An FSSAI licence for a restaurant is the starting point for lawful food operations in India. This 2026 guide explains registration, State and Central licences, fees, documents, the FoSCoS process and the mistakes that delay approval.
Does every restaurant need FSSAI approval?
Yes. A restaurant, café, takeaway, caterer or cloud kitchen is a food business operator and must hold the correct FSSAI registration or licence before trading. Apply through the official FoSCoS portal; avoid agents who ask you to pay through unofficial links.
Which FSSAI category applies?
| Annual turnover | Typical approval | Government fee |
|---|---|---|
| Up to ₹12 lakh | Basic Registration | ₹100 per year |
| Above ₹12 lakh and up to ₹20 crore | State Licence | Generally ₹2,000 per year for restaurants |
| Above ₹20 crore | Central Licence | ₹7,500 per year |
These thresholds are summarised from FSSAI’s current kind-of-business eligibility document. Other factors—multiple states, airport premises or additional manufacturing activities—can change the answer.
Documents commonly required
- Identity and address proof of the proprietor, partners or authorised signatory.
- Proof of possession of the premises: lease, rent agreement or ownership document.
- Premises layout and kitchen plan where requested.
- Business constitution documents, partnership deed or incorporation records.
- List of food categories and equipment.
- Water test report where applicable.
- