Central License by FSSAI: Commencing or expanding business in the food industry of India means complying with the laws related to food safety and licensing. Be it processing of packaged food, import…
Central License by FSSAI: Commencing or expanding business in the food industry of India means complying with the laws related to food safety and licensing. Be it processing of packaged food, import of food, e-commerce food business, or food distribution business, it is important to obtain the appropriate food license from the Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to be legally compliant.
An FSSAI Central License is required for a particular category of Food Business Operator (FBO) who crosses a certain threshold of turnover, production capacity, and other conditions.
It is very important to select the right category of license for avoidance of application delays and non-compliance. This article by FSSAI Certificate describes the conditions to be met, documents to be submitted, application fees to be paid, procedure to be followed, and benefits of obtaining an FSSAI Central License in 2026.
Need help with your application? Get Free Assistance.
What Is an FSSAI Central License?
It is a food business license granted through the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) by the authorities concerned under the food safety laws of India.
Eligible large-scale food businesses, including food importers, food exporters, e-food businesses, and other food businesses for which specific central licenses are mandatory, come under this category.
An FSSAI central license does not relieve a food business of other food safety, hygiene, and labeling requirements, including records and other procedures.
Types of FSSAI Registration and Licenses
Food businesses generally fall under one of three licensing categories:
| Category | General turnover threshold under the revised 2026 framework |
| FSSAI Basic Registration | Up to ₹1.5 crore |
| FSSAI State License | Above ₹1.5 crore and up to ₹50 crore |
| FSSAI Central License | Above ₹50 crore |
These are general turnover thresholds, not universal rules for every business. Specific activities, production capacities, and business categories can have separate eligibility criteria. Always check your category on the official FoSCoS portal before applying.
Who Needs an FSSAI Central License?
The requirement for an FSSAI Central License depends on the nature and scale of the business. Common categories that may require central licensing include:
1. Large Food Businesses
FSSAI Central licenses are required by large food businesses whose turnover is above the threshold of the central license.
2. Food Importers
Businesses importing food products, ingredients, or additives for commercial purposes generally require a central license, regardless of the general turnover threshold.
3. Food Exporters
Eligible food exporters, including merchant exporters, may need a Central License under the applicable licensing criteria.
4. E-Commerce Food Businesses
Businesses involved in online food sales may fall under central licensing requirements. The applicable category depends on the business activity and current FoSCoS rules.
5. Businesses Operating in Multiple States
A food business operator with premises in more than one state generally needs a central license for its head or registered office, along with separate licenses or registrations for other premises as applicable.
6. Certain Specialized Food Businesses
Some manufacturing, processing, storage, and other food business activities have eligibility criteria based on production capacity, storage capacity, or the type of food involved.
Before submitting an application, confirm the applicable requirements for your specific kind of business (KoB).
Documents Required for an FSSAI Central License
The documents required depend on your business category and activities. Common documents may include:
- Completed and signed Form B, if applicable .
- A partnership deed or certificate of incorporation, if applicable, to prove the business has been constituted.
- Identity and address proof of the proprietor, partners or directors, if applicable.
- Proof of the business premises, if applicable, i.e. a rent agreement or title deed.
- A list of food products manufactured, processed, stored or handled.
- A layout plan of the food processing or manufacturing unit, if applicable.
- Information on the machinery and equipment, if applicable, with installed capacity.
- A food safety management system plan or a related declaration.
- Water analysis reports, if relevant for the business activity.
- An Import Export Code (IEC) and other related documents, if relevant, for import or export business activities.
Other relevant documents, if required, for manufacturing, importing, exporting, and other specialized food businesses.
Do not rely on a generic checklist alone. Confirm the document requirements for your exact business category on FoSCoS before submitting the application.
Not Sure How to Apply for an FSSAI Central License?
Get expert assistance with eligibility, documents, government fees and the application process. Submit your enquiry today!
Quick Enquiry | Expert Guidance | Easy Application Support
How to Apply for an FSSAI Central License Online
You can apply for an FSSAI Central License through the official FoSCoS portal.
- Check Your EligibilityIdentify your business activity, turnover, production or storage capacity, and operating locations. Use the official eligibility tool to determine the appropriate license category.
- Visit the FoSCoS PortalOpen the official website: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/ Select the option to apply for a new license or registration and follow the instructions relevant to your business.
- Select the Appropriate Business CategoryChoose the right category of business, activity, and premises. Selecting the wrong category would lead to requesting clarification/additional documents/delay in processing the application.
- Complete the Application FormFill up all the fields related to your business accurately. Verify the details of the applicant, business address, nature of business, activities, food categories, and other information. You may make alterations, if required.
- Upload the Required DocumentsUpload the documents specified for your category in the prescribed format. Ensure that the information in the documents matches the application.
