01Overview
What is FSSAI registration in India?
FSSAI registration is a legal requirement for eligible food business operators (FBOs) in India under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Businesses involved in food manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, distribution, import, or sale must obtain the applicable FSSAI registration or licence before commencing operations, as required by law.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory authority under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It sets science-based food safety standards and regulates food-related activities to protect public health and promote safe food practices.
An FSSAI food licence is the authorisation issued to food businesses according to their eligibility, scale of operations, and activities. The registration or licence number is generally 14 digits long and must be displayed or printed where required under applicable rules. Obtaining the appropriate licence helps businesses demonstrate compliance, maintain hygiene standards, and build consumer trust.
02Licence Types
Types of FSSAI registration and eligibility
FSSAI has three categories. The applicable category depends on the nature of the food business, its scale of operations, and the eligibility criteria prescribed under FSSAI regulations. Choosing the correct category is an important step.
| Category | Generally applies to |
|---|---|
| Basic Registration | Small food businesses that meet the eligibility criteria, including petty food businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh under the existing framework, such as small retailers, petty manufacturers, hawkers, tea stalls, and home-based food businesses. |
| State License | Food businesses under the State Licensing Authority's criteria, such as medium-scale manufacturers, processors, restaurants, caterers, storage operators, transporters, and distributors, depending on activities, capacity, and turnover. |
| Central License | Food businesses under the Central Licensing Authority's criteria, such as certain large-scale manufacturers, importers, exporters, businesses operating in multiple states, and specified categories. Eligibility depends on business category, not turnover alone. |
03Documents
Documents required for FSSAI registration
The documents verify the applicant's identity, business details, premises, and food-related activities. They may vary depending on whether you apply for Basic Registration, a State License, or a Central License.
- Identity proof: Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, or another accepted identity document of the applicant or authorised person.
- Business registration proof: Certificate of Incorporation, partnership deed, or other applicable business registration documents.
- Address proof: Rent agreement, utility bill, or ownership documents for the business premises, as applicable.
- Photograph: Recent passport-size photograph of the applicant, where required.
- Food Safety Management Plan: Details of food safety and hygiene practices, where applicable.
- Food product details: List of food products or categories handled by the business.
- Business activity details: Information about manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, or sale of food products.
- Declaration forms: Prescribed declarations and supporting documents required for the application.
- NOC or additional approvals: No Objection Certificate or other permissions, where applicable to the premises or activity.
- Previous compliance records: Improvement notices or other relevant regulatory records, if applicable.
- Annual returns: Applicable annual returns for eligible food manufacturers and other businesses required to file them.
04Process
FSSAI registration process in India
The process involves selecting the licence category, preparing documents, submitting an application, and obtaining approval from the food safety authority. It may vary with the type of business and its activities.
Step 1: Choose the appropriate licence type
Determine whether you need Basic Registration, a State License, or a Central License based on eligibility criteria, business activities, and scale.Step 2: Prepare the required documents
Collect identity proof, business details, premises address proof, and other supporting documents for your category.Step 3: Submit the application
Apply through the official Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) (opens in a new tab). Form A is generally used for Basic Registration and Form B for State and Central License applications.Step 4: Pay the government fees
Pay the prescribed fee for the applicable category and validity period. The fee may vary with the licence type and business activity.Step 5: Verification and inspection
The authority reviews the application and documents. Depending on the category and rules, an inspection or additional information may be required.Step 6: Receive the FSSAI certificate
Once approved, you receive the applicable registration certificate or licence. Processing time depends on verification and any inspection or clarification required.
05Portals
Official government portals
FSSAI applications are made on FoSCoS; the FSSAI website publishes the regulations and standards.
06Why Tax Uncle
Why choose Tax Uncle for FSSAI licence registration?
Whether you run a small food business needing Basic Registration or a larger enterprise needing a State or Central License, Tax Uncle helps you understand the requirements, prepare documents, and navigate the application.
Initial consultation
We start by understanding your business activity and scale to identify the appropriate registration or licence category.
Document collection
A checklist is prepared for your business, and documents are reviewed for completeness before the application is submitted.
Application preparation and filing
The application is prepared for submission on FoSCoS, with government fees determined by the selected category.
Tracking and approval
After submission, the status is monitored for updates, additional document requests, or inspection requirements.
Affordable and transparent services
Clear information about government fees, professional charges, and the services involved, based on your requirements.
Support for different food businesses
Restaurants, cloud kitchens, manufacturing units, caterers, retail outlets, and home-based food businesses.