How to Get an FSSAI Certificate in India?
17 Dec, 2025
By Online Legal India
Published On 17 Dec 2025
Category FSSAI
An FSSAI Certificate means a compulsory license for any food business in India. It acts as a mark of food safety and legal compliance for this business. This FSSAI registration contains a 14-digit registration number. You can get this certificate through the official FoSCoS portal. This FSSAI registration certification helps to build consumer trust and support business operations. In this blog, you will learn about the key steps to get an FSSAI certificate and more.
An FSSAI registration or licence is mandatory for all food business operators in India, depending on the size and nature of operations. The FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It serves as proof of compliance with food safety and hygiene standards prescribed by FSSAI. These standards have been set by the government body. In other words, it is also known as FSSAI registration or FSSAI license. It helps to keep food safe for customers and builds brand trust.
There are usually three types of FSSAI certificates in India. Each type depends on the size, nature, and annual turnover:
When a food business has an annual turnover of up to Rs 12 lakh, it can apply for a Basic FSSAI registration. It applies to small food business like home-based food sellers and petty manufacturers. It also suitable for small food shops, hawkers, and street food vendors. You can use Form A to register it.
This license is suitable if a medium-sized food business has an annual turnover is between Rs. 12 lakh to Rs. 20 crore. A state license is also apply to the food business that operates within a single state. It applies to restaurants, storage warehouses, caterers, distributors, and small to medium manufacturers. You can use Form B to apply for it.
The Central FSSAI license applies to big or large food business. When a business's annual turnover exceeding to Rs. 20 crore, they can apply for it. It needs to businesses that supply food to railways and airports. It is also useful for food served to government offices or operate in multiple states. You can use Form B to apply for it.
Here are the key documents needed for FSSAI Certificate in India:
Common Documents for All Types of FSSAI Licenses
1. Identity and Address Proof: The documents can include Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, etc.
2. Business address proof, like a rent agreement, lease, utility bill, or ownership papers.
3. Passport-sized photo of the applicant.
4. Business Constitution/Type Proof: It can include the Certificate of Incorporation for companies. Partnership Deed, Proprietorship Registration Certificate.
5. Product catalogue: A detailed list of all products for manufacture, sale, or distribution.
6. Food Safety Management System Plan
7. A self-declaration form as per FSSAI requirements.
8. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local authority or health department, if applicable.
9. Water Testing Report for businesses involved in food or beverages.
Basic Registration
1. Form A: It means a completely filled and signed application form.
2. A declaration that describes the type of business.
3. Food Handler Certificate (if applicable).
State & Central License Documents
1. Form B: Application form completely filled and signed.
2. List of Directors/Partners: contact information and photocopies of photo ID
3. Equipment and Machinery Details: Give quantity and installed capacity.
4. Water Analysis Report
5. Layout Plan: A simple map or blueprint showing the size and area of the food unit.
6. Authority Letter, which is from the manufacturer nominating a responsible person.
7. No Objection Certificate (NOC): From the local authority
8. Health NOC: From the health department, if applicable.
9. Food Categories List
10. Recall Plan: If applicable, for central license holders.
11. Import Export Code (DGFT) and other required certificates, if needed.
12. Form IX: Nomination of a responsible person.
13. Supporting documents include: Proof of turnover and transportation information.
Here are the steps:
You should go to the FoSCoS portal as an applicant to apply for an FSSAI registration.
You should make a new user account by clicking on the "Sign Up" option. Next, you need to put your full name, email address, and mobile number. The system will provide you an OTP (one-time password) to check your details. The account becomes active and ready to use after verification.
Log in to your account and choose the “Apply for New License/Registration” option. This option allows you to choose the correct license type that you need. There are three options—basic registration, a state license, or a central license.
In this step, you must fill out and submit the application form with the required information. You can use Form A for Basic registration. Form B is suitable for a State or Central License. This form requires the details of name of the business, address, phone number and email ID. This also includes the type of food business operation, number of employees, etc, along with documents.
You should submit all the required documents in scanned copies. Each document's file must be below 2 MB. It contains proof of identity, business registration, a list of food products, etc.
Next, pay the applicable FSSAI certificate fee through an online payment. Then, you will receive a confirmation from the portal. It provides you with an Application Reference Number (ARN). You can check the application status with this number.
The FSSAI authorities review your submitted application and documents. These confirm that they meet all food safety requirements. Sometimes, they may conduct a physical inspection at the premises for some businesses. In case any corrections or more documents are needed, they will inform you. This allows you to complete the compliance process.
Once your FSSAI registration will get approved, log in to the official FoSCoS portal. Then, you can download the FSSAI certificate in a PDF format. The FSSAI registration contains a 14-digit number. It indicates that your business follows food safety rules and can operate legally.
Below is the table outlining the FSSAI Certificate Fees in India:
| FSSAI Certificate Type | Applicability | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | For small food businesses with annual turnover up to Rs.12 lakhs | Rs.100 |
| State License | For medium-sized businesses with annual turnover between Rs.12 lakhs and Rs.20 crores | Rs.2,000–Rs.5,000 |
| Central License | For large businesses with annual turnover above Rs.20 crores or operating in multiple states | Rs.7,500 |
Benefits of Getting an FSSAI Certificate in India
Listed below are the key benefits of getting an FSSAI certificate in India:
Every food business in India must follow the Food Safety and Standards Act. If you hold a valid FSSAI certificate, it guarantees that your business meets all rules. This prevents fines and trouble with authorities, which helps you to operate smoothly.
A FSSAI license helps you to display the FSSAI logo and license number on your products and premises. Then, the customers can identify the brand among competitors.
Many institutions, government bodies, schools, hospital, etc should get an FSSAI certificate. This allows to participate in tenders, supply to bigger clients, and expand into new markets. Thus, it opens doors to opportunities.
Conclusion
Getting an FSSAI certificate is the smartest way to keep your food business safe and trusted. You can get this certificate or FSSAI registration from the official FoSCoS portal. This license helps to keep your food business compliant and build customer trust. If you need any type of assistance about it, get connected with Online Legal India.
FAQ
The FSSAI certificate means a compulsory 14-digit registration or license number. In simple words, it is known as FSSAI registration or license. Every food business operator (FBO) must get this certificate. It confirms that the food business follows the safety standards set by the government.
Yes, the FSSAI registration certificate is almost compulsory for all types of food businesses in India.
You can apply for the FSSAI registration certificate from the official FoSCoS portal.
The FSSAI certificate is valid for 1 to 5 years. Yes, you can renew it before expiry.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Online Legal India is a digital platform. If you require legal assistance, we strongly recommend consulting a qualified lawyer or law firm.
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