- Pay the Applicable Government FeePay the fee shown for the category of license and validity selected. Retain the payment receipt for future reference.
- Track Your ApplicationTrack the status of the application on FoSCoS and respond to the requests made by the authorities for further clarification/inspection.
- Receive Your LicenseIf the application meets the applicable requirements and is approved, the license can be issued. Review the details on the certificate and comply with the conditions applicable to your business.
FSSAI Central License Fees in 2026
The standard government fee for a Central License is ₹7,500 per year under the current FoSCoS fee structure.
| Particular | Government fee |
| Standard Central License | ₹7,500 per year |
| Maximum validity available | Up to 5 years |
| Standard five-year government fee, if charged annually at this rate | ₹37,500 |
Special fee provisions may apply to certain categories, including businesses covered by the separate fee structure for railways or central government agencies.
The amount above is the government fee. If you engage a consultant, professional service charges may be additional.
Always confirm the final amount and available validity options on the official portal before making payment.
How Long Does It Take to Get an FSSAI Central License?
The processing time can vary according to the business category, completeness of the application, document verification, inspection requirements, and any additional information requested by the authorities.
Applications with missing documents or inconsistent details may take longer to process.
To avoid unnecessary delays:
- Verify your eligibility before applying.
- Prepare the required documents in advance.
- Ensure the application details are accurate.
- Monitor application updates regularly.
- Respond to clarification requests within the specified time.
Avoid relying on a guaranteed approval timeline unless it is confirmed for your particular application.
Benefits of an FSSAI Central License
Obtaining the correct FSSAI Central License offers several important benefits to eligible food businesses.
Regulatory Compliance
The license helps businesses meet the applicable licensing requirements for their activities and scale of operations.
Improved Business Credibility
A valid license can provide customers, suppliers, and business partners with greater confidence that the business has obtained the required regulatory authorization.
Support for Business Expansion
Businesses entering new markets or expanding their operations can assess their licensing requirements before starting additional activities or opening new premises.
Better Food Safety Management
Undergoing the licensing process encourages greater management attention and control over their documentation, hygiene, food safety practices, and regulatory requirements.
Support for Commercial Operations
Depending on the business category, the relevant license may be essential for carrying out activities such as the import of food products or operating certain online food businesses.
What Happens If You Operate Without the Required FSSAI License?
Acts or omissions of operating a food business without a required license or registration will be considered a violation of food safety laws.
Depending on the situation, consequences may be the imposition of an administrative penalty, operating restriction, or other enforcement actions. Consequences for violation of food safety laws vary and depend on the nature and context of the violation.
It is the responsibility of a food business to find out their licensing requirements before starting a food business or expanding into a new activity.
Why Choose FSSAI Certificate for Application Assistance?
Applying for an FSSAI Central License can involve eligibility checks, document preparation, and online application procedures.
FSSAI Certificates can assist businesses with understanding the application requirements and preparing their documentation.
Our support may include:
- Guidance on the applicable license category.
- Assistance with preparing the required documents.
- Help with the online application process.
- Guidance on responding to application-related queries.
- Support in understanding applicable licensing requirements.
The documents and approvals required will depend on your business activity. Final approval remains subject to the relevant authority’s assessment.
Get Assistance With Your FSSAI Central License
Not sure whether your business needs an FSSAI Central License or a State License? Get guidance before submitting your application.
Conclusion
An FSSAI Central License is an important compliance requirement for food businesses that fall within the applicable Central licensing categories. Understanding the correct eligibility criteria, preparing the required documents, and following the official application process can help businesses avoid unnecessary delays.
Because the licensing framework was revised in 2026, businesses should verify the latest turnover thresholds and activity-specific rules before applying.
For assistance with your application, documentation, and licensing requirements, contact the FSSAI Certificate.
Get Free Assistance Today
Frequently Asked Questions About FSSAI Central License
This license is required for food businesses that are under the Central License category as defined in the applicable FSSAI licensing criteria.
As per the revised general turnover framework, effective from 1 April 2026, the central licensing threshold would generally apply for turnover exceeding INR 50 crore; however, in case of specific business activities, different criteria may be applicable.
The government fee is INR 7,500/- per annum; however, for certain business categories, a special fee may be prescribed.
Usually, a license is issued for a validity of up to 5 years, depending on the options and conditions stipulated in the relevant regulations.
Yes, a small business may require a central license if the activity of the small business is in a category for which there are specific requirements. In such cases, turnover alone will not determine eligibility.
Yes, food importers will require a Central License, irrespective of the general turnover threshold, in case the rules so require.
Yes. Applications can be submitted through the official FoSCoS portal.
The authorities may request additional information or clarification. Missing or inconsistent documents can delay processing, so review the checklist before submitting your application.
From documentation to final approval, our regulatory team handles the entire process for you.