How to Apply for an Online Food License in India?

Are you planning to start a food business in India? Your first step should be obtaining an online food license. Once you get it, your business stays aligned with the safety standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Whether you run a small food stall, a restaurant, or a large manufacturing unit, an FSSAI registration helps you to operate a business smoothly and build customer trust. In this piece of writing, you will get step-by-step guidance on how to apply for a food license.

What is an Online Food License?

An online Food license refers to an authorisation given by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to food businesses. Once a business gets a food license, which means FSSAI registration, they have the authority to manufacture, store, distribute, or sell food products.  Food Business Operators (FBOs) can apply for it through the FoSCoS portal. This portal helps to make a register, track applications, and manage compliance online. This portal also helps to make the process smooth and simple for food businesses of all sizes.

What are the Types of Online Food Licenses in India?

Listed below are the three types of online food licenses in India. Each license depends on the size, nature, and annual turnover of a food business:

1. FSSAI Basic Registration

The FSSAI Basic Registration is applicable for small food businesses with an annual turnover of up to Rs. 12 lakhs. It includes petty food vendors, home-based food businesses, hawkers, and small cafes. The registration process is simple for startups and local food entrepreneurs who follow food safety rules. This license is valid for 1 to 5 years and can be renewed after expiry. This license helps small businesses to operate and build customer trust.

2. FSSAI State License

Medium-sized food businesses with an annual turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs to Rs. 20 crores must obtain an FSSAI State License. It is useful for restaurants, caterers, wholesalers, hotels, and food manufacturers operating within a single state. This license helps larger, or higher-earning food businesses comply with state-specific food safety regulations. The validity of this license is 1 to 5 years. Businesses can easily maintain their credibility and compliance through this license.

3. FSSAI Central License

Large food businesses with an annual turnover of more than Rs. 20 crore or those engaged in import/export activities need to apply for an FSSAI central license. This license is suitable for multi-location businesses, importers, exporters, large-scale manufacturers, and online food platforms. It ensures that the food businesses meet national safety standards. This license is required for businesses operating across multiple states or internationally.

Documents Required for Online Food License Application

Listed below are the documents required for the online food license application:

1. Common Documents for All FSSAI Registrations

• Identity and Address Proof of Applicant, such as Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License.
• Passport-sized photo of the applicant.
• Proof of Business Address, including Rental Agreement, Lease Agreement, Utility Bill, or Property Ownership Documents.
• Business Constitution/Type Proof like Certificate of Incorporation (for companies), Partnership Deed, or Proprietorship Registration Certificate.
• Detailed list of all products you plan to manufacture, sell, or distribute.
• Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan
• A self-declaration form as per FSSAI requirements.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local authority or health department, if applicable.
• Water Testing Report for businesses dealing with food or beverages, which confirms the potability of the water used.

2. Basic Registration

• Form A: Duly filled and signed application form.
• A self-declaration stating the nature of the business.
• Food Handler Certificate (If required)

3. State & Central License Documents

• Form B: Duly filled and signed application form
• Layout Plan: Blueprint of the processing unit showing dimensions and area allocation
• Directors/Partners List with contact details and photo IDs
• Equipment and Machinery Details, including numbers and installed capacity
• Water Analysis Report
• Authority Letter from the manufacturer nominating a responsible person
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Local Authority
• Health No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the health department (if applicable)
• List of Food Categories
• Recall Plan If applicable (for Central License)
• IEC & Ministry Certificates: Import Export Code (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce/ Tourism certificates (if applicable)
• Form IX (Nomination of Person)
• Supporting Documents, including Proof of turnover and transportation

How to Apply for an Online Food License in India?

Below is the step-by-step process to apply for an online food license in India:

Step 1: Visit the FoSCoS Portal

Firstly, you need to visit the official FoSCoS portal to apply for the FSSAI registration process in India without any hassle to begin the process of online food license registration.

Step 2: Create a User Account

Then, you must create a new user account by clicking on the “Sign Up” option. Then, you need to enter your full name, mobile number, and email address. You will receive an OTP (one-time password) from the system to check your details. The account will become active and ready for use after verification.

Step 3: Select the Correct License Type

In the next step, you must log in to your account and choose the “Apply for New License/Registration” option to select the correct license type. You must select the correct license type according to your needs. The option can include Basic registration, State license, or a central license. If you choose the wrong license type, it can lead to unnecessary delays in applying for an FSSAI registration.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

You must fill out and submit the application form with the required information. You can use Form A for Basic Registration and Form B for a State or Central License . The required information can include the business name, address, contact details, type of food business, number of employees, production capacity, and other required details.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

Then, you need to submit all the relevant scanned documents, such as identity proof, address proof, business registration certificate, and other required documents as mentioned above. You must keep each file under 2 MB.

