Introduction
Form FC-GPR (Foreign Currency - Gross Provisional Return) is a mandatory filing under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) for Indian companies issuing shares to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) or foreign investors. It is submitted to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) through the FIRMS portal to report foreign investments in India.
If you're an Indian company issuing shares to NRIs, understanding the FC-GPR filing process is crucial to ensure compliance and avoid penalties. This guide provides a step-by-step process, documents required, and key considerations for smooth submission.
Who Needs to File Form FC-GPR?
Indian companies issuing the following types of securities to NRIs or foreign investors must file Form FC-GPR:
Equity shares
Compulsorily Convertible Debentures (CCDs)
Compulsorily Convertible Preference Shares (CCPS)
When to File?
Form FC-GPR must be filed within 30 days of issuing shares to an NRI or foreign investor.
Step-by-Step Process to File Form FC-GPR
Step 1: Register on the FIRMS Portal
Visit the RBI’s FIRMS portal(https://firms.rbi.org.in)
Create an Entity User account.
Once approved, log in and add company details.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Ensure you have the following documents in digital format (PDFs under 5 MB):
Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate (FIRC) – Proof of funds received from the NRI investor.
KYC Report of NRI Investor – Provided by the remitting bank.
Board Resolution – Approving the issuance of shares.
Share Valuation Report – From a Chartered Accountant (CA) or a Merchant Banker.
Certificate from Company Secretary (CS) – Confirming compliance with FEMA regulations.
Details of Issue – Number of shares, price per share, and mode of payment.
Declaration by Authorized Signatory – Signed declaration confirming the correctness of details.
Step 3: Fill & Submit Form FC-GPR
Log in to the FIRMS portal.
Navigate to Single Master Form (SMF) and select FC-GPR.
Fill in the details about the NRI investment, share issue, and remittance.
Upload the required documents.
Submit the form.
An Acknowledgment Number is generated.
Step 4: RBI Review & Approval
The RBI reviews the submission and may request additional details.
Once approved, the status is updated on the portal.
If there are discrepancies, the company will be notified for corrections.
Key Considerations for Filing
Ensure all details match the FIRC and KYC documents.
The share valuation report should comply with RBI pricing guidelines.
File the form within 30 days to avoid penalties.
Maintain records for future compliance audits.
Conclusion
Filing Form FC-GPR is a crucial regulatory requirement for Indian companies issuing shares to NRIs. By following this step-by-step guide, ensuring correct documentation, and meeting deadlines, companies can smoothly comply with FEMA guidelines and avoid penalties.
For expert assistance in filing Form FC-GPR, contact Finfit Advisors at finfitadvisor@gmail.com or call 7827574328.
FAQs
1. What happens if I miss the 30-day deadline for FC-GPR filing?
A delay may attract penalties, which vary based on the amount involved. Companies should apply for a condonation of delay with RBI.
2. Can an NRI invest in any Indian company?
NRIs can invest in most Indian companies except those in sectors like real estate and agriculture, which have restrictions.
3. Do I need to submit Form FC-GPR for every investment round?
Yes, every new investment by an NRI requires a separate FC-GPR filing within 30 days.
4. How can I track my FC-GPR application status?
Log in to the FIRMS portal, go to the FC-GPR section, and check the status.
5. What is the penalty for incorrect filing?
Incorrect details may lead to rejection. If incorrect information is found later, penalties may be imposed under FEMA.