How to Apply for FSSAI Registration

Every Food Business Operator (FBO) in India must obtain registration or licence under the Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

Here's a step-by-step guide to applying, what you need, and what to watch out for.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Decide Type

1. Registration (Basic) for small-scale operators (turnover/capacity limits)
2. State Licence for medium-scale food businesses.
3. Central Licence for large-scale import/export or interstate units.

Go to FoSCoS Portal

1. The portal for application is Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS).
2. Former system (FLRS) is replaced in many states.

Register / Login

1. If new user, register. Existing FBOs log in.
2. Select "Apply for New License/Registration".
3. Choose the correct kind of food business ("Kind of Business") as per your operations.

Fill out the Application Form

1. Form A for basic registration.
2. Form B for State or Central Licence.
3. Provide details: owner name, address, business premises, product lines, turnover, etc.

Upload Documents

1. Documents vary by licence type (State or Central) and kind of business.
2. Typical ones: identity proof, address proof, layout plan, list of food products, water report, NOC etc.

Pay Fee

1. Fee depends on licence type, scale, and turnover.
2. Payment happens via the FoSCoS portal (online methods).

Submit Application

Once everything is filled and paid, submit.

Track Status

Application gives a reference number. Use this to monitor progress on the FoSCoS portal.

Inspection (if required)

Premises may be inspected under regulations.

Licence / Certificate Issued

1. If all is OK, a certificate/licence will be issued with a 14-digit number.
2. Validity: from 1 to 5 years.

Display License

Must display certificate at premises.

Renewal / Modifications

Before expiry apply for renewal. For changes (owner, premises, products), apply for modification.

Key Things to Know

1. Licences and registrations are regulated under Food Safety and Standards (Licensing & Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.
2. FoSCoS portal replaced FLRS in many states since June 2020.
3. Time limits: The Registration certificate should be issued within 7 days after application if no inspection is needed; Licence within 60 days if all required documents and inspection are OK.

FAQs

What is "Kind of Business" (KoB)?

Classification of food business activity you are doing (manufacturer, transporter, retailer, etc.). Determines documents & licence type.

What documents are needed for Central Licence?

Documents like Form-B, identity & address proof, list of products, layout plan, water analysis report, certificate of incorporation (if company), NOC etc.

How is the turnover limit related to the licence type?

Small operators (< Rs.12 lakh/year) may use Basic Registration. Higher turnovers require State or Central Licence.

What if my business spans more than one State?

Then you may need Central Licence for the head office and a separate licence/registration for premises in each state.

Is physical submission of documents needed?

No. Online upload suffices; physical submission is generally not required.

What is the validity of an FSSAI licence/registration?

Between 1 - 5 years, depending on what you choose.

Fee structure?

Fee varies: registration costs are low (example: Rs.100 basic), State licence more, and Central licence highest. Depends on the business category.

Can license be modified?

Yes. If there is a change in premises, products, ownership, etc. Amendment process is available.

What if the application is rejected or returned?

Applicant gets queries or reasons. You must respond within the stipulated time (often 30 days). Otherwise, rejection is final.

What is an improvement notice?

If inspection shows non-compliance, the authority issues an improvement notice. Must comply within the given time.

Can license be cancelled or suspended?

Yes. For non-compliance or failure to act on an improvement notice. Appeal possible.

Do I need an FSSAI licence even if I export food?

Yes, exporters need Central Licence.

What about food vending machines/cloud kitchens?

Those also require a licence or registration depending on turnover & scale.

How do I check the status of my application?

Use the reference number on the FoSCoS portal "Track Application Status". You also get SMS/email updates.

Where can I get help/support?

Toll-free helpdesk: 1800-11-2100 or foscos@fssai.gov.in . The FoSCoS portal has guidance and supporting document lists.