Starting a food business in India—whether it's a small fast-food stall, a home bakery, or a large restaurant—requires one essential document: the FSSAI License.
Many new entrepreneurs worry that getting a government license is difficult and requires agents. The good news? The process is now 100% online through the FoSCoS portal, and for most small businesses, it costs as little as ₹100 per year.
In this guide, we will walk you through exactly how to apply for a food license online, which documents you need, and how to choose the right category for your business.
Do You Need a Registration or a License?
Before you apply, you must know the difference between a "Registration" and a "License." This depends on your annual turnover (total sales per year).
1. FSSAI Basic Registration (Form A)
For whom: Petty food manufacturers, small stalls, hawkers, and home-based businesses.
Turnover: Less than ₹12 Lakhs per year.
Fee: ₹100 per year.
2 Most beginners start here.
2. FSSAI State License (Form B)
For whom: Mid-sized restaurants, hotels, and food manufacturers.
Turnover: Between ₹12 Lakhs and ₹20 Crores per year.
3 Fee: ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per year (depending on the business type).
4
3. FSSAI Central License (Form B)
For whom: Large manufacturers, importers, exporters, and chains operating in multiple states.
Turnover: More than ₹20 Crores per year.
Fee: ₹7,500 per year.
Documents Required for FSSAI Registration
To avoid rejection, keep these documents ready in PDF or JPEG format before you log in to the portal.
For Basic Registration (Small Business):
Photo: Passport-sized photograph of the applicant.
ID Proof: Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Voter ID.
Proof of Address (Business): Electricity bill, Rent Agreement, or NOC from the owner.
Declaration Form: A simple self-declaration that you will maintain hygiene (available on the website).
For State/Central License:
All documents listed above.
Blueprint/Layout plan of the processing unit.
List of Directors/Partners with contact details.
NOC from the Municipality or Panchayat.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for FSSAI Online
Follow these steps to apply via the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) website.
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to the official website:
Step 2: Sign Up and Select Location
Click on "Apply for License/Registration". Select your State (e.g., Delhi, Maharashtra, Bihar) from the dropdown menu.
Step 3: Choose Your Business Group
You will see several categories like "Manufacturer," "Trade/Retail," "Food Services," etc.
For Shops/Restaurants: Choose "Food Services."
For Wholesalers: Choose "Trade/Retail."
Select your turnover limit (e.g., "Turnover up to 12 Lakhs").
Step 4: Fill the Application Form
Based on your selection, the system will open Form A or Form B. Fill in the details:
Name of the Applicant/Company.
Exact Address of the premises.
Contact details (Email and Phone number must be active).
Number of years you want the license for (1 to 5 years).
Step 5: Upload Documents & Pay Fees
Upload your prepared documents. Ensure the text in the images is readable. Proceed to the payment gateway and pay via UPI, Credit Card, or Net Banking.
Step 6: Get the Reference Number
Once the payment is successful, a 17-digit Reference Number will be generated. Save this number! You will need it to track your application status.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does it take to get the FSSAI certificate?
For a Basic Registration, it usually takes 7 to 30 days. State and Central licenses may take up to 60 days as they often require an inspection by a food safety officer.
Q2: Can I apply for 5 years at once?
Yes, you can choose a validity period between 1 to 5 years. However, you have to pay the fee for the total number of years upfront (e.g., ₹100 x 5 years = ₹500).
Q3: Is the FSSAI number mandatory on food packaging?
Yes, once you receive your license, you must display the 14-digit FSSAI License Number on your food packages and at a visible place in your shop.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a food license is a simple process that builds trust with your customers. Don't delay it. Start with a 1-year Basic Registration if you are unsure, and renew it later as your business grows.