How to Apply for FCRA Registration for Your NGO

How to Apply for FCRA Registration for Your NGO

If you run a non-profit organization in India and wish to receive foreign funds, it is essential to obtain FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) registration. FCRA registration is mandatory for any NGO or charitable organization that wants to receive donations from foreign sources. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of applying for FCRA registration for your NGO.

Step 1: Eligibility Criteria

Before applying for FCRA registration, ensure that your NGO meets the eligibility criteria set by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. The key eligibility criteria include:

• NGOs should have been in existence for at least three years.
• NGOs should have conducted genuine social work in the chosen field.
• NGOs should have a minimum expenditure of Rs. 10,00,000 over the past three years on its aims and objectives.

Step 2: Required Documents

Once you have confirmed that your NGO meets the eligibility criteria, you will need to gather the necessary documents for the FCRA registration application. The key documents required include:

• Registration certificate of the NGO
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)
• Details of key members and their identification proof
• Income tax returns for the past three years
• Audited statements of accounts for the past three years

Step 3: Registration Process

Once you have all the required documents in place, you can proceed with the FCRA registration process. Follow these steps to apply for FCRA registration:

1. Visit the official website of the Ministry of Home Affairs and create an account.
2. Fill out the online application form with accurate details and upload the required documents.
3. Pay the registration fee online and submit the application.
4. Once the application is submitted, the Ministry of Home Affairs will verify the details and documents provided.
5. If the application is approved, you will receive the FCRA registration certificate.

Step 4: Compliance Requirements

After obtaining FCRA registration, it is essential to comply with the various reporting and compliance requirements set by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Some key compliance requirements include:

• Filing annual returns with details of foreign contributions received
• Maintaining proper accounts and records of foreign funds received and utilized
• Utilizing foreign funds only for the stated objectives of the NGO
• Obtaining prior permission for receiving foreign funds for specific projects

Step 5: Renewal of FCRA Registration

FCRA registration is valid for a period of five years. It is essential to renew the registration before the expiry date to continue receiving foreign funds legally. The renewal application should be submitted at least six months before the expiry date along with the necessary documents and fee.

Conclusion

Obtaining FCRA registration for your NGO is a crucial step in ensuring transparency and accountability in receiving foreign funds. By following the above steps and complying with the necessary requirements, you can successfully apply for and maintain FCRA registration for your NGO. Remember to always adhere to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Home Affairs to avoid any legal issues in the future.