FSSAI License Eligibility Criteria explained: this guide covers what it means, who it applies to, the step-by-step process, documents required, fees, due dates and penalties in India — so you can stay compliant with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
Before you apply, it is worth confirming that you actually qualify. This guide explains the FSSAI License eligibility criteria — who can apply, the conditions to meet, and the common reasons applications get rejected.
Who is eligible for FSSAI License
FSSAI License applies to the following, under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006:
- Any food business operator (FBO) — manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, sale or import of food
- Restaurants, cloud kitchens, caterers, retailers, wholesalers and food e-commerce sellers
- Home-based food businesses and small food units (Basic Registration)
Conditions you must satisfy
To qualify for FSSAI License (granted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), via the FoSCoS portal), you typically need to have in place:
- Photo ID and address proof of the proprietor / partners / directors
- Proof of business premises (rent agreement / utility bill / NOC)
- Food category / product list and, for licenses, a food safety management plan
- Blueprint/layout of the unit (for manufacturing under State/Central)
- List of machinery and production capacity (manufacturers)
Common reasons applications are rejected
- Details on PAN, Aadhaar and supporting documents that do not match.
- An address proof that is outdated or does not match the declared premises.
- Choosing the wrong category, sub-clause or form for your activity.
- Missing a mandatory prerequisite registration or approval.
Fees, timeline and validity
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Government fee | Basic Registration ≈ ₹100/year; State License ≈ ₹2,000–₹5,000/year; Central License ≈ ₹7,500/year — varies by capacity and category. |
| Processing time | Basic Registration: 7–15 days; State/Central License: 30–60 days including inspection where applicable. |
| Validity | Issued for 1 to 5 years at the applicant's choice; must be renewed before expiry. |
| Issuing authority | Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), via the FoSCoS portal |
Related guides on FSSAI License
- How to Get FSSAI License (Complete Guide)
- Documents Required for FSSAI License
- FSSAI License Fees & Government Charges
- FSSAI License Process Step by Step
- Benefits of FSSAI License
- FSSAI License Renewal: Process and Validity
- How to Cancel or Surrender FSSAI License
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Talk to an expert →Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for FSSAI License?
Any food business operator (FBO) — manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, sale or import of food. Restaurants, cloud kitchens, caterers, retailers, wholesalers and food e-commerce sellers.
What conditions must I meet for FSSAI License?
You generally need: Photo ID and address proof of the proprietor / partners / directors; Proof of business premises (rent agreement / utility bill / NOC); Food category / product list and, for licenses, a food safety management plan.
Why do FSSAI License applications get rejected?
The most common reasons are mismatched details, an outdated address proof, choosing the wrong category, or missing a prerequisite registration.
Is there a turnover or size limit for FSSAI License?
Eligibility depends on the activity and thresholds under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006; Any food business operator (FBO) — manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, sale or import of food.
How long is FSSAI License valid once granted?
Issued for 1 to 5 years at the applicant's choice; must be renewed before expiry.