What are the rules for accepting foreign hospitality during visits abroad?

Rajya Sabha members must obtain prior permission from the Central Government under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 before accepting any foreign hospitality during private visits abroad. Applications must be submitted through the online portal www.fcraonline.nic.in at least two weeks before travel.

Understanding the ethical safeguards: This requirement serves as an important guardrail against potential foreign influence and conflicts of interest. The advance application process allows proper vetting of both the source and nature of offered hospitality. The two-week timeline enables thorough evaluation while still accommodating reasonably planned travel. The online submission system creates a documented record of approvals. The advisory to verify credentials of hosting organizations places partial responsibility on members themselves to exercise judgment. These provisions collectively protect both individual members and the institution of Parliament from potentially compromising situations while still allowing legitimate participation in international events and cultural exchange. They reflect the understanding that foreign hospitality, while often innocent, can sometimes be extended with expectations of influence or access that could compromise parliamentary independence.

Key citations:

• Section 15.1 establishes the fundamental requirement: "Members are required to obtain prior permission of the Central Government for accepting any foreign hospitality during their private visits abroad" under "Section 6 of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010" - creating a clear legal obligation.
• Section 15.2 specifies the process: "The Government vide Notification dated 14.12.2015...has mandated to provide services under the FCRA, 2010 only through online portal www.fcraonline.nic.in" - establishing the exclusive submission method.
• Section 15.3 creates the timeline: "To avoid any delay, Members are advised that their applications for acceptance of foreign hospitality must reach the Ministry of Home Affairs at least two weeks before the proposed date of onward journey" - setting a clear advance application requirement.
• Section 15.4 adds a due diligence expectation: "Before accepting the hospitality, the Members should satisfy themselves about the credentials of the organization/institution extending the hospitality" - placing partial responsibility on members themselves.
• Section 18.1(iv) reinforces notification requirements: If receiving "hospitality being offered during visits abroad," members must "keep the Hon'ble Chairman, Rajya Sabha informed" - creating multiple disclosure pathways.
• Section 18.1(iii) emphasizes behavioral expectations: "It may kindly be ensured that none of their activities during those visits give an unintended impression that Members are on an official visit on behalf of Indian Parliament" - preventing misrepresentation of status.

Tags: foreign hospitality, FCRA permissions, international travel, Section 15.1, Section 15.2, Section 15.3, Section 15.4, Section 18.1, Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, ethical guidelines, parliamentary conduct, foreign influence