FSSAI Central Licence Online Application on FoSCoS
Apply for the FSSAI central licence for large manufacturers, importers, multi-state operators and other specified categories.
Get started Learn moreWhat is an FSSAI central license?
An FSSAI central licence is issued by the Central Licensing Authority to large food businesses and to specified activities that operate beyond a single state. It is a 14-digit licence granted through the FoSCoS portal.
From 1 April 2026, the general turnover bar for the central licence is above ₹50 crore. Some businesses, such as food importers, need a central licence irrespective of turnover. Smaller businesses can look at an FSSAI state licence or FSSAI registration. Importers also need an Import Export Code.
FSSAI central licence at a glance
- Issued by: FSSAI Central Licensing Authority
- General turnover trigger: Above ₹50 crore
- Application form: Form B
- Number format: 14 digits
- Renewal: Not required under the 2026 reform
- Needs it regardless of turnover: Importers and certain central categories
Who needs an FSSAI central license?
Businesses that typically fall under central licensing.
Large manufacturers and processors
Units with turnover above the central limit or with activities listed under the central category.
Food importers
Importers of food products require a central licence irrespective of turnover.
Multi-state operators
Businesses with operations or head office functions across more than one state, as per the Kind of Business matrix.
E-commerce food businesses
Certain e-commerce food operators fall in the central category.
Export-oriented and specified units
Certain units such as 100% EOUs and other listed categories, as notified.
Check before you file
We map your Kind of Business to confirm the correct category and avoid rejection.
Documents required for FSSAI central license
Constitution, authorisation, premises and technical documents.
What our service covers
- Kind of Business assessment and eligibility guidance
- Form B preparation and submission on FoSCoS
- Form IX nomination of person in charge and authorisation review
- FSMS plan and recall plan review
- 14-digit central licence
- Display board and QR code compliance guidance
Documents required
Business and authorisation
- Certificate of Incorporation, MOA and AOA, or partnership deed
- Board resolution or authority letter for the signatory
- Form IX nomination of person in charge
- PAN and ID proof of directors or authorised signatory
- GST certificate, and IEC for importers
Premises and layout
- Proof of premises possession
- Utility bill with owner NOC
- Layout plan showing machinery and hygiene zones
- Water analysis report from an accredited laboratory
Manufacturing and sourcing
- Machinery list with capacity
- List of product categories to be made or imported
- Raw material sourcing documents where applicable
FSSAI central license process
A documented path from eligibility check to grant.
Eligibility and KoB check
We confirm central licence applies to your activity and scale.
Prepare Form B
We build the document set and technical details.
File on FoSCoS
The application is submitted to the Central Licensing Authority.
Scrutiny and licence
Queries are resolved, inspection is supported if required, and the licence is issued.
FSSAI categories from 1 April 2026
Turnover-based categories, subject to Kind of Business rules.
| Category | Annual turnover | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Registration | Up to ₹1.5 crore | Small and micro businesses |
| State licence | Above ₹1.5 crore and up to ₹50 crore | Single-state operators |
| Central licence | Above ₹50 crore | Importers and listed categories need it regardless of turnover |
FSSAI central license FAQs
Straight answers to the questions people search for most.
Who needs an FSSAI central license?
Businesses with turnover above ₹50 crore, food importers and other specified central categories generally need it. The Kind of Business matrix decides the final category.
Do food importers need a central licence?
Yes. Importers generally need a central licence irrespective of turnover, along with an Import Export Code.
Is a central licence valid in all states?
It is issued by the central authority for the category it covers. Premises and activities must match what is declared in the licence.
Does the central licence need renewal?
Under FSSAI’s 2026 reform, periodic renewal is no longer required, though statutory compliance continues.
How long does an FSSAI central licence take?
It usually takes several weeks depending on scrutiny, queries and inspection.
What if my turnover is below ₹50 crore?
You will usually need a state licence or registration, unless your activity falls in a central category.
What are the FSSAI central license fees?
The central licence fee is set by FSSAI and paid on the FoSCoS portal. We confirm the current fee for your activity before filing.