FCRA Renewal

Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) Renewal
(Price Start at $ 420 /-)

In order to control the acceptance and use of foreign donations by people, organisations, and businesses in India, the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) was passed in 2010. Its goal is to stop the use of foreign monies that can jeopardise internal security in the nation. The Act forbids accepting and using foreign hospitality or contributions for any endeavours that are harmful to the interests of the country.

Every five years, the FCRA registration and prior authorization must be renewed. The online application for renewal, along with the necessary papers (annual FC returns, income expenditure statements, and activity reports), must be filed no later than six months prior to the date of expiration. The application is reviewed to see whether accepting foreign funds complies with Act rules and whether using such funds for activities doesn't conflict with the public interest. After that, the renewal is approved for an additional five years, subject to any restrictions on the quantity, origin, or use of money. Any infraction may lead to a penalty, cancellation, or suspension. Therefore, in order to ensure a smooth licence renewal process, associations must adhere to all FCRA requirements.

What is the eligibility criteria to renew the FCRA Registration?

  • Submission of Annual Returns: Under the FCRA, organisations must file annual returns that include information on the foreign contributions they have received and used.
  • Compliance with FCRA Regulations: The company is required to follow all FCRA rules and directives that the Ministry of Home Affairs has published.
  • Upkeep of Separate Bank Account: The organisation needs to keep an account that is only used for contributions from overseas.
  • Validity Period: Usually, an FCRA registration is good for a set amount of time. Before the current registration expires, renewal is required.
  • No Violation of FCRA rules: The organisation must refrain from engaging in any actions that go against the FCRA's rules.
  • Updated Information: The organisation is responsible for making sure that all of the data submitted during the registration procedure is still true and current. Notifying the authorities of any changes to the organization's details should happen right away.
  • clearance from Relevant Authorities: As part of the renewal procedure, the organisation might need to get clearance from a number of government departments.
  • Submission of Necessary Documents: In accordance with the guidelines for the renewal application, the organisation must provide all required documents.

What are the documents required to renew FCRA?

  • Application Form: Complete and submit the renewal application form for FCRA registration renewal.
  • Audited Accounts: Provide the audited financial statements of the organization, including the Income and Expenditure statement and Balance Sheet for the relevant period.
  • Activity Report: Submit a detailed report on the activities carried out by the organization during the validity period of the current FCRA registration.
  • Utilization of Foreign Contributions: Furnish details of how foreign contributions have been utilized by the organization.
  • Bank Statements: Submit bank statements of the designated FCRA bank account, reflecting all foreign contributions received and utilized.
  • Annual Returns: Provide copies of the annual returns submitted to the MHA as required by FCRA regulations.
  • Foreign Contribution Details: Include detailed information about the foreign contributions received, including the source, purpose, and amount.
  • FCRA Registration Certificate: Attach a copy of the existing FCRA registration certificate.
  • Details of Key Personnel: Provide updated information on key personnel, office bearers, and trustees associated with the organization.
  • Any Other Supporting Documents: Include any additional documents or information that may be specifically requested by the MHA or is relevant to the renewal process.

What is the procedure to follow to renew FCRA?

  • Check Validity PeriodVerify the expiration date of your current FCRA registration to ensure timely renewal.
  • Prepare Required Documents: Gather all the necessary documents, including the renewal application form, audited accounts, activity report, bank statements, and other relevant records.
  • Review and Update InformationEnsure that all information provided during the initial registration remains accurate and up-to-date. Make necessary amendments if there have been any changes.
  • Download Renewal Application Form: Obtain the renewal application form from the official website of the Ministry of Home Affairs or the designated portal for FCRA.
  • Complete Application Form: Fill out the renewal application form with accurate details. Provide all required information and attach the necessary documents.
  • Submit Application Online: Many FCRA renewal processes involve online submission. Check whether the renewal application can be submitted online through the designated portal. Follow the instructions provided for online submission.
  • Payment of Fees: Pay the prescribed renewal fees, if applicable, as specified by the MHA. Ensure that the payment is made through the appropriate channels.
  • Verification Process: The MHA may initiate a verification process to confirm the accuracy of the information provided in the renewal application. Cooperation with the verification process is essential.
  • Communication with MHA: Keep track of communication from the MHA regarding the status of your renewal application. Respond promptly to any queries or requests for additional information.
  • Await Approval: After the completion of the renewal process, await approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Once approved, you will receive a renewed FCRA registration certificate.

How can Seedling help you with renewal of FCRA?

Seedling offers end-to-end assistance for smooth renewal of FCRA registration. Our services include reviewing current compliance status, collating all mandatory documents, filing timely application, following up with regulators, addressing queries, providing expert legal assistance in case of delays or rejection and overall handholding support. With in-depth expertise in FCRA, our dedicated team Ensures seamless approval well before expiry so that the client can continue receiving overseas donations without any disruption to their operations.

Most common question about our services

What documents do you need from my end for renewal application?

We will require your past 5 years annual FCRA returns, income-expenditure statements, activity reports, FC utilization certificates, renewal fee payment proof and any other notices from the regulator.


How long does it take to get FCRA renewal approval?

Typically it takes between 3-6 months from date of application if all documentation is in order. We file 6 months in advance to account for this time lag.


My registration has already expired. Can you still help renewal?

Yes, expired registrations can also be renewed but there will be late fees payable based on period of delay. Our experts can assist in this process.


If my renewal gets rejected, what options do I have?

Don’t worry. Our team will promptly file an appeal if we find justifiable grounds. We also provide legal assistance on rejected renewals if needed to get a favorable order.


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