FSSAI License Fees – Cost of Food Business Registration

FSSAI license fees in India range from ₹100 to ₹7,500 per year, depending on your business category, turnover and scale of operations. Businesses must choose between Basic, State or Central licenses, with costs varying accordingly. Along with government fees, additional expenses such as documentation, compliance and renewal charges may apply. Understanding the full fee structure helps you plan costs accurately and avoid penalties.

FSSAI license categories and fee structure

FSSAI license fees vary based on the type of license your business requires, which is determined by turnover, scale and nature of operations. The table below outlines the applicable categories and annual government fees.

What changed in 2026?

The FSSAI updated the turnover limits in 2026 (effective April 1) to simplify licensing and expand coverage for food businesses. 

Factors that determine FSSAI license cost

FSSAI license fees vary based on:

• License type: Basic, State or Central license, where higher categories have higher fees
• Annual turnover: Determines which license category your business falls under
• Nature of business: Manufacturing units may have higher costs than traders or retailers
• Scale of operations: Larger production capacity or multiple units can increase costs
• Multi-state presence: Operating in multiple states may require a Central license
• License validity period: The license can be taken for 1–5 years, affecting the total upfront cost
• Compliance and documentation requirements: Food testing, hygiene standards and documentation also affect the cost
• Use of professional services: Hiring consultants or agencies adds to the overall cost

What are the additions costs involved?

Apart from government fees, businesses may incur:

• Professional/consultant fees: Charges for experts or agencies helping with application, documentation and compliance
• Documentation expenses: Expenses for preparing documents like affidavits, NOCs, layout plans and declarations
• Food safety compliance costs: Investment in hygiene, equipment and infrastructure to meet FSSAI standards
• License modification fees: Charges for updating details such as address, product category or business expansion
• Renewal fees: Applicable when renewing the license after its validity period
• Late renewal penalty: ₹100 per day if the renewal is delayed beyond the due date
• Inspection-related costs: Expenses (if any) for meeting inspection requirements or corrective actions

These costs vary depending on business complexity and readiness.

Eligibility for FSSAI license

Any individual or business involved in the food supply chain must obtain an FSSAI license or registration, including:

• Food manufacturers: Units producing packaged foods, snacks, beverages, dairy products, etc.
• Restaurants, cafes and cloud kitchens: Dine-in outlets, quick-service restaurants and online food businesses operating from home
• Traders, distributors and retailers: Wholesalers, suppliers, along with grocery stores, supermarkets or food shops
• Importers and exporters: Businesses dealing with international food trade
• Caterers and food service providers: Event caterers, canteens and mess services
• Transporters and storage units: Cold storage, warehouses and food transport operators
• Street vendors and small food businesses: Petty food businesses and hawkers

The type of FSSAI license required (basic, state or central) depends on your business size, turnover and operations.

Documents required for FSSAI license

The documents required for an FSSAI license include the following:

Business documents:

• Trade/GST registration or incorporation certificate
• Business details and product list
• Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan
• Layout plan (for manufacturers)
• NOC from local authority (if required)
• Water testing report (for manufacturing units)
• Import Export Code (for import/export businesses)

Applicant documents:

• Identity and address proof
• Passport-size photograph

How to apply for an FSSAI license (step-by-step)

Applying for an FSSAI license is a straightforward online process:

1. Visit the FoSCoS portal
2. Register using your email ID and mobile number
3. Select license type (Basic, State, Central)
4. Enter business details and turnover
5. Upload required documents
6. Pay the applicable fee online
7. Review details and submit the application
8. Track status using the reference number
9. Complete inspection (if required)

Once approved, your FSSAI license with a 14-digit number will be issued.

FSSAI license renewal

FSSAI license renewal is essential to continue operating your food business legally without interruptions. FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years and must be renewed before expiry.

• You should apply for renewal at least 30 days before the license expiry date to avoid penalties.
• The license can be renewed for a period ranging from 1 to 5 years, depending on your business preference.
• The renewal process is completed online through the FoSCoS portal using your existing license number.
• You may need to submit updated business details, an FSMS plan and any revised documents, if applicable.
• The renewal fee remains the same as the original license fee based on your license category.
• A late renewal penalty of ₹100 per day is charged if you miss the deadline.
• If the license is not renewed on time, it may get cancelled, and you may have to apply for a fresh license.

Timely renewal helps maintain compliance and ensures smooth business operations without legal disruptions.

FSSAI penalty for non-compliance

Non-compliance with FSSAI regulations can lead to strict penalties under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Conclusion

FSSAI license fees depend on your business size, category and compliance requirements. By selecting the right license, planning for additional costs and ensuring timely renewal, businesses can avoid penalties and operate smoothly. Using tools like TallyPrime can help manage compliance, invoicing and financial tracking alongside licensing requirements.