• Updated: FSSAI Amendment Regulations 2026

FSSAI Central License

Mandatory for large-scale food businesses, importers, exporters & multi-state FBOs. We handle documentation, FoSCoS filing & follow-up so you get your 14-digit FSSAI Central License with zero hassle.

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60 days

Standard processing timeline

1–2 days

Fast mode (sole proprietorship)

1–5 yr

License validity, your choice

₹6,499

+ Govt Fee ₹7500/yr

FSSAI Central License: Complete Guide

An FSSAI Central License is the highest tier of food business authorization in India, issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. If your food business has an annual turnover exceeding ₹50 crore (revised threshold effective 1 April 2026), operates across multiple states, or is involved in import/export, this license is legally mandatory for you. Operating without it exposes your business to severe penalties, product seizures, and prosecution. This guide covers everything — eligibility, documents, fees, the step-by-step FoSCoS portal application process, and the crucial 2026 regulatory updates you cannot afford to miss.

What Is an FSSAI Central License and Who Issues It?

An FSSAI Central License is a statutory food safety authorization issued by the Central Licensing Authority (CLA) of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). It is mandatory for large-scale food businesses, importers, exporters, and multi-state operators under Section 31 of the FSS Act, 2006, and governed by FSS (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, as amended in 2026.

FSSAI operates through a three-tier licensing framework. The Central License sits at the apex of this hierarchy and is required by businesses that have outgrown the State License threshold or whose nature of business inherently requires central oversight.

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FSSAI Annual Return

Basic Registration

Annual turnover up to ₹1.5 crore (post-April 2026 threshold). Form A. Issued by the local registering authority.

State License

Annual turnover between ₹1.5 crore and ₹50 crore (post-April 2026). Form B. Issued by the State Food Safety Department.

Central License

Annual turnover above ₹50 crore, importers, exporters, and multi-state operators. Form B. Issued by FSSAI's Central Licensing Authority.

The license is applied for through the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal at foscos.fssai.gov.in. The same portal is used for tracking, renewal (under older licenses), annual return filing, and modifications.

For broader context on FSSAI licensing applicability across different business types, see our guide on applicability of FSSAI license for food businesses in India.

📌 Compliance Note — 2026 Amendment
The FSS (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Amendment Regulations, 2026, published on 10 March 2026 and effective 11 March 2026 (with key thresholds operative from 1 April 2026), have significantly revised the turnover thresholds. The Central License threshold has moved from ₹20 crore to ₹50 crore. Businesses previously holding a Central License due to the ₹20–50 crore turnover bracket should review their classification.

Who Is Eligible for an FSSAI Central License?

Under the FSS Regulations (amended 2026), a food business must obtain a Central License if its annual turnover exceeds ₹50 crore, or if it falls under specific mandatory categories such as food importers, exporters, multi-state food businesses, certain large manufacturers, and caterers to central government establishments — irrespective of turnover.

Turnover-Based Eligibility

License Type Annual Turnover Threshold (Post April 2026) Previous Threshold

Basic Registration

Up to ₹1.5 crore

Up to ₹12 lakh

State License

₹1.5 crore – ₹50 crore

₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore

Central License

Above ₹50 crore

Above ₹20 crore

Businesses Requiring Central License (Mandatory, Regardless of Turnover)

These business types MUST obtain Central License even if annual turnover is ₹10 Lakh:

Business Type Examples Annual Fee

Importers & Exporters

Food imports from any country, merchant exports of food products

₹7,500

E-commerce Food Platforms

Swiggy, Zomato, BigBasket, Amazon Fresh, Blinkit

₹7,500

Nutraceutical Manufacturers

Health supplements, vitamins, protein powders, dietary supplements

₹7,500

Proprietary Food Makers

Non-standardized food products not covered by FSSAI regulations

₹7,500

100% Export-Oriented Units (EOUs)

Food manufacturing exclusively for export markets

₹7,500

Five-Star & Above Hotels

Premium hotel chains with 5+ star ratings

₹7,500

Multi-State Head Offices

Companies with food business operations in multiple states

₹7,500

FSSAI Central License Fee

₹ 6500/ + ⚖️ Govt fee: ₹7500/year
  • Document preparation & review
  • Online application filing (FoSCoS)
  • Query & clarification handling
  • Follow-up till license issued
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Governement Fee for FSSAI Central License

The government fee for an FSSAI Central License is INR 7,500 per year.

This fee is applicable for new applications, renewals, and modifications of the Central License.

Additional points to note regarding FSSAI license fees:

  • The license can be applied for a maximum period of 5 years. The total fee payable will be INR 7,500 multiplied by the number of years selected.
  • For a duplicate license, the fee is 10% of the applicable license fee.

What Documents Are Required for FSSAI Central License?

