FATCA & CRS Specialist

FCS – FATCA & CRS Specialist Certification

Advance Your Career in Global Tax Compliance with the FATCA & CRS Specialist (FCS) Certification

Globally recognised | Practical | Designed for banking, finance, and regulatory professionals worldwide

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About the FCS Certification

The FATCA & CRS Specialist (FCS) certification provides comprehensive training on implementing and managing international tax compliance frameworks, specifically the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) and the Common Reporting Standard (CRS).

Through this program, learners gain practical understanding of entity classification, due diligence, reporting obligations, and compliance management systems that align with IRS and OECD standards.

The FCS certification is globally respected and is an essential qualification for professionals responsible for cross-border tax compliance within financial institutions and regulatory authorities.

Overview

  • Duration: 13 Hours Reading | 26 Hours Self-Study
  • Format: Virtual | Self-Study (Online Proctored Exam)
  • Exam Duration: 60 Minutes | 50 Multiple Choice Questions
  • Pass Mark: 75 / 100
  • Certification: GCI-Accredited International Qualification (CPD-Compatible)
  • Program Fee: USD 499
What You’ll Learn (Modules & Topics)

The course is structured into Five comprehensive chapters:

1. FATCA Agreements & Scope

      • Understand the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) and its global objectives.
      • Learn about different agreement models: Model 1 IGA, Model 2 IGA, and FFI Agreements.
      • Classify entities and determine FATCA applicability.
      • Identify the key compliance requirements and obligations for financial institutions.

2. FATCA Registration Process

      • Explore the online FATCA registration system and account setup.
      • Understand the Financial Institution (FI) types and registration lifecycle.
      • Learn how to obtain and manage FATCA IDs, authorized users, and data security measures.
      • Study the renewal and certification process, including non-compliance consequences.

3. FATCA Implementation (Documentation & Due Diligence)

      • Build a compliance framework for FATCA implementation.
      • Identify reportable accounts and understand due diligence for both individual and entity accounts.
      • Learn about documentation forms such as Form W-9, W-8BEN, and W-8BEN-E.
      • Gain insight into pre-existing vs. new accounts, secrecy waivers, and validation procedures.

4. FATCA Reporting

      • Understand the reporting requirements under FATCA.
      • Learn to prepare various reports:
          • Reporting Entity Information
          • Account Holder / Payee Information
          • Owner or Shareholder Reporting
          • Financial Payment Reporting
          • Pooled Reporting (Recalcitrant Accounts)
          • Nil Reporting

      • Study reporting timelines, structure, and practical submission tips.

5. Common Reporting Standard (CRS)

      • Understand the OECD Common Reporting Standard (CRS) framework and objectives.
      • Learn how jurisdictions collect and exchange information for tax transparency.
      • Apply CRS due diligence for pre-existing and new accounts (individual and entity).
      • Distinguish between low-value and high-value accounts and curing procedures.
      • Compare FATCA vs CRS – similarities, differences, and global compliance implications.
      • Gain practical insights for preparing and submitting CRS reports efficiently.

In an era of global tax transparency and cross-border financial accountability, compliance with FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act) and CRS (Common Reporting Standard) is a legal and strategic necessity for financial institutions and professionals alike.

The FCS certification empowers you to navigate these complex frameworks confidently, ensuring your institution meets international standards while avoiding regulatory penalties.

Here’s why this course matters:

      • Global Regulatory Alignment: FATCA and CRS are key international standards driving financial transparency and tax cooperation.
      • Compliance Risk Mitigation: Institutions face severe penalties and reputational damage for inaccurate or delayed reporting — skilled professionals help prevent these risks.
      • Career Growth & Recognition: Certified FATCA/CRS specialists are in high demand across banking, insurance, investment, and regulatory sectors worldwide.
      • Practical, Career-Focused Learning: The FCS program bridges theoretical understanding with real-world application — helping you implement effective reporting frameworks.
      • Strengthen Institutional Integrity: Build systems that ensure accurate data collection, reporting, and compliance with IRS and OECD guidelines.

By completing this course, you’ll be equipped to lead FATCA and CRS compliance initiatives, making you a trusted specialist in global financial reporting and governance.

The FATCA & CRS Specialist (FCS) certification is ideal for professionals and organisations involved in financial compliance, taxation, and regulatory reporting.

