How Long Does It Take to Get FSSAI Registration in India?

Obtaining an FSSAI registration in India varies by type. Basic FSSAI license take about 7 days, State FSSAI license take 15-30 days, and Central FSSAI licenses can take 30-60 days, all depending on timely document submission, clarity, and inspections, but certain new laws allow for instant approval in some categories.

In this blog, you’ll find a clear breakdown of processing timelines, eligibility, required documents, the step-by-step application process, and factors that can influence approval time. Each section is crafted to help you understand the timeline and navigate the process efficiently.

Types of FSSAI Registration and Their Processing Times

Understanding the types of FSSAI Registration is important because the processing time varies based on the category you fall under. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India issues three levels of licenses depending on business size, operations, and turnover which are Basic Registration, State License, and Central License.

Basic FSSAI Registration

This is for small businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh. It is the simplest form of FSSAI Registration and usually has the shortest processing time. Under normal circumstances, approval takes 7-10 working days, but delays may occur if the application is incomplete or verification is required.

FSSAI State License

This license applies to medium-sized food businesses such as mid-level manufacturers, distributors, transporters, and restaurants operating within a single state. The processing time typically falls between 15-30 working days. State authorities conduct detailed scrutiny, and sometimes physical inspections are mandatory, which can extend the timeline.

FSSAI Central License

Large food units, importers, exporters, 100% EOUs, and businesses operating in multiple states must apply for the Central FSSAI License. Due to the complexity and high-level verification, processing can take 30-45 working days. National-level businesses undergo more rigorous checks, resulting in longer approval periods.

Overall, your processing time depends on the category of FSSAI Registration, document completeness, and required inspections.

Eligibility Criteria for Basic, State, and Central FSSAI Registration

Eligibility for FSSAI Registration is primarily based on business turnover, operational scale, and the nature of food activities. Before starting your application, it’s essential to identify which category applies to you.

Basic Registration Eligibility

You qualify for Basic Registration when your annual turnover does not exceed ₹12 lakh. This applies to home-based kitchens, petty retailers, small storage units, tea stalls, street vendors, cottage industries, and small traders. It is the simplest form of FSSAI License, aimed at micro-level food operators.

State License Eligibility

Medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore fall under the State License category. Food manufacturers with limited production capacity, medium restaurants, small dairy units (10,000-50,000 liters/day), small meat processing units, cold storage units, and transporters operating within a state qualify for this tier. The State FSSAI License is more robust and requires more detailed documentation.

Central License Eligibility

Large-scale food businesses with turnover above ₹20 crore, importers, exporters, airport canteens, seaport businesses, large manufacturers, and units dealing with high-risk products need a Central License. Additionally, businesses with operations across multiple states must apply for a Central FSSAI License regardless of turnover. High-risk industries such as dairy, meat, packaged foods, and beverages often fall into this category.

Identifying the correct eligibility category ensures faster approval and reduces unnecessary delays in your FSSAI Registration process.

Step-by-Step Process of Applying for FSSAI Registration

The application of FSSAI Registration process is now fully online through the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS). Following the correct steps ensures quicker approval and fewer queries from the authorities.

Step 1: Identify the Type of FSSAI License

Begin by determining whether you need Basic Registration, State License, or Central License based on turnover and operations.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents for FSSAI Registration

Having all documents ready ID proof, address proof, business details, layout plans, NOC, and production information helps avoid application delays.

Step 3: Online Application Submission

Visit the FoSCoS portal, create an account, and fill in Form A (for Basic Registration) or Form B (for State/Central License). Ensure the details are accurate and match your business documents.

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

Upload all relevant documents in the required format. Discrepancies or unclear scans can result in rejection or additional queries.

Step 5: Payment of Fees

Pay the applicable licensing fee online. Fees vary depending on the type of FSSAI License.

Step 6: Verification by Authorities

After submission, the authority reviews your application. For higher-level licenses, an inspection may be scheduled.

Step 7: Approval and Issuance of Certificate

Once approved, you can download your FSSAI Registration or FSSAI License certificate from the portal and begin operations legally.

Following these steps precisely makes the timeline smoother and prevents avoidable setbacks.

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration

Submitting correct documents is crucial for a smooth FSSAI Registration process. Missing or incorrect paperwork is the biggest cause of delays across all categories of FSSAI License.

Basic FSSAI Registration Documents:

• Passport-size photograph of the applicant

• Aadhaar/ID proof

• Business address proof

• Declaration form

• Food safety management system (FSMS) plan (simple format)

State FSSAI License Documents:

• Completed Form B

• Layout plan of the processing/production unit

• List of machinery and equipment

• Water quality report

• NOC from local municipality

• Proof of turnover

• FSMS/ HACCP plan (as applicable)

• Partnership deed or incorporation certificate

Central FSSAI License Documents:

• Form B (signed)

• Processing unit blueprint

• Source of raw materials

• Production capacity details

• Import/export registration (if applicable)

• NOC from the state authority

• Laboratory reports

• Company registration documents

• Board resolution & proof of authorized signatory

Submit clear, high-quality scans of all documents to avoid queries. Having these ready will significantly speed up your FSSAI Registration approval.

How Long Does It Take to Get FSSAI Registration?

The typical approval time depends on the type of FSSAI Registration and the thoroughness of your application.

Basic Registration Timeline

If all documents are correct and no inspection is required, Basic FSSAI Registration is usually completed within 7-10 working days.

State License Timeline

Because of detailed verification and possible inspection, a State FSSAI License can take 15-30 working days. Complex operations may take longer.

Central License Timeline

Central FSSAI License approvals involve high-level scrutiny and additional documentation, leading to a longer timeline of 30-45 working days.

These timelines assume the application is complete and error-free. Any mismatch in documents or response delays can extend the approval time. For this reason, many businesses hire consultants to ensure the application is prepared correctly the first time.

Factors That Can Affect FSSAI Approval Timelines

Multiple factors can influence how quickly your FSSAI Registration gets approved:

1. Document Accuracy

Incorrect, mismatched, or unclear documents can lead to immediate rejection or repeated queries.

2. Mandatory Inspection

For State and Central FSSAI License applications, authorities may conduct on-site inspections. Scheduling these can take time, especially in busy regions.

3. Applicant Response Time

If the authority asks for additional information, your speed in responding directly affects the timeline.

4. Nature of Business Operations

High-risk food businesses such as dairy, meat, and beverages undergo more stringent checks.

5. Regional Workload of FSSAI Offices

Some state FSSAI departments have heavier workloads, which can slow down approval.

6. Technical Errors on the Portal

Occasional system delays on the FoSCoS portal may also extend processing time.

Understanding these factors helps businesses plan operations and avoid unnecessary delays in obtaining their FSSAI Registration.

Conclusion

Obtaining FSSAI Registration is a mandatory step for any food business in India, and understanding the approval timeline helps you plan better. While Basic Registration often takes 7-10 days, State and Central FSSAI License approvals may take anywhere from 15 to 45 days, depending on the complexity of your operations and the accuracy of your documents. Preparing complete documentation, responding promptly to queries, and applying under the correct category are the best ways to speed up your approval. With proper preparation, the FSSAI Registration process becomes smooth and predictable, helping your food business operate legally and confidently.