The FSSAI Central License requires Form B, proof of business entity (MOA/AOA/COI or partnership deed), proof of premises, a Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan, list of equipment and raw material suppliers, Form IX (board resolution nominating a responsible person), IEC for importers/exporters, and geo-tagged facility photographs (mandatory from 2026). Additional documents vary by food business category.

Mandatory Documents for all Food Business Operators (FBOs):

  • Form B: Duly completed and signed application form in duplicate by the Proprietor/Partner or the Authorized Signatory.
  • Photo ID and Address Proof: Issued by a government authority for the Proprietor/Partner/Director(s)/Authorized Signatory.
  • Proof of Possession of Premises: This could be a Sale deed, Rent agreement, Electricity bill, etc.
  • Partnership Deed/Self-Declaration for Proprietorship/Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA & AOA): As applicable based on the constitution of the firm. For MOA, typically the first page (Certificate of Incorporation), second page (Authorization of food business activity), and third page (list of directors with addresses) need to be uploaded.
  • List of Directors/Partners/Proprietor/Executive Members of Society/Trust: With full address and contact details. This is mandatory for companies.
  • Authority Letter: With the name and address of the responsible person nominated by the manufacturer, along with an alternate responsible person, indicating the powers vested in them (assisting officers in inspections, sample collection, packing & dispatch). This is required for manufacturers/processors.
  • Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan or certificate: If available. A self-declaration regarding FSMS is also an option.
  • Declaration Form.
  • Geo Taged photograph of business premises. 

Specific Documents based on the nature of the business:

  • For Manufacturing and Processing Units:
    • Blueprint/layout plan of the processing unit: Showing dimensions in meters/square meters and operation-wise area allocation.
    • Name and List of Equipment and Machinery: Along with the number, installed capacity, and horsepower used. List of Food Category Desired to be Manufactured.  
    • Analysis report (Chemical & Bacteriological) of water: To be used as an ingredient in food, from a recognized/public health laboratory to confirm potability.  
    • Photographs of the production unit (if required).
  • For Relabelers and Repackers:
    • NOC & Copy of License from the Manufacturer (mandatory).
    • Declaration and Undertaking by FBO – Repackagers Only.
  • For Dairy Processing Units:
    • Source of milk or procurement plan for milk: Including the location of milk collection centers, etc.
  • For Meat and Meat Processing Plants:
    • Source of raw material for meat.
  • For Units Manufacturing Packaged Drinking Water, Packaged Mineral Water, and/or Carbonated Water:
    • Pesticide residues report of water from a recognized/public health laboratory.
  • For Cooperatives:
    • Copy of the certificate obtained under the Coop Act – 1861/Multi-State Coop Act – 2002.
  • For 100% Export Oriented Units (EOU):
    • Ministry of Commerce Certificate.
  • For Transporters:
    • Supporting documentary proof for Turnover or self-declaration of the number of vehicles (mandatory).
  • For Hotels:
    • Certificate provided by the Ministry of Tourism (HRACC) – mandatory for hotels.
  • For Importers and Exporters:
    • Import-Export Code (IEC) document issued by DGFT.
    • Recall plan, wherever applicable, with details on whom the product is distributed.
    • For Exporters: Declaration that products are meant for export only.
  • For Businesses operating in multiple states:
    • NOC/PA document issued by FSSAI (in case of multiple documents, merge them into one for upload).
  • Nomination of Persons by a Company:
    • Form IX: Nomination of Persons by a Company along with the Board Resolution.
  • Proof of Turnover: Supporting documentary proof for turnover may be required in some cases.
  • NOC from Municipality or local body: May be required in some cases.

Important Points to Remember:

  • All documents should be self-attested by the applicant or authorized signatory.
  • Ensure that all mandatory fields in the online application are filled correctly.
  • Scanned copies of the documents should be clear and as per the size and format specified on the FoSCoS portal.
  • The person supervising the production process in manufacturing/processing units must possess the required educational qualifications (degree in Science or relevant technology/management).

How to Apply for FSSAI Central License – Step by Step

The FSSAI Central License application is fully online through the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal. Here is the complete process:

  • Check Eligibility & Determine License Type

    Confirm whether your business qualifies for a Central License based on annual turnover (above ₹20 crore), multi-state operations, or import/export activity.

  • Gather All Required Documents

    Collect mandatory documents including Form B, business identity/address proofs, premises proof, FSMS plan, and category-specific documents based on your business type.

  • Register & Login on FoSCoS Portal

    Create a business account on foscos.fssai.gov.in (the official FSSAI Food Safety Compliance System) and select “Apply for New License” choosing Central License category.

  • Fill Form B & Upload Documents

    Complete all fields in the online Form B accurately, select license duration (1–5 years), upload all scanned documents in the required format and size as per FoSCoS specifications.

