FSSAI Registration and Licence Online on FoSCoS: Step by Step (2026)
Every food business — from a home baker to a manufacturer — needs FSSAI registration or a licence. Here is which one you need, what it costs and how to apply on FoSCoS.
Official portal: FoSCoS (FSSAI)
Indus Tax is a private CA firm, not affiliated with the Government of India. This guide explains the official process; we never ask for your portal password.
Which FSSAI registration you need
The category also depends on the kind of business — manufacturing capacity, storage, transport, catering and so on. FoSCoS asks questions and tells you which one applies.
| Type | Who | Annual fee |
|---|---|---|
| Basic registration | Petty food businesses with turnover up to ₹12 lakh | ₹100 |
| State licence | Turnover above ₹12 lakh up to ₹20 crore, and some categories by capacity | ₹2,000–₹5,000 depending on activity |
| Central licence | Turnover above ₹20 crore, importers, e-commerce food businesses and other notified categories | ₹7,500 |
Documents typically needed
Requirements grow with the category:
- Photo ID and photograph of the proprietor, partners or directors
- Proof of possession of the premises (rent agreement or ownership proof)
- Partnership deed, MOA/AOA or certificate of incorporation, as applicable
- List of food products to be handled
- For licences: layout plan, equipment list, water test report for manufacturers, food safety management plan and local-body NOC where applicable
How to apply on FoSCoS
The application is fully online:
- 1Open foscos.fssai.gov.in and choose Apply for Licence/Registration.
- 2Select the state of your premises and the kind of business; FoSCoS indicates whether you need registration or a licence.
- 3Sign up with your mobile number and email and log in.
- 4Fill in Form A (registration) or Form B (licence) with business, premises and product details.
- 5Upload documents and pay the fee online.
- 6Note the application reference number and track it on your FoSCoS dashboard; download the certificate once approved.
Verify an FSSAI licence number
Every FSSAI licence or registration carries a 14-digit number that must be printed on food labels and displayed at the premises. To check a vendor or brand, search the number on FoSCoS or the Food Safety Connect app and confirm the name, address and validity.
Renewals and common mistakes
Most penalties come from these:
- Renew before expiry — late renewal attracts a late fee, and a lapsed licence means applying afresh
- Home-based food businesses (cloud kitchens, home bakers) also need at least basic registration
- Staying on basic registration after turnover crosses ₹12 lakh — upgrade to a licence
- Each premises needs its own registration or licence
- File the annual return (Form D-1) by 31 May if your licence category requires it
Need expert help applying this to your situation?
Our CA team reviews your numbers and gives you a clear answer — usually within hours.
