How to Get FSSAI Food License in India
Operating a food business in India requires strict adherence to Food Safety and Standards Authority of India regulations. Whether you are starting a small home-based kitchen or scaling an industrial manufacturing unit, obtaining the correct FSSAI registration is non-negotiable for legal operation and market credibility. This guide outlines the precise pathway to secure your license under 2026 compliance norms.
Before you start
- Valid PAN Card of the business owner
- Proof of address (Aadhaar, Utility Bill, or Rent Agreement)
- Business Registration Certificate (MSME/Udyam/Partnership Deed/Certificate of Incorporation for Pvt Ltd)
Step-by-step
Determine License Category
Assess your annual turnover and production capacity to decide between Basic FSSAI Registration (for small businesses), State License, or Central License. This decision dictates the application portal you will use.
Gather Required Documents
Collect digital copies of identity proofs, address evidence, and business registration documents. Ensure all photos are recent and clearly legible before uploading them to the FSSAI database.
Create PRAN Account on FoSCoS Portal
Register your user account on the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal using your email ID. Verify your mobile number and complete the KYC process to activate your login credentials.
Fill Application Form FSS-1 or FSS-2
Log in to FoSCoS, select 'New Registration', and fill out the specific form based on your license category. Upload all scanned documents carefully as per the system's file size limits.
Pay Application Fees Online
Proceed to the payment gateway within the portal to pay the requisite government fees via Net Banking, UPI, or Credit Card. Retain the transaction receipt for your records as proof of fee submission.
Submit and Track Status
Click submit once all fields are validated. You will receive a unique Application Reference Number (ARN). Use this ARN to track real-time status updates on the FoSCoS dashboard until approval is granted.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Submitting blurry or expired photographs of documents which leads to immediate rejection.
- Incorrectly selecting the license category based on turnover thresholds instead of actual business scale.
- Failing to update contact details after submission, causing missed notifications regarding additional queries.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for FSSAI registration online from abroad?
Yes, you can complete the application process via FoSCoS portal if your business is registered in India. However, a physical inspection by local authorities may still be required before final approval.
What happens after I pay the fees but haven't received an ARN?
If you do not receive an Application Reference Number (ARN) immediately after payment, contact FoSCoS support or your regional FSSAI office with your transaction receipt to resolve technical glitches.
Is a Central License mandatory for online food sellers?
Yes. If you manufacture packaged goods and sell them online across India, you must hold a Central License regardless of the number of states where you operate.
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