How to Register an NGO in Kolkata – Complete Guide 2026
Complete step-by-step guide for NGO registration in Kolkata. Learn about Trust, Society, Section 8 Company registration, documents required, FCRA, and 12A/80G tax exemptions.
Registering a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in Kolkata allows you to legally engage in social welfare, charitable, or educational activities. NGOs in India can be registered as Trusts, Societies, or Section 8 Companies under the Companies Act.
In Kolkata, you can register an NGO in three ways: as a Public Charitable Trust under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882; as a Society under the West Bengal Societies Registration Act, 1961; or as a Section 8 Company under the Companies Act, 2013.
Each structure has different requirements, compliance obligations, and governance frameworks. The choice depends on the nature of activities, scale, and funding sources.
Trust Registration in Kolkata
A Public Charitable Trust is created through a Trust Deed executed on non-judicial stamp paper. The deed must specify the trust's name, objectives, trustees, and beneficiaries. In West Bengal, the trust deed must be registered with the Sub-Registrar of Assurances.
A minimum of 2 trustees is required. The trust is governed by the Board of Trustees and is simpler to manage than a society.
Society Registration in West Bengal
Under the West Bengal Societies Registration Act, 1961, a minimum of 7 members is required to form a society. The society must file a Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Rules & Regulations with the Registrar of Societies.
The Registrar of Societies office is located at Bhabani Bhaban, Alipore, Kolkata. The registration process typically takes 2-3 months.
Section 8 Company Registration
Section 8 Company is registered under the Companies Act, 2013 with the Registrar of Companies (ROC), Kolkata. It requires minimum 2 directors and 2 members. The company must have charitable objectives and cannot distribute profits to members.
Section 8 Company offers higher credibility, easier FCRA registration, and is preferred for larger NGOs receiving foreign funding. It requires more compliance than trusts or societies.
Documents Required for NGO Registration
Trust Deed / MOA / Incorporation documents
Identity proof of all founding members
Address proof of registered office
Proof of ownership or rental agreement for office
Photographs of all members/trustees
PAN card of the NGO and members
Bank account details
Details of governing body members
Affidavit of non-profit objectives
Tax Exemptions - 12A and 80G
After registration, apply for 12A registration with the Income Tax Department for exemption of income. 80G certification allows donors to claim tax deductions on donations. These are crucial for fundraising and donor confidence.
The application is filed online through the Income Tax portal. Processing takes 2-4 months. Professional assistance from a CA is recommended.
FCRA Registration for Foreign Funding
If your NGO plans to receive foreign donations, FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) registration is mandatory. Apply to the Ministry of Home Affairs through the FCRA portal. The application requires a minimum of 3 years of existence (for new NGOs).
Recent amendments have made FCRA compliance more stringent, requiring bank accounts in SBI, Delhi branch, and regular reporting.
⚡ Need Legal Help?
Planning to register an NGO in Kolkata? Our legal team can guide you through the registration process, 12A/80G applications, and compliance.
Which is better - Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company?+
Trusts are simplest for small local NGOs. Societies suit membership-based organizations. Section 8 Companies offer highest credibility for large NGOs seeking international funding.
How long does NGO registration take?+
Trust registration: 1-2 weeks at Sub-Registrar office. Society registration: 2-3 months. Section 8 Company: 2-4 weeks through ROC.
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