FSSAI Registration: Apply for Food License Online in India

FSSAI Registration is a mandatory legal requirement under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, for all food business operators (FBOs) in India. It is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, a statutory body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Every food business — whether a restaurant, food importer, or home-based food operator — must obtain an FSSAI certificate before commencing operations. The FSSAI registration number is a 14-digit unique number that must be displayed on all food product labels and packaging. The food license online registration process is managed through the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal, which replaced the erstwhile FLRS portal. Read our essential guide on FSSAI registration in India to understand the complete process in detail.

Based on the size, scale, and nature of the food business license India, FSSAI offers three types of registrations. Choosing the right type is crucial for food safety compliance and avoiding penalties. Type Eligibility Annual Turnover Issuing Authority FSSAI Basic Registration Small food businesses, petty food operators Up to Rs. 1.5 Cr Local Authority / Designated Officer FSSAI State License Medium-scale food businesses operating within one state More than 1.5 Cr to 50 Cr State Food Safety Authority FSSAI Central License Large food businesses, importers, exporters, multi-state operators Above ₹50 Crores Central Government / FSSAI HQ

The following food business registration India operators are mandatorily required to obtain an FSSAI food license apply certificate before commencing operations: Food Manufacturers – All units engaged in processing, packaging, or manufacturing food products Food Traders & Distributors – Wholesalers, distributors, and food trader license holders Restaurants & Hotels – All food service establishments including restaurant FSSAI license applicants Cloud Kitchens – Online food delivery businesses requiring cloud kitchen FSSAI registration Food Importers & Exporters – Businesses dealing in food export license India or import operations Home-Based Food Businesses – Home cooks and bakers selling food products online or offline Food Retailers – Supermarkets, grocery stores requiring food retailer license Catering Services – Event caterers and institutional food service providers Food Packaging Units – Businesses involved in food packaging license India operations Dairy & Meat Processing Units – All dairy farms, slaughterhouses, and meat processing plants Read our comprehensive guide on FSSAI registration for food businesses to understand eligibility in detail.

The documents required vary based on the type of FSSAI license registration. Here is a complete checklist: Document Basic Registration State License Central License Photo ID Proof of Applicant ✅ ✅ ✅ Address Proof of Business ✅ ✅ ✅ Passport Size Photograph ✅ ✅ ✅ Business Registration Certificate ❌ ✅ ✅ Food Safety Management Plan ❌ ✅ ✅ List of Food Products ✅ ✅ ✅ NOC from Municipality / Panchayat ✅ ✅ ❌ Import Export Code (IEC) ❌ ❌ ✅ (for importers) Partnership Deed / MoA / AoA ❌ ✅ ✅ Water Test Report ❌ ✅ ✅

The FSSAI registration process step by step is carried out through the FoSCoS portal. Here is how to apply for FSSAI license online: Step 1 – Visit FoSCoS Portal – Go to the official Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal and create an account. Step 2 – Select Registration Type – Choose between Basic Registration, State License, or Central License based on your food business license India category. Step 3 – Fill Application Form – Complete Form A (for Basic Registration) or Form B (for State/Central License) with accurate business details. Step 4 – Upload Documents – Upload all required documents including identity proof, address proof, and business registration certificate. Step 5 – Pay Registration Fees – Pay the applicable FSSAI registration fees online through the portal. Step 6 – Submit Application – Review and submit the completed application for processing by the designated authority. Step 7 – Inspection (if applicable) – The designated officer may conduct an inspection of the food premises for State and Central License applicants. Step 8 – Receive FSSAI Certificate – Upon approval, download your FSSAI certificate from the portal.

For FSSAI State License and FSSAI Central License applications, an inspection of the food premises is conducted by the designated food safety officer. Here is the complete inspection and approval process: Application Submission – Submit the completed application with all required documents on the FoSCoS portal. Scrutiny by Designated Officer – The designated officer reviews the application within 7 working days of submission. Inspection Scheduling – If required, a physical inspection of the food premises is scheduled within 30 days of application. Premises Inspection – The food safety officer inspects hygiene standards, infrastructure, equipment, and food safety compliance measures. Inspection Report Submission – The officer submits an inspection report to the licensing authority within 7 days of inspection. Grant or Rejection – Based on the inspection report, the license is either granted or the applicant is notified of deficiencies to be rectified. Certificate Issuance – Upon successful approval, the FSSAI registration certificate is issued and available for download. Stage Basic Registration State License Central License Application Processing 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days Inspection Required No Yes (if needed) Yes Total Approval Time 7–10 Days 30–45 Days 45–60 Days

The FSSAI registration fees vary based on the type of license and the category of food business. Here is the official fee structure: Registration Type Annual Fee Duration FSSAI Basic Registration ₹100 per year 1 – 5 Years FSSAI State License (Category A) ₹2,000 per year 1 – 5 Years FSSAI State License (Category B) ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 per year 1 – 5 Years FSSAI Central License ₹7,500 per year 1 – 5 Years

