FCRA Registration vs Prior Permission
Choose between regular registration and donor-project-specific prior permission.
Choose between regular registration and donor-project-specific prior permission. Use the sections below to understand the practical decisions, records and compliance points before taking action.
Permission must precede receipt
An eligible association must obtain FCRA registration or prior permission before accepting or utilising foreign contribution. NGO, Trust, Society, Section 8, Darpan or tax registration alone does not authorise foreign funding.
Regular registration uses FC-3A
Regular registration is the broader route for an established association that meets statutory conditions and can demonstrate activities and compliance readiness. Approval remains discretionary.
Prior permission uses FC-3B
Prior permission is tied to a specific donor, amount and project. It may be relevant where regular-registration eligibility is not established but a definite foreign commitment and project exist.
Source and purpose need diligence
Verify whether the contributor is a foreign source, the legitimacy of funds, project alignment, restrictions and whether acceptance is prohibited or needs special treatment.
Banking is required before application
Applicants need the designated FCRA receipt account at SBI New Delhi Main Branch and must provide it in the registration or prior-permission application.
Approval is not a funding guarantee
MHA may scrutinise governance, activities, source, purpose, accounts and public interest. No consultant can promise approval or timing.
Official References
Rules and portal requirements can change. Review the current official material relevant to the proposed company.
This article provides general information and is not a substitute for legal, tax or investment advice. Applicability should be reviewed for the proposed entity and current law.