FSSAI License Guide - Step by Step

🏛️ FSSAI License Guide

Complete Step-by-Step Process for Food Business License in India

Types of FSSAI Licenses

🏪 Basic Registration

  • Annual turnover up to ₹12 lakhs
  • Small food businesses
  • Petty food manufacturers
  • Valid for 1-5 years
  • Fee: ₹100

🏢 State License

  • Annual turnover ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores
  • Medium scale food businesses
  • Food storage & distribution
  • Valid for 1-5 years
  • Fee: ₹2,000 - ₹5,000

🏭 Central License

  • Annual turnover above ₹20 crores
  • Large scale manufacturers
  • Import/Export businesses
  • Valid for 1-5 years
  • Fee: ₹7,500 - ₹10,000

Step-by-Step Process

1
Determine License Type
▼

Based on your annual turnover and business type:

  • Calculate your expected annual turnover
  • Identify your food business category
  • Choose between Basic Registration, State License, or Central License

Important

If you're unsure about turnover, it's better to apply for a higher category license as upgrading later involves additional procedures.

2
Gather Required Documents
▼

Essential Documents

  • Form B (Application form)
  • Identity proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport)
  • Address proof of business premises
  • NOC from municipality/panchayat
  • Water test report (if applicable)
  • Medical certificate of food handlers
  • Partnership deed/MOA (for companies)
  • Layout plan of processing unit
  • List of food products to be manufactured

Additional for State/Central License:

  • Food safety management system plan
  • Recall procedure
  • Supporting documents for food category
3
Online Application Submission
▼

Visit the FSSAI Food Licensing Portal:

  1. Go to foscos.fssai.gov.in
  2. Click on "Food Business Operator"
  3. Select "New Registration/License"
  4. Choose your license type
  5. Fill Form B with accurate details
  6. Upload all required documents
  7. Pay the application fee online
  8. Submit the application

Pro Tip

Save your application frequently while filling the form. Keep all documents in PDF format, under 1MB each.

4
Fee Payment
▼

License Fees

  • Basic Registration: ₹100
  • State License: ₹2,000 - ₹5,000 (based on category)
  • Central License: ₹7,500 - ₹10,000 (based on category)

Payment Methods:

  • Net Banking
  • Credit/Debit Card
  • UPI
  • Demand Draft (for offline applications)

Note: Keep the payment receipt safe as it's required for tracking your application.

5
Document Verification & Inspection
▼

After submission, the licensing authority will:

  1. Review your application and documents
  2. Schedule an inspection (for State/Central licenses)
  3. Verify compliance with food safety standards
  4. Check hygiene and infrastructure requirements

Inspection Preparation

Ensure your premises are clean, have proper ventilation, pest control measures, and separate areas for raw materials and finished products.

Timeline:

  • Basic Registration: 7-10 days
  • State License: 30-45 days
  • Central License: 45-60 days
6
License Approval & Download
▼

Once approved:

  1. You'll receive an SMS/email notification
  2. Login to the FSSAI portal
  3. Download your license certificate
  4. Print and display it at your business premises

License Display

The FSSAI license must be prominently displayed at your business premises. For online businesses, display it on your website.

Your license will include:

  • 14-digit FSSAI license number
  • Business name and address
  • Food categories approved
  • Validity period
  • QR code for verification
7
Compliance & Renewal
▼

Ongoing Compliance Requirements:

  • Display license prominently
  • Maintain food safety standards
  • Keep records of food safety training
  • Submit annual returns (for State/Central licenses)
  • Renew license before expiry

Renewal Process

Apply for renewal 30 days before expiry. The process is similar to initial application but may require fewer documents if no major changes in business.

Penalties for Non-Compliance:

  • Operating without license: ₹25,000 fine
  • Late renewal: Additional fees apply
  • Food safety violations: ₹1-10 lakhs fine

Ready to Apply for Your FSSAI License?

Follow these steps carefully and ensure all documents are properly prepared before starting your application.

Visit FSSAI Portal