FSSAI Central Licence
FSSAI Central Licence for import, multi-state, e-commerce, and Central-only KoB categories.
FSSAI Central Licence is issued by FSSAI or regional licensing authorities through FoSCoS. Central licensing applies to Central-only activities (importers, notified e-commerce categories, multi-state head offices, and others listed on FoSCoS) and to businesses meeting Central scale criteria for their KoB. Turnover above ₹50 Crore is one trigger for some activities, but importers and certain operators require Central Licence regardless of turnover. Complianceer maps eligibility, prepares FSMS and layout documentation, files Form B Central, and coordinates inspection.
At a glance
- Eligibility: Central KoB or scale criteria; verify on FoSCoS
- Timeline: 30–60 working days (includes inspection and technical scrutiny)
- Government fee: ₹7,500 + 18% GST · Total Government Fee: ₹8,850/year
- Professional fee: Starting from ₹9,999
Who needs this
- Food importers and export-oriented units within Central Licence categories
- Multi-state operators and head offices requiring Central licensing
- E-commerce and notified food business activities assigned to Central Licence on FoSCoS
- Large manufacturers and processors when Central criteria apply to their KoB
Benefits
- Mandatory authorisation for import, large-scale manufacturing, and multi-state operations
- Enables customs clearance of imported food products with valid FSSAI import licence
- Required for export-oriented units to demonstrate food safety compliance to foreign buyers
- Supports FSSAI product approval applications for novel and proprietary foods
- Single Central licence covers all premises declared under the application (with per-premise fee)
Eligibility
- Kind of Business must require Central Licence on FoSCoS (import, multi-state, e-commerce, scale criteria, etc.)
- Importers need valid IEC and FSS (Import) Regulations compliance
- Multi-state operators must declare premises and meet head-office rules on FoSCoS
- Manufacturing premises must meet Schedule 4 and Central documentation requirements
FAQs
Do food importers need FSSAI Central licence?
Yes. Every food importer must obtain FSSAI Central licence before importing food into India. The licence must list imported product categories and source countries. Customs will not clear imported food without valid FSSAI import authorisation.
Can I hold State licence in one state and Central licence for import?
An FBO may hold multiple credentials when activities require it. If Central criteria apply to your overall profile (import, multi-state, notified KoB), Central Licence may be required regardless of turnover in a single state.
What are FSS (Import) Regulations requirements?
Imported food must comply with FSS Act standards, have shelf life of at least 60% remaining, bear English labeling per FSS (Packaging and Labelling) Regulations, and not contain prohibited ingredients. Importer is responsible for product compliance and recall if needed.