA license ensures transparency, accountability, and legal compliance while accepting foreign contributions.
📢 2025 Update: As per recent amendments, all FCRA-registered organizations must open a bank account with SBI New Delhi Main Branch (NDMB) for receiving foreign funds.
2. 📂 Types of Licenses Offered Under FCRA
Type | Description |
FCRA Registration | For organizations with a proven track record (3+ years) of societal work |
FCRA Prior Permission | For newly formed entities looking to receive foreign funding for a specific purpose/project |
FCRA Renewal | Mandatory every 5 years to keep the license active |
FCRA Amendment | To update organizational or bank details in the FCRA license |
3. 👤 Who Needs These Services?
If you are:
- An NGO receiving funds from abroad
- A society/trust working with foreign institutions
- A Section 8 company seeking overseas grants
- A faith-based or charity organization involved in global aid
- An educational or research institution with foreign collaborations
…then FCRA registration is legally required.
4. 🤝 Why Choose a License Registration Service Provider?
Navigating the FCRA portal and complying with strict documentation is legally sensitive and complex. Choosing an experienced registration partner offers:
- Complete documentation and drafting support
- Compliance with the latest FCRA rules
- Error-free and time-bound application filing
- Professional advice on annual returns and fund utilization
- Assistance with renewal, cancellation, and amendments
Partnering with Opriya Trending Pvt Ltd ensures peace of mind and fast-track approval.
5. 📝 Registration Process
For FCRA Registration:
- Visit the official website
- Create a login and fill Form FC-3A
- Upload organizational details, financial statements & activity report
- Pay online application fee
- Submit and track status online
- Await verification and approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
For Prior Permission:
- Fill Form FC-3B
- Attach foreign donor letter, purpose, and utilization plan
- Wait for permission-specific approval
6. 📑 Required Documents
Document Type | Details |
Registration Certificate | Trust Deed, Society Reg. Certificate, or Incorporation Certificate |
PAN Card | Of the organization |
Financial Statements | Last 3 years audited reports (for full registration) |
Activity Report | Details of social/charitable work done |
Bank Account | With SBI, New Delhi Main Branch (as per FCRA Rule 2020) |
Board Member Details | Aadhaar, PAN, passport-size photo, and ID proofs |
Commitment Letter | From foreign donor (in case of prior permission) |
7. 💸 Cost Involved
Service | Fee |
Government Fee (Form FC-3A/3B) | ₹10,000 |
Service Provider Charges | ₹3,000 to ₹8,000 (based on complexity) |
FCRA Renewal Fee | ₹5,000 |
💡 Tip: Ensure digital signatures (DSC) of the authorized signatory are ready before starting the process.
8. ⏱ Time Taken
Step | Duration |
FCRA Registration | 60 to 90 working days |
Prior Permission | 30 to 45 working days |
Renewal/Amendment | 15 to 30 working days |
Note: Timelines vary depending on the Ministry’s due diligence.
9. ⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uploading incorrect or outdated financial statements
- Not updating change in board members or address
- Failing to open a designated SBI NDMB account
- Delay in filing Annual FC-4 Return
- Receiving funds before registration approval
🛑 Penalties include cancellation of registration and blacklisting.
10. 📞 Call-to-Action (CTA)
Need help with FCRA registration, renewal, or prior permission?
✅ Contact us now for smooth and fast-track compliance:
📧 Email: opriyatrendingpvtltd@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp: +91 7588756518
🌐 Visit: www.opriyatrending.in
We also assist with NGO DARPAN, 12A/80G, PAN, and compliance audits.
11. ❓ FAQs – FCRA Registration in India
Q1: Is FCRA registration mandatory for all NGOs?
Yes, if an NGO wants to receive foreign contributions, FCRA registration is compulsory.
Q2: Can a new NGO apply for full registration?
No. New NGOs can only apply for prior permission unless they have 3+ years of operation.
Q3: Is there any renewal for FCRA?
Yes. It must be renewed every 5 years.
Q4: What is the official portal for FCRA?
The official government website
Q5: Can an individual apply for FCRA?
No, only registered entities such as NGOs, societies, and companies are eligible.