Get FSSAI License 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.
FSSAI License is one of the most common registrations Indian businesses ask us about. This complete guide covers what it is, who needs it, the documents, the exact process, fees, validity and the penalties for non-compliance — everything in one place.
What is FSSAI License?
FSSAI License is granted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), via the FoSCoS portal under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It is the legal authorisation that lets an eligible person or business operate in compliance with the applicable rules.
Who needs 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
- Home-based food businesses and small food units (Basic Registration)
Benefits of FSSAI License
- Legal authorisation to run a food business and display the FSSAI number
- Builds consumer trust and is mandatory on food labels and e-commerce platforms
- Enables listing on Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon and other marketplaces
- Avoids heavy penalties for unlicensed food operations
Documents required
- 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)
- Water test report (for manufacturers, where applicable)
- Form B duly signed by the FBO
FSSAI License process — step by step
- Determine the right category — Turnover up to ₹1.5 crore → Basic Registration; ₹1.5 crore–₹50 crore → State License; above ₹50 crore or importers/large manufacturers → Central License.
- Sign up on FoSCoS — Create an account on foscos.fssai.gov.in and start a new application.
- Fill Form A or Form B — Form A for Basic Registration, Form B for State/Central License, with business and food-category details.
- Upload documents — Attach ID proof, premises proof, food list and (for licenses) the safety plan and layout.
- Pay the fee — Pay the applicable annual fee online for the chosen tenure.
- Inspection & grant — For licenses, a designated officer may inspect the premises; the 14-digit FSSAI number and certificate are then issued.
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. |
| Professional fee (typical) | ₹1,500 – ₹6,000 depending on Basic / State / Central and number of years |
| 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. |
Penalty for non-compliance
Operating a food business without FSSAI registration/licence can attract imprisonment up to 6 months and a fine up to ₹5 lakh under the FSS Act.
Related guides on FSSAI License
- Documents Required for FSSAI License
- FSSAI License Eligibility Criteria
- 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
What is FSSAI License and who issues it?
FSSAI License is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), via the FoSCoS portal under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Any food business operator (FBO) — manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, sale or import of food.
What documents are required for FSSAI License?
Key documents include: 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).
What are the fees for FSSAI License?
Basic Registration ≈ ₹100/year; State License ≈ ₹2,000–₹5,000/year; Central License ≈ ₹7,500/year — varies by capacity and category. Professional assistance typically costs ₹1,500 – ₹6,000 depending on Basic / State / Central and number of years.
How long does FSSAI License take and how long is it valid?
Basic Registration: 7–15 days; State/Central License: 30–60 days including inspection where applicable. Issued for 1 to 5 years at the applicant's choice; must be renewed before expiry.
What happens if I don't get FSSAI License?
Operating a food business without FSSAI registration/licence can attract imprisonment up to 6 months and a fine up to ₹5 lakh under the FSS Act.