The FSSAI license validity ranges from 1 to 5 years depending on the period chosen by the applicant at the time of registration. It is important to track the expiry date to ensure timely FSSAI renewal online and avoid penalties for operating with an expired license. License Type Minimum Validity Maximum Validity Renewal Required Before FSSAI Basic Registration 1 Year 5 Years 30 Days before expiry FSSAI State License 1 Year 5 Years 30 Days before expiry FSSAI Central License 1 Year 5 Years 30 Days before expiry

The FSSAI renewal online process must be initiated at least 30 days before the expiry of the existing license to avoid penalties and disruption of business operations. Streamline your FSSAI renewal process easily with bkauditors.com expert assistance. Step 1 – Log in to the FoSCoS portal using your registered credentials. Step 2 – Navigate to the Renewal Application section and select your existing license. Step 3 – Verify and update business details if there are any changes. Step 4 – Upload updated documents if required for the FSSAI license renewal online. Step 5 – Pay the applicable renewal fees online through the portal. Step 6 – Submit the application and track the status on the portal. Step 7 – Receive the renewed FSSAI registration certificate upon approval. Explore the complete FSSAI Renewal process and ensure your food business remains legally compliant at all times.

Operating a food business without a valid food safety license or violating food safety standards India can attract severe penalties under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Here is the penalty structure for FSSAI non-compliance penalty: Offence Penalty Selling food not meeting safety standards Up to ₹5 Lakhs Sub-standard food products Up to ₹5 Lakhs Misleading advertisements Up to ₹10 Lakhs Unsafe food causing injury Up to ₹3 Lakhs Unsafe food causing grievous injury or death Up to ₹5 Lakhs + Imprisonment Operating without FSSAI registration Up to ₹5 Lakhs + Business closure Violating directions of Food Safety Officer Up to ₹2 Lakhs

You can easily track your FSSAI registration online application status through the FoSCoS portal. Track your FSSAI application status with bkauditors.com for real-time updates. Step 1 – Visit the official FoSCoS portal at foscos.fssai.gov.in. Step 2 – Click on "Track Application" on the homepage. Step 3 – Enter your Application Reference Number received at the time of submission. Step 4 – Enter the captcha and click "Search". Step 5 – View the current status of your FSSAI food license apply application. Step 6 – If approved, download your FSSAI certificate directly from the portal.

Many applicants face delays or rejections due to avoidable errors in the FSSAI registration process step by step. Here are the most common mistakes in FSSAI registration process to watch out for: Choosing Wrong License Type – Applying for basic registration when a state or central license is required based on turnover. Incorrect Business Category – Selecting the wrong food business category leading to application rejection. Incomplete Documentation – Submitting applications without all required documents causing processing delays. Wrong Address Details – Mismatch between address proof and registered business address. Incorrect Food Product List – Not listing all food products manufactured or traded by the business. Missing Renewal Deadline – Failing to apply for FSSAI renewal online 30 days before expiry. Non-Display of FSSAI Number – Not displaying the FSSAI registration number on food product labels and packaging. Operating with Expired License – Continuing food business operations after the FSSAI license validity has expired.

Obtaining a valid food license registration offers numerous advantages for food businesses in India: Legal Compliance – Ensures your business operates legally under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Consumer Trust – Builds confidence among consumers about the quality and safety of your food products. Business Credibility – Enhances the reputation of your brand in the food safety standards India ecosystem. Avoids Penalties – Protects your business from heavy fines and legal actions for FSSAI non-compliance penalty. Easy Loan Access – Registered food businesses can access bank loans and government schemes more easily. Expansion Opportunities – A valid FSSAI certificate is essential for listing on food delivery platforms and expanding operations. Export Benefits – Mandatory for obtaining food export license India and participating in international trade. Government Tender Eligibility – Required for participating in government food supply tenders and contracts. Manage your ongoing compliance with FSSAI Return Filing services to keep your food business fully compliant year-round.

bkauditors.com is India's most trusted business services platform, helping thousands of food business operators obtain their FSSAI registration online quickly and efficiently. Here's why food businesses across India choose bkauditors.com: Expert Guidance – Dedicated team of food licensing experts to assist with FSSAI basic registration, state, and central license applications. Fast Processing – Streamlined documentation and submission ensuring faster approval of your food license online. End-to-End Support – From application filing to FSSAI certificate download, we handle everything. Renewal Assistance – Timely reminders and expert support for hassle-free FSSAI renewal online before expiry. Transparent Pricing – Affordable and clear pricing with no hidden charges for FSSAI registration fees. Real-Time Tracking – Track your FSSAI registration process status through our online dashboard. Compliance Management – Complete assistance with FSSAI return filing, renewals, and ongoing food safety compliance.

