Comprehensive FCRA Advisory Services by Harchandani & Associates

Navigating the intricate landscape of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) can be daunting for any organization. At Harchandani & Associates, we specialize in providing expert FCRA advisory services tailored to your unique requirements. Our team of dedicated professionals ensures your compliance journey is smooth, mitigating risks effectively while keeping you informed every step of the way.

Our Comprehensive FCRA Services:
  • FCRA Registration Assistance: Obtain FCRA registration hassle-free with our expert guidance. We navigate you through the application process, ensuring adherence to all regulatory requirements for a seamless experience.
  • Thorough Compliance Review: Our meticulous audits assess your organization's FCRA compliance comprehensively. We identify potential areas of non-compliance and offer strategic recommendations for swift remediation, safeguarding your operations.
  • Streamlined Documentation Support: Stay compliant with FCRA reporting requirements effortlessly. Our experts provide guidance on maintaining accurate records and streamlined documentation processes, ensuring regulatory adherence without unnecessary complexities.
  • Transaction Advisory Solutions: Navigate the complexities of foreign contributions under FCRA regulations confidently with our transaction advisory services. We offer strategic advice on transaction structuring and compliance with regulatory guidelines, empowering your organization to make informed decisions.
  • Empowering Training and Workshops: Equip your team with in-depth knowledge of FCRA regulations and compliance best practices through our tailored training sessions and workshops. Stay updated on recent developments in the field, empowering your staff to maintain compliance effectively.
  • Proactive FCRA Compliance Monitoring: Stay ahead of regulatory changes with our proactive monitoring services. We keep you informed about evolving FCRA regulations, providing regular updates and guidance to help you adapt and ensure continued compliance seamlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is required to register under FCRA and what does it allow?

Any association — NGOs, trusts, Section 8 companies, registered societies — that receives or intends to receive foreign contributions for cultural, economic, educational, religious, or social purposes must register under the FCRA, 2010. FCRA registration allows the organisation to legally accept foreign donations and grants. Organisations without registration can apply for Prior Permission (PP) for a specific donor and amount.

What is the difference between FCRA registration and Prior Permission (PP)?

FCRA registration (Section 11) is a general 5-year permission allowing an established organisation to receive foreign contributions from any permissible source on an ongoing basis. Prior Permission (Section 11(2)) is a one-time, case-specific permission for newer organisations receiving funds for a specific project from a specific donor. PP typically requires the organisation to have existed for 3+ years and spent ₹15 lakh on core activities in the past 3 years.

What are the annual compliance obligations under FCRA?

FCRA-registered organisations must: (1) receive all foreign contributions only in the designated FCRA bank account at SBI NDMB, (2) file Form FC-4 (Annual Return) by 31st December annually even if no funds were received, (3) maintain separate FCRA accounts and records, (4) report receipt of foreign contributions above ₹1 crore within 48 hours, and (5) use funds only for their stated purpose. Violations can lead to registration cancellation.

What are the consequences of receiving foreign contributions without FCRA registration?

Receiving foreign contributions without valid FCRA registration is a criminal offence under Section 35 of the FCRA, 2010. Consequences include imprisonment up to 5 years, substantial fines, freezing and forfeiture of the received foreign funds, and cancellation of any existing FCRA registration. The Ministry of Home Affairs has significantly tightened enforcement in recent years.

How can Harchandani & Associates help with FCRA compliance in Ahmedabad?

We guide organisations through the complete FCRA process — eligibility assessment, preparation of Form FC-3A/FC-3B, collation of required documents, filing on the FCRA portal, and follow-up with the Ministry of Home Affairs. We also assist with FCRA annual returns (Form FC-4), internal audit of FCRA funds, and compounding applications to regularise any past violations.

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