FSSAI Licence Types Compared: Basic, State and Central

FSSAI has three tiers for food businesses: basic registration, state licence and central licence. Annual turnover is the main test. Roughly, basic registration suits turnover up to Rs 12 lakh, a state licence covers the middle band, and a central licence applies to larger or specific business types.

Why the right tier matters

Running on the wrong tier can mean penalties and trouble at inspection. A small home kitchen and a pan-India packaged food brand cannot sit under the same licence. If you only sell locally and earn modestly, FSSAI registration is the usual starting point.

The three tiers at a glance

• Basic registration: turnover up to Rs 12 lakh a year; fee Rs 100 a year per FSSAI’s eligibility document.
• State licence: turnover from Rs 12 lakh up to about Rs 20 crore, with the limit varying by business kind; fee Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000 a year. See FSSAI state licence.
• Central licence: turnover above that band; fee Rs 7,500 a year. See FSSAI central licence.

When central is needed regardless of turnover

FSSAI’s eligibility document lists importers, exporters, e-commerce food operators, food businesses at airports and seaports, and those operating in central government premises. Check the document for your exact kind of business, since thresholds differ by category.

After you get it

Licences run for a fixed term and must be renewed before expiry, so keep track through FSSAI renewal. If your address, products or turnover band changes, use FSSAI modification instead of ignoring it.

Common mistakes

• Choosing by premises size instead of turnover and business type.
• Forgetting that e-commerce and importing change the tier.
• Letting the licence lapse and then operating anyway.
• Not updating the licence after growing past the turnover band.

Related guides: MSME classification, MCA and ROC

FAQs

Which FSSAI licence do I need for a small shop?

If turnover is up to Rs 12 lakh a year, basic registration is generally enough.

Does an importer need a central licence?

Yes. FSSAI’s eligibility document lists importers under central licence irrespective of turnover.

What is the fee difference?

Per FSSAI’s document, basic is Rs 100 a year, state Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000, and central Rs 7,500. Confirm current fees on the portal before paying.

Unsure where your business sits? Talk to a Taxhint expert and we will confirm the right tier.