How Much Does a Central FSSAI License Cost
A Central FSSAI License is a mandatory food safety approval for certain food businesses operating on a large scale, importing food products, or conducting food-related activities that fall under the Central Licensing Authority. The cost of obtaining this license depends on the type of food business, applicable government fees, license validity, and professional assistance charges, if any.
For food manufacturers, importers, exporters, large food businesses, and companies operating in multiple states, understanding the Central FSSAI License fee structure is important before starting the application process.
In this guide, we will explain the Central FSSAI License cost in India, who needs it, its benefits, eligibility, required documents, application procedure, and how Shugam Consultants can help businesses obtain their FSSAI License smoothly.
What Is a Central FSSAI License?
A Central FSSAI License is a food safety license issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) through the Central Licensing Authority.
FSSAI operates under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Its primary responsibility is to regulate food safety standards and ensure that food businesses follow the applicable food safety regulations.
Food businesses that meet specific eligibility criteria under the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, must obtain a Central FSSAI License before commencing the relevant food business activities.
Unlike Basic FSSAI Registration and State FSSAI License, a Central License generally applies to businesses with larger operations, specified categories of activities, or operations requiring central-level licensing.
How Much Does a Central FSSAI License Cost?
Government fee: ₹7,500 per year + 18% GST
As per the fee structure published on the official FoSCoS portal, the government fee for a Central FSSAI License is ₹7,500 + 18 % GST per year. The same fee is listed for new applications, renewals and modifications on the portal’s fee page.
Important 2026 regulatory update: FSSAI’s April 2026 update confirms the Central License fee of ₹7,500 + 18% GST and reports changes to the licensing framework effective from 1 April 2026. The new framework introduces annual fee compliance, so businesses should check the current FoSCoS payment requirements rather than assume that the old one-time, one-to-five-year payment model still applies.
Additional costs to consider
The government license fee is not necessarily the complete cost of getting a license. Depending on the business, additional expenses may include:
- Professional consultancy and application preparation charges.
- Food testing and water testing laboratory charges, where applicable.
- Preparation of layout plans and technical documents.
- Supporting compliance documentation.
- Other approvals or registrations required for the specific business activity.
No. It is the government fee listed for the Central FSSAI License. A consultant may charge separately for document preparation, application filing, follow-ups and professional support. Always request a transparent quotation separating government charges from professional fees.
Who Needs a Central FSSAI License?
A Central FSSAI License is required for food businesses falling under the Central Licensing Authority’s applicable categories and eligibility conditions.
Common examples include:
- Large food manufacturers: Businesses involved in manufacturing or processing food on a large scale and meeting the applicable Central License criteria.
- Food importers: Businesses importing food products into India for commercial purposes.
- Large food exporters: Food businesses falling within the applicable central licensing category for export activities.
- Multi-state food businesses: Companies operating food business establishments in multiple states, where Central License requirements apply.
- Large storage facilities: Businesses operating warehouses or storage facilities that meet the relevant eligibility criteria.
- Large food distributors and suppliers: Businesses involved in food distribution, wholesale and supply activities under applicable central licensing conditions.
- Food transport operators: Transport businesses handling food products and meeting the relevant licensing criteria.
- Special-category food businesses: Certain businesses specifically covered under the Central Licensing Authority’s jurisdiction.
Central FSSAI License turnover requirement
Under the updated framework implemented from 1 April 2026, the turnover-based categorisation is:
FSSAI category | Annual turnover |
Basic Registration | Up to ₹1.5 crore |
State License | Above ₹1.5 crore and up to ₹50 crore |
Central License | Above ₹50 crore |
Important: Turnover is not the only factor. Certain food business activities, such as importing and other specifically notified categories, may require Central Licensing irrespective of the ordinary turnover slabs. Always verify the exact business category and activity on FoSCoS before applying.
Benefits of a Central FSSAI License
Obtaining a Central FSSAI License offers several advantages for eligible food businesses.
- Legal compliance
It helps food businesses meet the applicable requirements under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and related regulations.
- Better business credibility
An FSSAI-licensed business can demonstrate its commitment to food safety and regulatory compliance to customers, distributors and business partners.
- Support for business expansion
A valid license helps eligible businesses operate within the approved scope and meet licensing requirements as they expand their operations.
- Improved customer confidence
Food safety compliance can strengthen consumer confidence in the quality and handling of food products.
- Import and export operations
For businesses involved in international food trade, the appropriate FSSAI licensing is an important part of regulatory compliance.
- Better compliance management
The licensing process encourages businesses to maintain records, follow hygiene standards and establish proper food safety procedures.
- Business partnerships
A valid license can help businesses meet the documentation requirements of distributors, retailers, institutional buyers and other commercial partners.
Documents Required for a Central FSSAI License
The documents required depend on the nature of the food business, its business structure and the activities being carried out. Applicants should prepare the following commonly required documents.
