Many organizations in India, like NGOs, trusts, and societies, do important work to help people in need. Sometimes, they get help in the form of money or donations from other countries. To make sure this foreign money is used in the right way, the Indian government has made a rule called the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).
If an organization wants to accept money from outside India, it must get permission through FCRA registration. To get this registration, the group must submit several important documents. These documents prove that the organization is real, responsible, and using funds for good work.
This article will explain all the documents needed for FCRA registration in a clear and simple way. It will help organizations get ready, avoid mistakes, and increase their chances of getting approved.
What is FCRA Registration?
FCRA Registration is special permission given by the Indian government to NGOs, trusts, and other organizations in India. It allows them to legally receive money or donations from other countries.
The full form of FCRA is Foreign Contribution Regulation Act. This rule helps the government make sure that foreign money is used properly and only for good purposes—like helping poor people, running schools, health camps, or other social work.
Any organization that wants to accept foreign funds must first apply for FCRA registration. There are two types:
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Prior Permission: For new or small organizations to get money from one specific donor.
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Permanent Registration: For experienced organizations that regularly get foreign donations.
Without this registration, it is illegal to receive foreign money. So, FCRA registration is very important for groups doing good work and looking for support from outside India.
Documents Required For FCRA Registration
1. Registration Certificate
The Registration Certificate is an official document proving that the organization is legally formed under Indian law. It may be a Society Registration Certificate, Trust Deed, or Certificate of Incorporation. This certificate confirms the organization’s legal status and is essential for applying for FCRA registration to receive foreign contributions.
2. PAN Card of the Organization
The PAN Card of the Organization is a mandatory document that serves as the organization's unique identification number issued by the Income Tax Department. It ensures transparency in financial dealings and must be in the name of the organization not an individual to apply for FCRA registration and receive foreign funds legally.
3. Darpan ID from NITI Aayog
The Darpan ID is a unique identification number provided by the NGO Darpan Portal under NITI Aayog. It is compulsory for FCRA registration. This ID connects the organization with government records and ensures transparency by verifying the NGO’s basic details, leadership, and areas of work across ministries.
4. Memorandum of Association (MOA) / Trust Deed
The Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Trust Deed outlines the purpose, rules, and functioning of an organization. It details the objectives, governance structure, and authorized activities. This document helps the FCRA authorities verify that the organization's goals align with legally permitted areas for receiving foreign contributions, such as education, health, or social welfare.
5. Audited Financial Statements (Last 3 Years)
The Audited Financial Statements for the last 3 years include the balance sheet, income and expenditure account, and receipts and payments statement. These documents show the organization's financial health, transparency, and active operations. They help prove that the organization is genuinely working towards its objectives and responsibly handling funds.
6. Statement of Activities (Last 3 Years)
The Statement of Activities (Last 3 Years) is a detailed report showcasing the key programs, projects, and initiatives carried out by the organization. It highlights the impact and outreach of its work, helping FCRA authorities assess the organization's commitment, consistency, and alignment with its stated objectives and charitable goals.
7. Bank Account Details
The Bank Account Details refer to the specific FCRA-designated account opened in the State Bank of India, New Delhi Main Branch (NDMB). This account is used exclusively for receiving foreign contributions. Details like account number, IFSC code, and branch address must be provided to ensure proper tracking and legal compliance.
8. List of Governing Body Members
The List of Governing Body Members includes the names, addresses, designations, nationalities, and identification details (like Aadhaar or PAN) of all trustees, directors, or board members. This list helps FCRA authorities verify the organization's leadership, ensuring transparency, accountability, and that no member is involved in prohibited or criminal activities.
9. Board Resolution for FCRA Application
The Board Resolution for FCRA Application is an official document passed by the organization’s governing body, authorizing the application for FCRA registration. It designates a responsible person usually the chief functionary to handle the process. This resolution confirms that the application is made with the full knowledge and approval of the organization’s leadership.
10. Affidavit / Declaration
The Affidavit / Declaration is a formal statement signed by the organization's chief functionary, affirming that the organization is not involved in any unlawful or anti-national activities. It also confirms that all foreign contributions will be used only for approved purposes. This document ensures legal accountability and ethical compliance under FCRA rules.
11. Address Proof
The Address Proof confirms the official registered address of the organization. Acceptable documents include a recent electricity bill, telephone bill, rent agreement with NOC from the owner, or property tax receipt. The address must match the one mentioned in the registration certificate to ensure consistency and authenticity during the FCRA application process.
12. Passport-size Photograph of Chief Functionary
The Passport-size Photograph of the Chief Functionary is a recent color photo of the organization’s head such as the president, managing trustee, or director. It is required for identification and official records during the FCRA application. The photo should be clear, properly formatted, and match the details provided in the application form.
13. Email ID and Mobile Number
The Email ID and Mobile Number are essential contact details of the organization and its chief functionary. They are used for communication, receiving OTPs, and updates during the FCRA registration process. These details must be active, regularly monitored, and correctly entered to avoid delays or missed notifications from the FCRA authorities.
For the further Procedure of FCRA Registration click here:
https://www.compliancecalendar.in/learn/documents-and-procedure-for-fcra-registration
Conclusion
Getting FCRA registration is a big step for any NGO or trust that wants to receive foreign donations in India. To make this process smooth, having all the right documents ready is very important. From basic papers like your registration certificate and PAN card to detailed records like audited financials and activity reports, every document shows that your organization is genuine, active, and trustworthy.
Keeping your documents neat, updated, and correct helps avoid delays or rejection. Also, small things like a passport-size photo, correct contact details, and a valid FCRA bank account can make a big difference. Remember, the goal of FCRA registration is to ensure that foreign funds are used for good causes in a legal and transparent way.
If you have any queries regarding Documents for FCRA Registration, then you can connect with Compliance Calendar LLP experts through email info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp at +91 9988424211.
FAQs
Q1. What are the documents required for FCRA?
Ans. Documents required for FCRA include registration certificate, PAN card, Darpan ID, MOA/Trust Deed, audited financials, activity report, FCRA bank details, board resolution, affidavits, and address proof.
Q2. What are the qualifications for FCRA registration?
Ans. To qualify for FCRA registration, an organization must be legally registered, active for 3 years, have spent Rs.10 lakh on programs, possess a Darpan ID, and maintain a clean record.
Q3. Who Cannot accept FCRA?
Ans. Entities like political parties, government servants, judges, media persons, and election candidates cannot accept foreign contributions under FCRA, as it may affect national interest, neutrality, or public trust.
Q4. What is FCRA certificate for NGO?
Ans. An FCRA certificate for an NGO is official approval from the Indian government that allows the organization to legally receive and use foreign donations for social, educational, or charitable activities.
Q5. What is the purpose of the FCRA?
Ans. The purpose of FCRA is to regulate foreign donations, ensure transparency, and prevent misuse. It allows only eligible organizations to receive funds for lawful, social, educational, or charitable activities.
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