FSSAI Food License Apply Online: Registration, Types & Fees

Every food business operator (FBO) in India must obtain an FSSAI food license or registration before starting operations. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issues three types of licenses based on the scale of business. This guide covers the complete online application process.

What is FSSAI Food License?

FSSAI food license is a mandatory registration/license issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It ensures that food products meet safety and quality standards. The 14-digit license number must be displayed on all food product labels and the premises.

Types of FSSAI License

Who is Eligible?

• Any person or entity operating a food business in India
• Manufacturers, processors, packers, distributors, retailers
• Restaurants, hotels, canteens, caterers, food stalls
• Food importers and exporters
• E-commerce food platforms
• Food transporters and storage operators

Documents Required

For Basic Registration

• Passport-size photograph of the FBO
• Identity proof (Aadhaar card / voter ID / PAN card)
• Proof of business premises (rent agreement / utility bill)

For State License

• All documents for basic registration, plus:
• Food safety management plan / self-inspection checklist
• List of food products with brand names
• Blueprint/layout of the processing unit
• List of equipment and machinery
• Water test report from a recognized laboratory
• Partnership deed / certificate of incorporation (for firms/companies)
• NOC from the municipality / local body

For Central License

• All documents for state license, plus:
• Ministry of Commerce certificate (for importers/exporters)
• IEC (Import Export Code) certificate
• List of all business premises across states
• Recall plan documentation

Step-by-Step Online Process

Apply on FoSCoS Portal

1. Visit the FoSCoS portal at foscos.fssai.gov.in
2. Click "Apply for License/Registration" on the homepage
3. Create an account using your mobile number and email
4. Verify OTP sent to your mobile and email
5. Log in to the FoSCoS dashboard
6. Select the type of license (Basic Registration / State License / Central License)
7. Fill in the application form:
   • Business details (name, type, address)
   • Food category and products
   • FBO details (proprietor/partner/director)
8. Upload all required documents in PDF/JPEG format
9. Pay the applicable fee online via net banking, debit card, or credit card
10. Submit the application
11. Note the application reference number for tracking
12. The designated officer will review and may schedule an inspection (for state/central license)
13. Upon approval, download the FSSAI license from the portal

Offline Process

1. Download the application form from the FSSAI website
2. Fill in the form and attach required documents
3. Submit at the nearest FSSAI regional office or designated officer
4. Pay the fee via demand draft

Fees

Note: Fees may vary slightly by state. Check the FoSCoS portal for exact amounts.

Processing Time

• Basic Registration: 7 working days (deemed approved if no response)
• State License: 30–60 days (includes inspection)
• Central License: 30–60 days (includes inspection)

License Validity and Renewal

• FSSAI license is valid for 1 to 5 years as chosen during application
• Apply for renewal 30 days before expiry on FoSCoS portal
• Late renewal attracts a penalty of ₹100 per day
• The renewal process is similar to fresh application

Important Tips

1. Apply before starting food business operations — operating without license attracts a fine up to ₹5 lakh
2. Display the FSSAI license number prominently at your business premises and on all food labels
3. Choose the correct license type based on turnover — applying for wrong category leads to rejection
4. Keep water test reports and self-inspection records updated for renewal
5. For home-based food businesses and cloud kitchens, basic registration is usually sufficient

FAQs

Is FSSAI license mandatory for all food businesses?

Yes. Every food business operator in India must have either FSSAI registration (basic) or a license (state/central) under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

How do I know which FSSAI license type I need?

It depends on annual turnover: up to ₹12 lakh needs basic registration, ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore needs state license, and above ₹20 crore needs central license.

What is the fee for FSSAI basic registration?

The fee for basic registration is ₹100 per year. You can apply for 1 to 5 years at once.

Can I apply for FSSAI license online?

Yes. All applications are processed through the FoSCoS portal at foscos.fssai.gov.in.

What happens if I operate without FSSAI license?

Operating without a valid FSSAI license can attract a fine up to ₹5 lakh and imprisonment up to 6 months under the Food Safety Act.

How long does FSSAI license take to process?

Basic registration takes about 7 working days. State and central licenses take 30–60 days including inspection.

Do I need FSSAI license for home-based food business?

Yes. Even home-based food businesses, tiffin services, and cloud kitchens require at least FSSAI basic registration.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. CitizenNest is an independent platform and is not affiliated with FSSAI or any government agency. Verify fees and process on the official FoSCoS portal. See our trade license guide and shop registration guide for related business requirements.