From 1 April 2026, a food business needs an FSSAI Central licence if its annual turnover is above ₹50 crore. Importers, exporters, e-commerce food businesses and manufacturers operating in more than one state need a Central licence whatever their turnover. Central licences are processed by FSSAI's regional offices through FoSCoS.
Who needs a Central licence
- By turnover: businesses with annual turnover above ₹50 crore (the limit was ₹20 crore before 1 April 2026).
- Importers of food, who also need an Import Export Code; imported consignments go through FSSAI import clearance.
- Exporters of food.
- E-commerce food businesses.
- Manufacturers operating in more than one state.
Other kinds of business can also fall under Central licensing. Confirm your exact kind of business on FoSCoS before applying.
Where Central licences are processed
| FSSAI office | States (examples) |
|---|---|
| Northern Region (Delhi NCR) | Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and other northern states |
| Western Region (Mumbai) | Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Madhya Pradesh |
| Southern Region (Chennai) | Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala |
| Eastern Region (Kolkata) | West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand and the north-east (Guwahati office) |
Applications are filed online on FoSCoS; the office matters mainly for queries and inspections.
Government fee and obligations
- The Central licence fee is commonly ₹7,500 a year; FoSCoS calculates the exact amount.
- Since March 2026 the licence stays valid unless suspended, cancelled or surrendered, but the annual fee must be paid every year.
- Licensed manufacturers and importers file an annual return by 31 May.
- The Commissioner of Food Safety can direct a third-party food safety audit at the business's own cost.
Check your category with the FSSAI licence checker, or read the full licence and registration guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the turnover limit for an FSSAI Central licence in 2026?
From 1 April 2026, the Central licence applies to food businesses with annual turnover above ₹50 crore, up from ₹20 crore.
Does a small importer need a Central licence?
Yes. Importers need a Central licence regardless of turnover, along with an Import Export Code.
We have units in two states. Do we need a Central licence?
Manufacturers operating in more than one state need a Central licence, and each premises also needs its own registration or licence. Confirm your kind of business on FoSCoS.