  • Pay the Government Fee Online

    Pay ₹7,500 per year (for the chosen duration) online through the FoSCoS Payment gateway. Save the payment receipt / challan for your records.

  • FSSAI Review & Inspection (if required)

    The Central Licensing Authority reviews your application. An inspection of your premises may be ordered if deemed necessary. Respond promptly to any queries or additional document requests.

  • Receive Your FSSAI Central License Certificate

    Download your 14-digit FSSAI Central License certificate from the FoSCoS portal after approval. Display it prominently at your food business premises as required by law. The entire process must be completed within 60 days from application ID generation.

Timeline for Grant of FSSAI Central License

According to the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, the concerned Licensing Authority should issue a FSSAI Central license within a period of 60 days from the date of issue of an application ID number.

How Does the FSSAI Central License Annual Return (FSCR) Work?

All FSSAI Central License holders must file an Annual Return — the Food Safety Compliance Report (FSCR) — on the FoSCoS portal. For FY 2025–26, the deadline has been extended to 15 June 2026. Late filing attracts a penalty of ₹100 per day. Non-filing can lead to license suspension under the perpetual validity framework.
  • Portal: foscos.fssai.gov.in → Annual Return section
  • Applicable To: All Central License holders (manufacturers, importers, processors)
  • FY 2025–26 Deadline: Extended to 15 June 2026 (per FSSAI notification)
  • Information Required: Production data, quantity manufactured/imported, food categories, turnover details
  • Late Penalty: ₹100 per day beyond due date
  • Lab Testing Reports: Manufacturers must upload six-monthly lab testing reports for food products on FoSCoS
📌 Compliance Calendar Tip
Mark your compliance calendar: Annual Return (FSCR) due 31 May each year (FY 2025–26 extended to 15 June 2026). Annual fee payment should be made before the anniversary date of your license issuance. FoSCoS now has integrated compliance tracking — missed deadlines trigger automatic alerts and can result in suspension.

Exemption From Annual Return under FSSAI

  • Food Business Operators (FBOs), including Petty Food Business Operators holding FSSAI Registration Certificate, are not required to submit annual returns.
  • Presently, the provision of annual return submission is not applicable for other Kind of Businesses (Such as Distributor, Wholesaler, Retailer, Storage, Transporter and Food. Services etc.)

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FSSAI Central License — Frequently Asked Questions
An FSSAI Central License is the highest-tier food safety authorization in India, issued by the Central Licensing Authority (CLA) of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It is mandatory for large-scale food manufacturers, importers, exporters, and food businesses operating across multiple states.
The following businesses must obtain a Central License:

• Food businesses with annual turnover above ₹50 crore (effective 1 April 2026)
• All food importers and exporters — regardless of turnover
• Businesses operating in two or more states
• Large-scale dairy units, meat processors, slaughterhouses, and cold storage units
• Catering at railways, airports, seaports, and central government premises
• Five-star hotels and large food service chains
The government fee for FSSAI Central License is ₹7,500 per financial year. This is a non-refundable, annual compliance cost.

Payment due date: Within 30 days from the date of issuance or renewal letter. Late payment of ₹100 per day (up to maximum ₹5,000) invites penalty and automatic license suspension.
As per FSSAI Order dated 13 March 2026 (effective 1 April 2026), Central License is required for businesses with annual turnover above ₹50 crore. The previous threshold was ₹20 crore.

Turnover calculation: Audited financial statements or CA-certified turnover proof for the preceding financial year.
Follow these steps to apply on the FoSCoS portal at foscos.fssai.gov.in:

1. Register and log in to FoSCoS
2. Select your state and district
3. Choose Central License under "New License"
4. Fill out Form B with complete business details
5. Upload required documents (proof of premises, MOA/AOA, FSMS plan, etc.)
6. Pay the fee online (₹7,500)
7. Submit the application
8. Note the application reference number for tracking

You will receive updates on your registered email and mobile number.
Essential documents for Central License application:

Organizational Documents:
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) for companies
• Certificate of Incorporation (COI)
• Form IX (Board Resolution / Nomination Letter)

Premises Documents:
• Proof of premises (rent agreement, property deed, utility bill)
• Geo-tagged photographs of premises (mandatory from 2026)
• Floor plan showing layout of manufacturing/storage areas

Food Safety Documents:
• FSMS Plan (Food Safety Management System) with food recall SOP
• FoSTaC certificate from authorized trainer
• Water quality test report (within last 12 months)
• Equipment list with specifications

Compliance & Financial Documents:
• CA-certified turnover proof (audited for last 3 financial years)
• IEC Certificate (for importers from DGFT)
• GST registration number

All documents must be uploaded as PDF or JPEG on the FoSCoS portal.
The processing time depends on the type of application:

For trading / import-only businesses: 15-30 days after document verification
For manufacturing units: 30-45 days (may extend to 60 days if premises inspection is required)

Factors affecting processing time:
• Completeness and clarity of submitted documents
• Response time to FSSAI's clarifications
• Requirement for premises inspection
• Current workload of the Licensing Authority

Tip: Check your application status regularly on the FoSCoS portal using your application reference number. Incomplete applications are rejected or marked for resubmission.
No periodic renewal is required.