Step 6: Pay the License Fees

Next, you must pay the applicable FSSAI registration fees online. You will receive an Application Reference Number (ARN) after you complete your payment. You can easily check and track the status of your application.

Step 7: Review and Inspection

The authorities will review your submitted application and documents carefully. If required, they may come to your place to review hygiene and safety standards for State and Central Licenses. You need to resolve your issues on time for smooth operations.

Step 8: License Approval and Download

Once approved, you must log in to the FoSCoS portal and download the online food license. The FSSAI registration certificate contains a unique 14-digit registration number. You can also save it in a PDF format. This certificate confirms that your business meets all food safety rules.

FSSAI Registration Fees in India

FSSAI registration fees in India depend on the type of license, the scale, and the annual turnover of the food business. The cost of Basic Registration is Rs. 100 per year, which is applicable to small businesses with limited turnover. State Licenses cost range between Rs. 2,000 and Rs. 5,000 annually, which depends on the business activities and size. Central licenses cost around Rs. 7,500 per year for larger operations. The cost differs by state and food activity. You must always check the exact fee through the FoSCoS portal for the latest update.

Benefits of Applying for an Online Food License

Here are the key benefits of applying for an online food license:

• Quick and Convenient Process

You can easily apply for a food license through the FoSCoS portal from any location and at any time. It helps to reduce the time spent in long queues and to reduce the number of visits to multiple government offices. This also helps to make the process simple and hassle-free.

• Faster Approval and Tracking

The online system helps to keep you updated on your FSSAI registration application. This will help you track the progress and receive approvals quickly instead of manual submissions. You can also perform online food license verification anytime to confirm the validity and authenticity of your FSSAI registration.

• Cost-Effective and Transparent

You can easily view the government fee structure from the portal without any confusion. This helps to prevent unnecessary expenses. It also stops extra middlemen charges. The process stays simple, cost-effective, and fair.

• Regulatory Compliance

A valid online food license confirms that your food business is meeting government standards and regulations. This helps to prevent penalties, strict action, or business closure to keep your business safe.

• Builds Customer Trust

Online FSSAI license registration helps to build customers' trust. It ensures that your business follows government rules on food safety, hygiene, and quality. Displaying the FSSAI logo shows compliance and commitment to quality. It helps to increase consumer confidence, build loyalty, and set your business apart from unregulated competitors.

• Easy Renewal and Modification

You can easily apply for license renewal, modification, or even download a duplicate license from the official FoSCoS portal. This also helps to make long-term compliance simple.

• National Recognition

An online food license gives your business recognition across India. This helps you expand into new markets and build strong partnerships without any hurdles.

Conclusion

Getting an online food license through the FoSCoS portal is an essential step for any food business in India. Once you get this FSSAI registration, it keeps your business aligned with food safety standards, builds customer trust, and supports long-term growth.  If you follow the right process and submit the required documents, you can secure your FSSAI license quickly and smoothly.

If you want to obtain your FSSAI License in a hassle-free manner, get in touch with Online Legal India.

FAQ

Q1. Do I need an online food license if I run a small home-based food business?

Yes, you need an online food license or FSSAI registration for a small home-based food business as per the FSSAI guidelines. It includes home kitchens, tiffin services, or bakers who must get a Basic FSSAI Registration if their annual turnover is up to Rs. 12 lakh.

Q2. How long does it take to get an online food license in India?

A Basic FSSAI Registration is generally approved within 7 to 30 days.  However, State and Central licences may take 30 to 60 days due to more document checks and possible site inspections.

Q3. What is the difference between an online food license and FSSAI registration?

An online food license refers to the digital application process through the FoSCoS portal. On the other hand, FSSAI registration is the actual approval or license issued under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. Both are part of the same process.

Q4. Can I update my online food license details if my business changes?

Yes. The FoSCoS system allows modifications such as changing your address, product category, or adding new business activities without filing a fresh application.

Q5. What if I don’t renew my online food license on time?

If you fail to renew your FSSAI food license on time, it can lead to daily fines, suspension, or even cancellation. You might need to apply for a new license, resubmit all documents, and possibly undergo another inspection. Timely renewal helps to keep your business safe, and trusted by customers.