Common questions about FSSAI Business License Registration Online in India. Who are exempted from FSSAI registration? Individual members manufacturing or conducting food business activities from home for a registered Cooperative Society or Mahila Udyog or Self Help Group or Gruh Udyog, or any similar government-registered society The Direct Selling entity is willing to take responsibility for its Direct Sellers and has given them written authorization to do so A milkman/vendor registers with a Cooperative Society and sells his whole milk production to that society. The delivery person, direct selling agent, or owner of food vending machines, water vending machines, food ATMs, or food carts. Can we start a business without FSSAI?No. To ensure safe and wholesome food for human consumption, FSSAI Act requires licenses from FSSAI for every food business set up. It’s important for all the Food Business Operators to obtain a 14-digit FSSAI License Number and print it on all the food products they own. To get more details on consequences of starting a business without an FSSAI license under Food Safety Norms.Is GST required for FSSAI?FSSAI, on July 27th, 2022 vide a notice announced that GST at the prescribed rate would be applicable on all services provided by FSSAI like issuing a Central license, Food Safety Mitra Fees, Product Approval Fees, Import Clearance Fees, and so forth will attract an 18% service tax.What is the validity of FSSAI registration?FSSAI registration or FSSAI license is valid for one year or five years, depending on the food license fees paid to the Government.How to renew FSSAI license/Registration after expiry?From October 1, 2021, the FSSAI has mandated for all food business to FSSAI registration or FSSAI license number on invoices and bills. Food Business Operators can renew the FSSAI License/Registration even after the expiry date with the following penalties: Three times the existing annual registration/FSSAI license fee in the period – 1st day to 90th day from the original expiry date. Additional two times of the existing annual registration/FSSAI license fee (i.e., total five times) in the period – 91st day to 180th day from the original expiry date.What is FSSAI Registration?FSSAI Registration is a mandatory authorisation for food business operators in India, ensuring that food products meet safety and quality standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.Who needs to get FSSAI Registration?All food business operators involved in manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, or sale of food products must obtain FSSAI Registration or License based on their business size and turnover.What are the types of FSSAI Registration?There are three types: Basic Registration (for turnover under ₹12 lakh), State License (for turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore), and Central License (for turnover above ₹20 crore).Who issues the FSSAI Certificate?The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issues the certificate after successful registration or licensing of the food business.What details are mentioned on the FSSAI Certificate?It includes the 14-digit FSSAI registration or license number, name of the business, address, validity period, and the photograph of the licensee.How long is the FSSAI Certificate valid?The validity ranges from 1 to 5 years depending on the business’s choice and type of registration/license.Can I operate my food business without an FSSAI Certificate?No, operating without an FSSAI Certificate or valid registration/license is illegal and subject to penalties.How do I get the FSSAI Certificate after registration?After your application is approved and verified by the authorities, the certificate is issued and can be downloaded from the FoSCoS portal or sent via email.How long does FSSAI Registration take?FSSAI Registration is usually granted within 7-15 working days if all documents are correct and the application is complete.How much does it cost to obtain the FSSAI Certificate?The cost varies depending on the type of registration/license—Basic Registration is nominal, while State and Central Licenses have higher fees.What documents are required for FSSAI Registration?General documents include identity proof, business registration certificate, proof of premises possession, food safety plan, list of food products, and bank details.Is FSSAI Registration compulsory for home-based food businesses?Yes, all food business operators, including home-based kitchens and small vendors, must obtain FSSAI Registration.Can I apply for FSSAI Registration online?Yes, you can apply online through the official FoSCoS portal or use expert services like bkauditors.com to simplify the process.How much does FSSAI Registration cost?Basic Registration fees are usually nominal (around ₹100), while State and Central Licenses have higher fees based on the business scale.What is the validity period of FSSAI Registration?FSSAI Registration can be valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the business type and applicant’s choice.What happens if I operate without FSSAI Registration?Operating without FSSAI Registration is illegal and may lead to penalties, fines, or business closure.What is the difference between FSSAI Registration and FSSAI License?Registration is for small businesses with limited turnover, whereas License is mandatory for medium and large businesses with higher turnover.How do I know which FSSAI Registration type I need?It depends on your annual turnover and business scale. Small vendors need Basic Registration; mid-sized businesses require State License, and large businesses need Central License.Can FSSAI Registration be renewed?Yes, FSSAI Registration must be renewed before expiry to avoid penalties and ensure continued compliance.Does FSSAI Registration cover all food products?Yes, it covers all food products, including manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, and sale.Can I display the FSSAI Registration number on food packaging?Yes, displaying the 14-digit FSSAI Registration number on food packages is mandatory for consumer awareness and compliance.Is FSSAI Registration required for food importers and exporters?Yes, all food importers and exporters must obtain FSSAI Registration or License to operate legally.Can I transfer my FSSAI Registration to another business or location?No, FSSAI Registration is non-transferable. You must apply for a new registration if the business ownership or location changes.Can bkauditors.com help me get my FSSAI Certificate?Yes, bkauditors.com provides end-to-end assistance in preparing, submitting, and following up on your FSSAI application to get your certificate smoothly.What is an FSSAI Certificate?The FSSAI Certificate is an official document issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India that certifies a food business’s compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.