The Ministry of Home Affairs has observed delays in the submission of renewal applications under FCRA, 2010. Many associations have been applying less than ninety days before certificate expiry, which hampers the scrutiny process and causes disruption in their ability to receive or utilise foreign contributions.

Associations registered under FCRA are strictly advised to file renewal applications well in advance and not later than four months before the expiry of their certificate.

• Section 16(1) mandates filing renewal within six months before expiry.
• Section 16(3) requires the Government to ordinarily decide within ninety days.
• Rule 12(2) mandates submission through Form FC-3C with affidavits in Proforma “AA.”
• Rule 12(5) clarifies that if renewal is not granted before expiry, the association cannot receive or utilise foreign contributions until approval.

The clarification ensures smoother processing of applications and prevents deemed cessation of registration due to late submission.