What is the difference between FCRA registration and prior permission?

Name: Vijay R Singh & Co.
Address: Office No. 4, Vishal CHSL, D Wing, Sir Mathuradas Vasanji Road, Azad Nagar, Opp. Andheri Gymkhana, Andheri East, Maharashtra, 400069, IN
Telephone: +91 98607 23959

CA Vijay R Singh, FCA
Chartered Accountant · ICAI M.No. 153926 · FRN 136869W

Short answerFCRA registration is a general approval for an established NGO (3+ years) to receive foreign funds on an ongoing basis; prior permission is a one-time approval for a specific donor and amount, used by newer NGOs. Both require a designated FCRA bank account with SBI New Delhi.

Registration vs prior permission

Ongoing general approval vs one-off project-specific approval.

SBI Delhi account

Both route foreign funds through the designated SBI New Delhi main branch account.

Trusts & Societies

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This answer is general information for trusts and societies, not tax or legal advice. Tax rates, thresholds and forms change with each Finance Act — please confirm the current position for your own facts, or speak to us, before acting.