This course is specifically designed for:

      • FATCA & CRS Responsible Officers – professionals overseeing tax reporting and compliance operations.
      • Compliance & Risk Management Professionals – ensuring institutional adherence to FATCA and CRS requirements.
      • Banking, Insurance, and Financial Services Staff – working in reporting, documentation, or customer onboarding roles.
      • Auditors, Accountants, and Tax Consultants – supporting institutions in FATCA/CRS readiness and certification.
      • Regulators, FIU & Treasury Department Officials – monitoring financial institution compliance frameworks.
      • Legal Advisors & Consultants – providing guidance on cross-border taxation and data reporting obligations.
      • System Providers or IT Professionals – involved in developing FATCA/CRS reporting or data management solutions.

Whether you work in a financial institution, consulting firm, or government authority, this program will enhance your ability to interpret, apply, and manage FATCA and CRS requirements effectively.

The FATCA & CRS Specialist (FCS) certification offers significant professional and organisational advantages — combining international recognition with practical, career-oriented learning.

For Professionals

      • Global Recognition: Earn a GCI-accredited, CPD-compatible certification respected by employers and regulators worldwide.
      • Career Advancement: Strengthen your credentials and qualify for specialised roles in compliance, tax reporting, and regulatory operations.
      • Practical Knowledge: Gain hands-on understanding of FATCA & CRS implementation, documentation, and reporting requirements.
      • Confidence in Compliance: Learn to interpret complex international tax laws and apply them effectively in real scenarios.
      • Enhanced Employability: Position yourself as a sought-after professional in banking, finance, auditing, and tax advisory sectors.

For Organisations

      • Stronger Compliance Frameworks: Build institutional capacity to manage FATCA & CRS obligations effectively.
      • Reduced Regulatory Risk: Minimise the likelihood of non-compliance penalties and reputational damage.
      • Improved Reporting Accuracy: Ensure consistency and reliability in data collection and reporting processes.
      • Skilled Workforce Development: Upskill teams to meet international standards and strengthen operational governance.

 

The FATCA & CRS Specialist (FCS) certification is awarded by GCI – Global Compliance Institute, an internationally recognised leader in financial crime prevention and compliance education.

GCI is a recognised independent accreditation institute compatible with global CPD principles and is recognised by the London Institute of Banking and Finance (LIBF) as meeting the appropriate academic and quality standards in content, delivery, assessment, and programme management.

The FCS program aligns with major international regulatory frameworks, including:

        • OECD – Common Reporting Standard (CRS)
        • FATF – Financial Action Task Force Recommendations
        • IRS – FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act)

By enrolling in the FCS certification, learners gain access to a globally benchmarked qualification that supports professional growth and reinforces their institution’s compliance credibility worldwide.

“The FCS certification helped me gain a clear, structured understanding of both FATCA and CRS compliance. The examples and practical approach made it easy to apply in my daily work.”
— Compliance Officer, Dubai

“A well-designed program that connects global tax reporting frameworks with real-world practices. The self-study format was flexible and exam-oriented.”
— Tax Consultant, Singapore

“FCS gave me the knowledge and confidence to oversee CRS reporting in my organisation. Highly recommended for anyone working in financial compliance.”
— Regulatory Analyst, Bahrain

The FATCA & CRS Specialist (FCS) certification is an internationally recognised qualification designed for professionals who manage or oversee compliance with the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) and the Common Reporting Standard (CRS).

This program provides a complete understanding of how to implement global tax transparency frameworks, classify entities, conduct due diligence, and manage reporting obligations in accordance with IRS and OECD standards. Learners gain practical knowledge to enhance their institution’s compliance performance and reduce regulatory risk.

Key Program Details:

      • Next Start Date: Ongoing Enrolments
      • Duration: 13 Hours Reading and 26 Hours Self-Study
      • Format: Virtual, Self-Study (Online Proctored Exam)
      • Exam Duration: 60 Minutes, 50 Multiple Choice Questions
      • Pass Mark: 75 / 100
      • Certification: GCI-Accredited International Qualification (CPD-Compatible)
      • Program Fee: USD 499

Upon Completion, You Receive

      • 🥇 Digital Badge – A verifiable, shareable badge that highlights your achievement and professional skills.
      • 📜 E-Certificate – An official certificate awarded by GCI, confirming your status as a certified FATCA & CRS Specialist.

