Can an NGO receive foreign donations without FCRA?

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 answerNo — an organisation can’t legally accept foreign contributions without FCRA registration or prior permission. Doing so can lead to penalties and freezing of accounts. The only routine exceptions are gifts from relatives abroad to individuals, within limits.

Not allowed without FCRA

Foreign contributions need FCRA registration or prior permission; otherwise it’s an offence.

Limited exceptions

Personal gifts from relatives abroad, within prescribed limits, are outside FCRA.

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.