Document | Purpose |
Form B | Completed and signed Central License application |
PAN Card | Identity and business verification |
Aadhaar Card or other ID proof | Proprietor, partner or authorised signatory verification |
Business registration proof | Company incorporation certificate, partnership deed or proprietorship declaration |
Address proof | Proof of registered or operating business premises |
Rent agreement or ownership proof | Verification of business premises |
NOC, where applicable | Permission from the property owner or relevant authority |
Layout plan | Processing unit layout with dimensions and area allocation |
Machinery details | Equipment list, installed capacity and horsepower |
Food category details | Details of food products manufactured or processed |
Water testing report | Chemical and bacteriological analysis for manufacturing and processing units |
Authorisation letter | Details of the authorised person responsible for compliance |
Import Export Code (IEC) | Required for applicable import-related applications |
Turnover proof | Supporting financial documents, where applicable |
Form IX and Board Resolution | Applicable for companies nominating responsible persons |
The official FoSCoS document checklist also specifies additional documents for particular categories, including exporters, importers, hotels, manufacturers and transporters. Therefore, not every document is mandatory for every applicant.
Process to Apply for a Central FSSAI License Online
Obtaining the license is only the beginning of food safety compliance. Businesses must also follow the applicable conditions of their license.
Some important responsibilities include:
- Display the FSSAI license number as required.
- Follow food safety and hygiene standards.
- Maintain relevant purchase, production and distribution records.
- Ensure proper storage and handling of food products.
- Maintain applicable testing and quality control records.
- File annual returns wherever applicable.
- Pay annual license fees within the prescribed period under the updated framework.
- Inform the licensing authority about changes requiring license modification.
2026 compliance note: The 2026 amendments changed the previous licensing validity and renewal framework. Businesses should not rely on old articles that describe every license as having a fixed one-to-five-year validity with a conventional renewal application. Annual fee and other compliance requirements must be checked under the current regulations.
Why Choose Shugam Consultants for a Central FSSAI License?
Applying for a Central FSSAI License involves more than completing an online form. Businesses must select the correct license category, prepare supporting documents, understand the applicable food safety requirements and respond to regulatory queries.
Shugam Consultants provides professional assistance to businesses seeking FSSAI registration and licensing services.
How Shugam Consultants Can Help You
- Eligibility assessment
We help identify the appropriate FSSAI license category based on your business activity and applicable eligibility conditions.
- Documentation support
Our team assists in preparing and organising the documents required for the application.
- Online application filing
We provide assistance with completing and submitting the application through the FoSCoS portal.
- Application tracking
We help monitor application progress and assist with responses to document queries raised by the authorities.
- Compliance guidance
We guide businesses on applicable food safety documentation and post-license compliance requirements.
- End-to-end application assistance
From initial document preparation to application follow-up, we provide professional support throughout the licensing process.
Contact Shugam Consultants
Get professional assistance for your Central FSSAI License.
+91 7303071797
info@shugam.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the government fee for a Central FSSAI License?
The published government fee is ₹7,500 per year for a Central FSSAI License. Additional professional or testing charges may apply depending on the business requirements.
Q2. Is a Central FSSAI License mandatory for food importers?
Yes. Food importers generally require the appropriate Central FSSAI License, subject to the applicable regulatory requirements.
Q3. What is the turnover limit for a Central FSSAI License in 2026?
Under the turnover-based framework effective from 1 April 2026, businesses with annual turnover above ₹50 crore fall under the Central License category. However, specific business activities may require Central Licensing independently of turnover.
Q4. Can I apply for a Central FSSAI License online?
Yes. Applicants can submit their applications through the official FoSCoS portal.
Q5. How long does it take to obtain a Central FSSAI License?
The processing time depends on the application, document verification, inspection requirements and responses to queries. The applicant should track the application through FoSCoS rather than rely on a guaranteed approval timeline.
Q6. Can a small food business apply for a Central FSSAI License?
A small business may require Basic Registration or a State License depending on its turnover and business activity. However, some specified activities can require Central Licensing regardless of turnover.
Q7. Is the Central FSSAI License fee refundable?
Generally, the license application fee is non-refundable. Applicants should verify eligibility and documentation before submitting payment.
Q8. Can Shugam Consultants help with a Central FSSAI License?
Yes. Shugam Consultants can assist with eligibility assessment, document preparation, online filing and application follow-up.
Conclusion: What Is the Actual Cost of a Central FSSAI License?
The published government fee for a Central FSSAI License is ₹7,500 per year. However, the total expense can vary depending on the business category, documentation, food testing requirements and professional consultancy charges.
Businesses should first confirm whether they need a Central License or whether a State License or Basic Registration is sufficient. Choosing the correct category is essential for avoiding unnecessary expenses and application complications.
For businesses that need assistance with the application, documentation and regulatory follow-up, Shugam Consultants can provide professional support throughout the process.
Planning to apply for a Central FSSAI License? Contact Shugam Consultants to discuss your business requirements and get assistance with the application.
Official references
Disclaimer: Government fees and licensing requirements may change through regulatory notifications. Verify the latest applicable requirements on FoSCoS before applying.
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