FSSAI Central License: Who Needs It and How to Apply

FSSAI Central License is the highest-tier food license in India, issued directly by the Central Licensing Authority (FSSAI HQ, New Delhi). It is mandatory for large food businesses with annual turnover above ₹50 crore, all food importers and exporters, e-commerce food platforms, and businesses with multi-state operations.

Who Mandatorily Needs FSSAI Central License?

• Large manufacturers: Annual turnover above ₹50 crore
• Food importers: All importers regardless of turnover
• Food exporters: Businesses exporting food products
• E-commerce food platforms: Selling food under own brand online
• 100% Export Oriented Units (EOU)
• Multi-state operations: Head offices controlling branches in multiple states
• Airport, seaport, and railway canteens
• Defense establishments with food operations
• Large dairy companies operating across states

Government Fee

The government fee for FSSAI Central License is ₹7,500 per year, paid on the FoSCoS portal. Velco Legal India's consultancy fee for Central License starts at ₹4,999.

Documents Required

1. ID proof of all directors / partners / proprietor
2. Certificate of Incorporation or Partnership Deed
3. Memorandum and Articles of Association
4. Detailed layout plan of manufacturing premises
5. List of machinery and equipment with specifications
6. Water source and quality testing certificate
7. IEC (Importer Exporter Code) — for import/export businesses
8. List of all food products with formulations
9. HACCP / ISO 22000 certificate (if available)
10. NOC from local authority

Application Process

1. File application on FoSCoS portal under Central License category
2. Select correct Kind of Business (KOB) — Importer, Manufacturer, etc.
3. Upload all documents (comprehensive document checklist)
4. Pay ₹7,500 government fee
5. Application is scrutinised by Central Licensing Authority
6. Physical inspection may be conducted (for manufacturers)
7. License issued within 30–60 working days

FICS Portal for Importers

Food importers must also register on the FICS portal (fics.fssai.gov.in) for individual shipment clearances. The Central License is the primary license, while FICS handles each import consignment's food safety clearance.

Conclusion

Central License applications are complex and require precise documentation. Velco Legal India's senior FSSAI specialists handle Central License applications with expert precision — from document preparation to inspection coordination. Starting ₹4,999.