Centre Revises FCRA Rules for NGOs

The Union Home Ministry amended the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Rules, 2011 through a gazette notification issued on 22 June 2026. The revised rules apply to registration and renewal under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010, which regulates foreign donations to associations and non-governmental organisations in India.

FCRA framework

The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 is the principal law governing receipt, utilisation, and transfer of foreign contribution by individuals, associations, and companies in India. The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Rules, 2011 prescribe the application process, disclosure requirements, and compliance conditions for registration and prior approval.

New application and disclosure requirements

Applicants for FCRA registration or renewal must now choose their objectives and operational areas from a predefined list and specify the States or Union Territories where they will operate. They must also disclose details of their social media accounts during the application process. If foreign contribution is received through intermediary remittance vehicles or Donor Advised Funds, the applicant must identify the ultimate donor as the original source of funds. The revised rules also introduce an additional fee of ₹300 for each extra State or purpose included in an application.

Eligibility and compliance conditions

Associations with foreign nationals, excluding persons of Indian origin, as key office-bearers or functionaries will generally not qualify for FCRA registration or prior approval. The rules permit exceptions only through a specific government order. To retain or renew registration, an organisation must spend at least ₹10 lakh from foreign contributions on its declared activities during the previous two financial years. Associations registered before 2026 have one year to inform the government of the specific purposes and States they wish to retain on their registration certificates.

Definition of key functionary

The definition of “key functionary” now includes company directors, partners in firms, trustees, the Karta of a Hindu Undivided Family, and any individual controlling the management of an association. This definition is used for determining responsibility and control in FCRA-related applications.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 is administered by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
• The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Rules, 2011 were framed under the FCRA, 2010.
• FCRA registration and prior approval are the two main routes for receiving foreign contribution in India.
• The term “foreign contribution” is defined under the FCRA, 2010 and covers donations from foreign sources.