How to Apply for FSSAI Licence in India (2024–2025 Guide)
Food safety is one of the most crucial aspects of running a food-related business in India. Whether you own a restaurant, food processing unit, catering service, cloud kitchen, or packaged food company, you must comply with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulations.
The FSSAI licence is mandatory for all businesses dealing with the manufacturing, storage, distribution, and sale of food products. It ensures that the food being sold is safe, hygienic, and meets the quality standards set by law.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to FSSAI registration and licence application in India for 2024–2025, including types of licences, eligibility, documents required, and the step-by-step process.
1. What is an FSSAI Licence?
The FSSAI licence/registration is issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It authorizes a business to operate in the food industry legally and ensures compliance with food safety standards.
Every food business operator (FBO)—including hawkers, retailers, restaurants, food transporters, manufacturers, and exporters—must obtain this licence before commencing operations.
2. Types of FSSAI Registration & Licences
Depending on the size and nature of your business, FSSAI offers three categories of registration/licences:
a) FSSAI Basic Registration
- For small businesses with annual turnover up to ₹12 lakh.
- Suitable for petty food businesses, small vendors, home kitchens, and temporary food stalls.
- Registration certificate with a 14-digit FSSAI number.
b) FSSAI State Licence
- For medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
- Issued by the State Authority.
- Applicable to restaurants, small-to-medium manufacturers, storage units, and transporters.
c) FSSAI Central Licence
- For large businesses with turnover above ₹20 crore or operations in multiple states.
- Mandatory for importers, exporters, large manufacturers, and food chains.
- Issued by the Central Authority.
3. Who Needs an FSSAI Licence?
The following businesses must apply for FSSAI registration/licence:
- Restaurants, hotels, cafes, canteens, and bakeries.
- Packaged food manufacturers (biscuits, snacks, bottled water, etc.).
- Home-based food sellers and cloud kitchens.
- Dairy units, poultry farms, and meat processors.
- Food importers and exporters.
- Storage, transport, and distribution businesses dealing with food.
- Caterers, event-based food services, and tiffin services.
4. Benefits of Having an FSSAI Licence
- Legal Compliance – Avoid penalties and legal issues.
- Consumer Trust – Builds credibility and brand reputation.
- Business Expansion – Essential for e-commerce platforms like Zomato, Swiggy, and Amazon.
- Food Safety Standards – Ensures hygiene and quality control.
- Funding & Loans – Investors and banks prefer licensed businesses.
5. Documents Required for FSSAI Licence
The list of documents varies depending on the type of licence:
Basic Registration
- Passport-size photo of the applicant.
- Address proof (Aadhar, voter ID, driving licence).
- Business name and address details.
State Licence
- PAN card of business owner or company.
- Proof of premises (rental agreement/property papers).
- List of food products to be handled/manufactured.
- Identity & address proof of directors/partners.
- NOC from local municipality or panchayat.
- Food safety management plan.
Central Licence
- Import/export code (if applicable).
- List of directors/partners with address proof.
- Certificate of incorporation (for companies).
- Plant layout and equipment details.
- Water analysis report (for packaged water manufacturers).
- Ministry of Commerce certificate (for 100% export-oriented units).
6. Step-by-Step Process to Apply for FSSAI Licence
Step 1: Determine Your Licence Type
- Identify whether you need Basic Registration, State Licence, or Central Licence based on turnover and scale of operations.
Step 2: Prepare Documents
- Gather the required documents as per your licence category.
- Ensure all documents are valid and updated.
Step 3: Apply Online via FoSCoS Portal
- Visit the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in.
- Create an account and log in.
- Select “Apply for Registration/Licence”.
Step 4: Fill Application Form
- Fill out Form A (for Basic Registration) or Form B (for State & Central Licence).
- Provide details such as business name, address, product type, and turnover.
Step 5: Upload Documents & Pay Fees
- Upload scanned copies of required documents.
- Pay applicable government fees (₹100 to ₹7,500 depending on licence type and validity).
Step 6: Inspection by Authorities (if applicable)
- For certain categories, an inspection of the premises may be conducted by the Food Safety Officer.
Step 7: Issuance of FSSAI Licence
- If documents and inspection are satisfactory, the authority issues the licence.
- The 14-digit FSSAI number must be printed on food packages and displayed at the business premises.
7. Validity & Renewal of FSSAI Licence
- FSSAI licences are valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the fee paid.
- Renewal application must be filed at least 30 days before expiry.
- Delay in renewal attracts a penalty of ₹100 per day.
8. Penalties for Non-Compliance
Operating without a valid FSSAI licence or violating food safety standards can result in:
- Fine up to ₹5 lakh.
- Imprisonment in severe cases.
- Product seizure and business closure.
- Blacklisting from food delivery platforms and retailers.
9. Fees for FSSAI Licence (2024–2025)
| Licence Type | Validity | Govt. Fee (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | 1–5 years | ₹100 |
| State Licence | 1–5 years | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Central Licence | 1–5 years | ₹7,500 |
(Professional fees may apply if you hire a consultant for filing.)
10. Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying
- Choosing the wrong category (Basic vs State vs Central).
- Submitting incomplete or expired documents.
- Not renewing the licence before expiry.
- Not printing the FSSAI number on food packaging/marketing materials.
- Ignoring compliance after obtaining the licence (e.g., annual returns for manufacturers).
11. How Professionals Can Help
While you can apply online yourself, many businesses choose to work with compliance experts or consultants. They ensure accurate documentation, faster approvals, and ongoing compliance support. This is especially useful for medium-to-large businesses and exporters.
Conclusion
Applying for an FSSAI licence in India is not just a legal requirement but also a mark of quality and trust in the food industry. With rising consumer awareness and stricter government regulations, having a valid FSSAI registration is crucial for any food business in 2024–2025.
By understanding the types of licences, eligibility, required documents, and application process, businesses can smoothly complete the registration and focus on growing their brand. Timely renewal and compliance with food safety laws further help in avoiding penalties and building consumer confidence.
Whether you are a home baker, restaurant owner, food startup, or large manufacturer, obtaining an FSSAI licence is the first step toward success in India’s growing food industry.