As per the FSSAI amendment effective 1 April 2026, licenses issued on or after this date carry perpetual validity — meaning they never expire. However, perpetual validity does NOT mean no compliance:

Mandatory Annual Obligations:
• Annual Fee Payment: ₹7,500 must be paid by 30 May each year
• Annual Return (FSCR) Filing: Due by 31 May each year on FoSCoS
• Late fees: ₹100 per day (up to ₹5,000 max) for late payment

Non-compliance consequences: Failure to pay annual fees or file returns leads to license suspension.
Form B is the official application form for both FSSAI State License and Central License under the Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011. It is filed electronically on the FoSCoS portal.

Form B captures:
• Business type, name, and proprietor/partner/director details
• Premises address and ownership proof
• List of food products to be manufactured / imported / traded
• Annual turnover
• Food Safety Supervisor's name and FoSTaC certificate number
• Additional business information (group companies, subsidiaries, etc.)

Key point: Errors or incomplete information in Form B is the leading reason for application rejection. Review it carefully before submission.
No. All food importers MUST obtain an FSSAI Central License.

This is a legal mandate under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, regardless of:
• Annual turnover
• Quantity of food imported
• Destination market (domestic or export)

Additional Requirement:
The license address MUST match the IEC (Import Export Code) certificate issued by DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade).

Penalties for non-compliance:
• Fine up to ₹5 lakh under Section 63 of the FSS Act
• Seizure of food products
• Business closure order
Penalties under the FSS Act, 2006:

• Section 63: Fine up to ₹5 lakh + business closure order
• Section 51: Sub-standard food — fine up to ₹5 lakh
• Section 59: Adulterated or unsafe food — imprisonment up to 7 years + fine up to ₹10 lakh
• Late annual fee: ₹100 per day + automatic license suspension
• Closure without intimation within 30 days: Penalty up to ₹25,000
All FSSAI Central License holders (manufacturers and importers) must file the Food Safety Compliance Report (FSCR) on the FoSCoS portal. It covers production data, food categories, import details, and annual turnover. The usual due date is 31 May each year. For FY 2025–26, the deadline has been extended to 15 June 2026. Late filing attracts ₹100 per day penalty.
The 14-digit FSSAI license number must be displayed at:

• Food packaging and labels — printed clearly on all products
• Business premises — prominently visible during all business hours
• Invoices and commercial documents
• Online product listings on e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, Swiggy, and Zomato

Non-display invites a compliance notice and penalty under FSSAI Regulations.
Yes. Modifications can be done through the FoSCoS portal → Modify section. Common changes include address update, addition of food categories, change of business name, or update of the food safety supervisor. From 2026, non-high-risk food modifications are auto-approved instantly on the portal without requiring authority approval.
You can verify any FSSAI license through two official channels:

1. Food Safety Connect App — FSSAI's official mobile app; enter the 14-digit license number to check status
2. FBO Search on FoSCoS — Visit foscos.fssai.gov.in and search by license number or business name

This is useful for buyers, retailers, and institutional purchasers conducting due diligence on food suppliers.
FoSCoS stands for Food Safety Compliance System. It is FSSAI's official online portal at foscos.fssai.gov.in. It is used for:

• New Central License applications
• Application status tracking
• License modifications
• Annual Return (FSCR) filing
• License verification through FBO Search
• Six-monthly lab testing report uploads for manufacturers
Yes. All catering establishments on Central Government premises — including railways, airports, seaports, and defence establishments — must obtain a Central FSSAI License irrespective of annual turnover, as per FSSAI Order No. 3(24)2018/Canteen/RCD/FSSAI dated 12 July 2018.
Yes, an FSMS (Food Safety Management System) Plan is mandatory for Central License applicants. It must include:

• HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) procedures
• Hygiene and sanitation protocols
• Water quality management and testing records
• Pest control records
• Supplier verification and product traceability records
• Food Recall SOP — procedure for withdrawing unsafe products from the market

FSSAI expects a comprehensive, business-specific FSMS plan — not a generic downloaded template.
Yes, in almost all cases. FSSAI Central License and GST registration are two separate statutory compliances. Since the Central License threshold is above ₹50 crore, virtually all Central License holders are required to hold a valid GST registration. Both must be obtained independently. Note that from 18 July 2022, GST is applicable on FSSAI licensing fees paid to service providers.