Who Mandatorily Needs FSSAI Central License?
Unlike state and basic categories, certain food businesses require central license regardless of turnover:
Any FBO importing food products into India must hold FSSAI Central License. Mandatory for customs clearance at Pondicherry port and international airports.
Businesses exporting processed food products require central license for APEDA registration and maintaining export eligibility under FSSAI norms.
Food processing units with annual turnover above Rs. 20 crore or manufacturing capacity above specified limits (e.g., dairy plants above 50,000 litres/day).
Food businesses operating in more than two states — including chain restaurants, national distributors and pan-India FMCG companies — require central license.
Catering establishments at railway stations, airlines, ports and armed forces canteens require central license regardless of turnover.
100% Export Oriented Units and units in SEZ/FSEZ involved in food processing mandatorily require FSSAI Central License for export compliance.
Documents Required for Central License
| Document | Required For |
|---|---|
| PAN + Aadhaar / CIN of authorised signatory | All applicants |
| Certificate of Incorporation / MOA / AOA | Companies & LLPs |
| List of food products with category codes (NIC) | All applicants |
| Layout plan of premises (Blueprint) | Manufacturing units |
| Water test report from NABL-accredited lab | Manufacturing units |
| IEC (Import Export Code) from DGFT | Importers & exporters |
| Analysis report of food products | Specific food categories |
| Ministry of Commerce certificate | 100% EOU / SEZ units |
Central License Application Process
Apply on the FoSCoS portal under "Central Licensing Authority." Select the appropriate food category, business type, production capacity and premises details. Central license requires more comprehensive documentation than state license.
Government fee: Rs. 7,500 per year. License can be obtained for 1–5 years. For 5-year license: Rs. 37,500. Payment via NEFT/RTGS or online banking on the FoSCoS portal.
Central license applications are reviewed by FSSAI's Central Licensing Cell in New Delhi. Physical inspection by a Food Safety Officer is conducted for manufacturing units, typically within 30 days of application.
The Central Licensing Authority may raise deficiency queries. We respond to these within the required 30-day window with supporting documents and clarifications.
Central License with a 14-digit FSSAI license number issued by the Central Licensing Authority — typically within 30–60 days. The license number must appear on all food product labels, packaging and invoices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apply for FSSAI Central License
Food importers, large manufacturers and multi-state food businesses in Pondicherry must hold central license. We handle the complete FoSCoS application, inspection coordination and deficiency compliance.