If you’re running or planning a food business in India, getting your FSSAI licence is one of the most important steps. Whether you bake at home, run a café, operate a cloud kitchen, or manufacture packaged foods, you’ll need to know how to apply, what the fees are, how to handle renewal, and how to check your licence status. This guide walks you through everything you need to know for 2025.
What is an FSSAI Licence & Why It Matters
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) licence, also known as FSSAI registration, is a legal requirement for all food business operators (FBOs) in India.
It serves two essential purposes:
Safety compliance: Ensures your business meets the food safety and hygiene standards prescribed by law.
Trust & credibility: A valid FSSAI licence reassures customers, suppliers, delivery platforms, and regulators that your food is safe and your business is compliant.
Operating without a valid FSSAI licence—or letting it expire—can lead to penalties, business disruptions, and even closure. Having a proper licence is not just a legal necessity; it’s the foundation of a responsible and trusted food business.
Types of FSSAI Licence / Registration
There are three main categories of FSSAI licence or registration. The correct type depends on your business scale, turnover, and area of operation.
1. Basic FSSAI Registration
For small food business operators with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
Suitable for home-based kitchens, petty retailers, small food stalls, or small-scale vendors.
The government FSSAI licence fees for basic registration are very nominal—around ₹100 per year.
2. State FSSAI Licence
Required for businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crore operating within a single state.
Applicable to mid-size manufacturers, restaurants, storage facilities, and distributors.
The FSSAI licence cost ranges between ₹2,000 and ₹5,000 per year depending on the category.
3. Central FSSAI Licence
Required for large-scale food businesses, those operating in multiple states, or with a turnover above ₹20 crore.
Mandatory for importers, exporters, and major food manufacturers.
The annual cost of this licence is approximately ₹7,500 or higher, depending on the business scale.
Choosing the correct licence type is crucial. Applying under the wrong category can make your business non-compliant even if you hold a certificate.
How to Apply for FSSAI Licence (Online Process)
The FSSAI licence application process has become simpler and faster with the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) online portal.
Follow these steps to apply:
Visit the FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in).
Register as a food business operator or log in if you already have an account.
Select the licence type (Basic, State, or Central) based on your business eligibility.
Fill in the application form with details such as business name, nature of operation, location, and turnover.
Upload required documents such as identity proof, address proof, business registration, and food safety management plan.
Pay the applicable FSSAI licence fees online.
Submit the application and wait for verification.
After approval, you can download the FSSAI licence certificate, print it, and display it at your premises. You can also use the licence number for food packaging and marketing.
FSSAI Licence Fees in 2025
Here’s a breakdown of the standard FSSAI licence fees for 2025:
Basic Registration: ₹100 per year.
State Licence: ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per year (varies based on business type).
Central Licence: ₹7,500 per year.
You can choose the licence validity period between 1 to 5 years. Opting for a longer validity helps you save time and reduce the frequency of renewals.
Remember that these are government fees. If you use consultancy services or assistance for filing, there might be additional professional charges.
How to Renew FSSAI Licence in 2025
Renewing your FSSAI licence on time is just as important as obtaining it. An expired licence means you’re no longer legally permitted to operate your food business.
Renewal Process
Log in to the FoSCoS portal using your FBO credentials.
Click on “Renew Licence/Registration.”
Verify your business details and update any necessary information.
Upload required documents such as previous licence copy, updated address proof, and business certificates.
Pay the renewal fees online.
Submit your renewal application.
Once processed, your renewed licence certificate can be downloaded and displayed at your workplace.
Renewal Timeline
You can apply for renewal up to 120 days before the licence expiry date.
It’s recommended to renew at least 30 days before expiry to avoid late fees or penalties.
Late Fee and Penalties
If you fail to renew your FSSAI licence on time:
A late fee of ₹100 per day will be charged until renewal is completed.
Delays beyond a certain period (usually 90 or 180 days after expiry) may require a fresh application.
Operating with an expired licence can result in fines, suspension, or business closure.
How to Check FSSAI Licence Status
You can check the status of your FSSAI licence or any other food business’s licence through the online portal. This is useful for ensuring compliance or verifying a supplier’s credentials.
Steps to Check Licence Status
Go to the FoSCoS portal.
Find the “Search Licence/Registration Number” option.
Enter the 14-digit FSSAI licence or registration number.
The system will display details such as business name, type of licence, issue and expiry dates, and status (Active/Expired).
Regularly checking your licence status helps ensure that your business remains valid and compliant at all times.
Documents Required for FSSAI Licence Application
The specific documentation depends on the licence category, but generally, you’ll need:
Passport-sized photo of the applicant
Identity and address proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
Proof of business ownership or incorporation certificate
Proof of premises (rent agreement, utility bill, etc.)
List of food products to be handled or manufactured
Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan (for manufacturing units)
Keeping these documents organized ensures a smooth application or renewal process.
Benefits of Having an FSSAI Licence
Legal protection: Complying with FSSAI regulations helps you avoid legal penalties and fines.
Consumer confidence: Customers trust food businesses that display an authentic FSSAI licence number.
Business growth: It opens up opportunities to supply to larger markets, retailers, and e-commerce platforms.
Improved quality control: Following FSSAI standards helps you maintain consistency and hygiene in your food products.
Eligibility for export: An FSSAI licence is mandatory for exporting food products from India.
Risks of Not Having or Renewing FSSAI Licence
Operating a food business without a valid FSSAI licence can have serious consequences:
Heavy penalties and fines.
Suspension or cancellation of business operations.
Damage to brand reputation and customer trust.
Ineligibility to sell on food delivery or e-commerce platforms.
Legal action from regulatory authorities.
Keeping your FSSAI licence up to date is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your business.
Tips for Smooth FSSAI Licence Management
Maintain accurate business details and update them promptly on the FoSCoS portal.
Keep a digital and physical copy of your licence certificate.
Schedule reminders for renewal at least 60–90 days in advance.
Train staff on basic food safety and hygiene requirements.
Regularly review compliance updates announced by FSSAI.
Conclusion
Obtaining and maintaining an FSSAI licence in India is not just a legal formality—it’s an essential step toward building a trustworthy and successful food business.
Whether you are a home baker, restaurant owner, food manufacturer, or distributor, you must apply for the right category of licence, pay the required fees, renew it on time, and check its validity periodically.
By doing so, you ensure compliance with India’s food safety regulations, earn consumer trust, and create a foundation for sustainable business growth.
Stay compliant, stay trusted, and keep your FSSAI licence active in 2025 and beyond.
For more information visit : https://www.psrcompliance.com/blog/fssai-license-india-apply-fees-renewal-check-2025
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