Self-Study Plan (Individual Learners)

      • Access to digital study guide (PDF e-book)

      • Practice exam questions for self-assessment and preparation

      • 24/7 online exam scheduling through the GCI Candidate Portal

      • Digital badge and e-certificate awarded instantly upon passing

      • Includes 1-year GCI membership and one free exam retake

Corporate Packages

      • Designed for group enrollments (10+ participants)

      • Option for instructor-led virtual training conducted by GCI-accredited trainers

      • Custom LMS integration and performance reporting for organizations

      • Tailored onboarding and coordinated exam sessions for corporate teams

1. What is the FATCA & CRS Specialist (FCS) Certification?

The FATCA & CRS Specialist (FCS) certification is a globally recognised qualification that provides in-depth knowledge of the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) and the Common Reporting Standard (CRS).
It enables professionals to implement international tax transparency frameworks, manage entity classification, conduct due diligence, and handle reporting obligations with confidence.

This program is ideal for professionals working in:

        • Banks, insurance companies, and financial institutions
        • Regulatory and tax authorities
        • Accounting, auditing, and legal firms
        • Compliance, risk, and reporting departments
        • System providers managing FATCA & CRS data

Typical roles include:
FATCA/CRS Responsible Officers, Compliance Managers, Risk Analysts, Auditors, Tax Consultants, and Regulatory Advisors.

The FCS program covers five comprehensive modules:

      1. FATCA Agreements & Scope
      2. FATCA Registration Process
      3. FATCA Implementation (Documentation & Due Diligence)
      4. FATCA Reporting
      5. Common Reporting Standards (CRS)

Each module combines theory with practical examples to help you apply concepts effectively in real-world compliance operations.

The FCS certification follows a flexible self-study format:

        • Reading Hours: 13 Hours
        • Self-Study Hours: 26 Hours
          Learners can study at their own pace and schedule the online proctored exam whenever they feel ready.

The exam consists of:

  • Duration: 60 Minutes
  • Format: 50 Multiple Choice Questions
  • Passing Score: 75 / 100
  • Mode: Online, Proctored (can be taken from home or office)

You will also have access to practice questions to help you prepare for the final assessment.

Upon successfully completing the exam, you will receive:

  • 🥇 Digital Badge – A verifiable, shareable badge showcasing your certification achievement and skills.
  • 📜 E-Certificate – Official recognition issued by GCI, confirming your qualification as a certified FATCA & CRS Specialist.

Both can be shared on LinkedIn and other professional platforms for career visibility.

Yes. GCI is a recognised independent accreditation institute compatible with global CPD principles and is recognised by the London Institute of Banking and Finance (LIBF) for meeting the highest standards in content, delivery, assessment, and program management.

The certification is respected globally and aligns with OECD, FATF, and IRS compliance frameworks.

Currently, the FCS program is offered in a self-study format.
You can register online, access the digital study guide, and schedule your online proctored exam at any convenient time.

For corporate groups (10+ participants), instructor-led sessions can be arranged through GCI-accredited trainers.

The Program Fee is USD 499, which includes:

        • Access to the official GCI study guide (PDF e-book)
        • Practice exam questions
        • 24/7 online exam scheduling
        • GCI membership and certification upon passing

There are no hidden costs — all required materials and assessment access are included.

Earning the FCS certification allows professionals to:

        • Gain internationally recognised credentials in FATCA & CRS compliance.
        • Strengthen their career opportunities in banking, auditing, compliance, and financial regulation.
        • Build confidence in handling tax transparency reporting.
        • Support their organisations in maintaining compliance with IRS and OECD standards.

There are no mandatory prerequisites.
However, a basic understanding of financial regulations, compliance frameworks, or KYC/AML processes is beneficial for easier comprehension.

You can enroll directly through a GCI-accredited training partner or via the GCI Candidate Portal.
Once enrolled, you’ll receive access to your study materials and can schedule your exam anytime — fully online and on demand.

Learners receive continuous support through the GCI Candidate Portal, which includes:

      • Access to study resources
      • Practice questions
      • Exam scheduling options
      • Certificate and badge download after completion

For additional assistance, you can contact info@gci-ccm.org or your local GCI-accredited training partner.

Other GCI Certifications

CCM – Certified Compliance Manager

Develop strategic leadership skills to design, implement, and oversee comprehensive compliance and ethics programs.

KYCS – Know Your Customer Specialist

Learn global KYC practices, onboarding standards, and customer verification procedures to strengthen compliance frameworks across financial institutions.

AMLS – Anti Money Laundering Specialist

Gain practical expertise in AML laws, risk assessment, and monitoring to detect and prevent suspicious transactions effectively.

SCS – Sanctions Compliance Specialist

Understand international sanctions, embargoes, and screening processes to ensure your organisation remains fully compliant.

RCS – Regulatory Compliance Specialist

Build in-depth knowledge of compliance frameworks, internal controls, and regulatory reporting standards used across industries.

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