FCRA Advisory & Compliance

Guiding organisations through foreign contribution regulations and compliance requirements

Trusts and Non Profit Advisory

FCRA Advisory & Compliance

Overview

Foreign contributions play a vital role in enabling charitable and non-profit organisations to pursue their developmental, educational, healthcare and social welfare objectives. However, organisations receiving foreign contributions are required to comply with the stringent regulatory framework prescribed under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 (FCRA) and the rules framed thereunder. We assist trusts, societies and Section 8 companies in obtaining FCRA registration and prior permission, establishing compliant governance and financial reporting frameworks, and fulfilling ongoing regulatory obligations, enabling organisations to receive and utilise foreign contributions with confidence and transparency.

Scope of Services

Our FCRA Advisory & Compliance services include:

  • Advisory on applicability of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010.
  • Assistance in obtaining FCRA Registration and Prior Permission.
  • Advisory on eligibility conditions and documentation requirements.
  • Review of constitutional documents and governance framework for FCRA compliance.
  • Assistance in opening and operating designated FCRA bank accounts.
  • Advisory on receipt, utilisation and accounting of foreign contributions.
  • Preparation and filing of annual returns and other statutory forms under the FCRA.
  • Advisory on maintenance of books of account and records relating to foreign contributions.
  • Assistance in renewal, amendment and modification of FCRA registrations.
  • Review of agreements and grants from foreign donors from an FCRA compliance perspective.
  • Representation before the Ministry of Home Affairs and other regulatory authorities in relation to FCRA matters.

Our Approach

We recognise that compliance with the FCRA extends beyond obtaining registration and requires continuous governance, financial discipline and regulatory oversight. Our approach focuses on understanding the organisation's funding model, governance practices and operational activities to develop practical compliance processes that minimise regulatory risks. By combining legal, tax and accounting expertise, we assist organisations in maintaining full compliance while facilitating the effective utilisation of foreign contributions.

Key Benefits

  • Comprehensive advisory on FCRA registration and regulatory requirements.
  • Timely assistance in obtaining registrations, prior permissions and renewals.
  • Robust compliance framework for receipt, utilisation and reporting of foreign contributions.
  • Reduced regulatory and compliance risks through proactive advisory.
  • Well-documented governance and accounting processes.
  • Experienced representation before regulatory authorities.
  • Ongoing support to address changes in the FCRA framework and regulatory expectations.