Licenses · 6 min read
FSSAI Food License Registration in India: Basic, State & Central (2026)
By the India Law Simplified editorial team · Verified against primary government sources (bare Acts & official portals) · Last updated 2026-05-18
Any food business in India — cloud kitchen, bakery, restaurant, or packaged-food brand — needs an FSSAI registration or license. There are three tiers based on turnover and scale. Here's which one you need and how to apply on the FoSCoS portal.
1The three tiers (verify current limits)
- Basic Registration: for small businesses with annual turnover up to ₹12 lakh — home kitchens, small vendors, petty manufacturers.
- State Licence: for turnover roughly ₹12 lakh up to ₹20 crore — mid-size restaurants, manufacturers, distributors.
- Central Licence: for turnover above ₹20 crore, importers/exporters, or businesses operating across states / at large scale.
2How to apply (FoSCoS)
- Identify your tier from your turnover and business type.
- Register on the FSSAI FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in).
- Upload documents: ID proof, business proof, premises proof, a layout/plan, and a food-safety declaration.
- Pay the applicable fee (varies by tier and duration — verify on FoSCoS).
- An officer may inspect the premises; on approval the licence/registration is issued.
3Avoid common rejections
- Pick the correct tier — applying under Basic when your turnover needs a State licence gets rejected.
- Keep the premises hygienic with documented cleaning and pest-control.
- Ensure your product list matches your actual food category.
- Have a trained food-safety supervisor where required.
Frequently asked questions
Do home kitchens and small stalls need FSSAI?
Yes — even small/home food businesses need at least the Basic FSSAI registration. The tier depends on your turnover and scale.
Which FSSAI licence do I need?
Broadly: Basic up to ₹12 lakh turnover, State up to ₹20 crore, Central above ₹20 crore or for multi-state/import-export. Verify the current limits on FoSCoS.
Can I sell food online without FSSAI?
No. Food delivery platforms require a valid FSSAI number, and selling food online without one is non-compliant.
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India Law Simplified is an AI-assisted research & drafting tool, not a substitute for a licensed advocate or CA. Verify all figures and steps with a professional before acting. Statutory limits and fees change with each Finance Act / notification.