Table of Contents

Documents required for FSSAI food licence (2026)

Direct answer. FSSAI licence required for any food business. Three categories: Basic Registration (turnover ≤ Rs. 12 lakh, Rs. 100 fee), State Licence (Rs. 12 lakh - 20 cr, Rs. 2,000-7,500 fee), Central Licence (> Rs. 20 cr OR multi-state, Rs. 7,500). Documents vary by category. Apply at foscos.fssai.gov.in.

Mandatory documents

Optional / situational documents

Specifications + key rules

Where to apply

Online at foscos.fssai.gov.in → Apply for Licence/Registration.

→ Official source: https://www.fssai.gov.in/cms/license-registration.php

If you don't have all documents

If FSSAI application is delayed beyond 60 days, file RTI to FSSAI Designated Officer for inspection status + sample test results + reason for hold.

→ Use our 🪄 AI RTI Drafter to generate a free §6(1) application asking for the rejection reason in 60 seconds.

Frequently asked questions

Do all food businesses need FSSAI?

Yes if dealing with food in any way. Even home-based catering above Rs. 12 lakh turnover.

Basic / State / Central — which?

Based on turnover: Basic ≤ Rs. 12 L, State Rs. 12 L - 20 cr, Central > Rs. 20 cr OR multi-state OR e-commerce.

Renewal — when?

Apply 30-60 days before expiry. Late renewal NOT allowed; fresh application required.

Penalties for non-compliance?

Rs. 5,000-Rs. 5 lakh under FSS Act §57-59 + criminal prosecution.

Can I sell food online without FSSAI?

No — Swiggy/Zomato/Amazon mandatorily require FSSAI. Direct e-commerce too.

Summary + next steps

  1. Gather mandatory documents above before applying — saves a re-visit
  2. Apply via official portal (link above) — no agent needed
  3. Track status: see our status-check guides
  4. If rejected for “documents inadequate”: request specific deficiency under §4(1)(d) RTI Act
  5. For state-specific guidance: see state portals directory

All RTI Wiki tools (free, no login)

Sources

Last reviewed: 25 April 2026.