FSSAI License Types in India – Complete Comparison Guide
Understanding the different FSSAI License Types is essential for every food business operator in India. FSSAI has designed a three-tier certification system to accommodate businesses of all scales—from small street vendors to large multinational food manufacturers. Choosing the correct type—Registration, State License, or Central License—ensures legal compliance, cost efficiency, and smooth operations. This guide provides a complete comparison of all types of FSSAI license, helping you determine which tier fits your food business in India.
The Three FSSAI License Categories Explained
FSSAI offers three distinct categories of certification based on your business's annual turnover and operational scope:
1. FSSAI Registration (Basic Registration)
Who needs it: Small-scale food businesses with annual turnover up to ₹12 lakh.
Examples: Home-based tiffin services, small kirana stores, street food vendors, home bakers, petty FBOs.
Key Features:
- Simple application via Form A on the FoSCoS portal
- Issued by State Food Safety Officer (Registering Authority)
- 14-digit FSSAI registration number
- Validity: 1–5 years (choose at application)
- Low fees: ₹100 (1 year), ₹500 (5 years)
- No mandatory food safety supervisor
- Fast approval: typically 7–10 working days
2. FSSAI State License
Who needs it: Medium-scale food businesses with annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore, operating within one state.
Examples: Restaurants, cloud kitchens, bakeries, catering services, food manufacturers, distributors.
Key Features:
- Detailed application via Form B
- Issued by State Licensing Authority
- 14-digit FSSAI license number
- Validity: 1–5 years
- Fees: ₹2,000–₹25,000 (varies by category and validity)
- Requires designated food safety supervisor (trained personnel)
- Premises inspection may be conducted
- Processing time: 30–60 days
3. FSSAI Central License
Who needs it: Large-scale food businesses with annual turnover above ₹20 crore, OR businesses operating in multiple states, importing/exporting food products.
Examples: Large manufacturers, multi-state restaurant chains, importers, exporters, e-commerce platforms, national food brands.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive application via Form B
- Issued by Central Licensing Authority (FSSAI Head Office)
- 14-digit FSSAI license number
- Validity: 1–5 years
- Fees: ₹7,500 (1 year), ₹37,500 (5 years)
- Mandatory Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan (HACCP-based)
- Covers all branches/locations under one license
- Processing time: 45–60 days
FSSAI License Types – Complete Comparison Table
| Feature | FSSAI Registration | FSSAI State License | FSSAI Central License |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Turnover | Up to ₹12 lakh | ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore | Above ₹20 crore OR multi-state/import-export |
| Application Form | Form A (simple) | Form B (detailed) | Form B (comprehensive) |
| Issued By | State Food Safety Officer | State Licensing Authority | Central Licensing Authority (FSSAI HQ) |
| Validity | 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 years | 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 years | 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 years |
| Fee (1 year) | ₹100 | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹7,500 |
| Fee (5 years) | ₹500 | ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 | ₹37,500 |
| Processing Time | 7–10 working days | 30–60 days | 45–60 days |
| Food Safety Supervisor | Not mandatory | Mandatory (trained designated officer) | Mandatory (trained designated officer) |
| FSMS Plan | Not required | Recommended for large operations | Mandatory (HACCP-based) |
| Premises Inspection | Rarely | May be conducted by Food Safety Officer | May be conducted |
| Covers Multiple States | No | No (single state only) | Yes (all branches under one license) |
| Import/Export Eligibility | No | No | Yes |
Which FSSAI License Type Fits Your Business?
Choosing the right FSSAI tier depends on your business scale, turnover, and operational scope. Use this decision guide:
Choose FSSAI Registration if:
- Your annual food business turnover is up to ₹12 lakh.
- You operate a small-scale food business (home kitchen, street vendor, small kirana store).
- You want a quick, low-cost certification process.
Choose FSSAI State License if:
- Your annual turnover is between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
- You operate within one state (restaurant, bakery, catering, manufacturing).
- You want to scale operations and hire staff.
Choose FSSAI Central License if:
- Your annual turnover is above ₹20 crore.
- You operate in multiple states (multi-state chain, franchise, e-commerce).
- You import or export food products.
- You want a single license covering all branches/locations.
Pro Tip: If you're near the ₹12 lakh or ₹20 crore threshold and plan to grow soon, consider applying for the higher tier from the start to avoid upgrading later.
How to Apply for FSSAI License – Step-by-Step
Regardless of which FSSAI license type you need, the application process follows these steps:
Step 1: Determine Your Tier
Calculate your annual turnover and check if you operate in multiple states or import/export. Use the decision guide above.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Common documents include:
- Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN) of proprietor/directors
- Address proof of business premises (rental agreement, property deed, electricity bill)
- Business registration documents (if applicable)
- Food category details and product list
- Layout plan of premises (for State/Central License)
- Food safety training certificate for designated officer (for State/Central License)
Step 3: Apply on the FoSCoS Portal
Visit https://foscos.fssai.gov.in, create an account, fill out Form A (Registration) or Form B (License), upload documents, and pay the fee.
Step 4: Track Your Application
Use your application reference number to track status on the FoSCoS portal.
Step 5: Download Your Certificate
Once approved, download your FSSAI certificate and 14-digit number. Display it at your premises and on product labels (if applicable).
Need help? IndiaFilings offers expert-assisted FSSAI registration and licensing services with end-to-end support.
Why Should You Choose IndiaFilings for FSSAI License Types Assistance?
Understanding FSSAI License Types and choosing the right tier can be confusing—especially if you're unsure about your turnover calculation, multi-state operations, or future growth plans. IndiaFilings simplifies the decision with expert-guided support tailored to your business model.
Our team of qualified professionals helps you determine the correct FSSAI tier, prepare all required documents, submit error-free applications on the FoSCoS portal, and track approval until your certificate is issued. We handle end-to-end coordination with FSSAI authorities, ensuring your food business is certified, compliant, and ready to operate. With pan-India support and deep expertise in FSSAI regulations, IndiaFilings is your trusted partner for hassle-free food safety certification.
Ready to choose the right FSSAI license type and get started? Need FSSAI help? Talk to an expert today and apply with confidence.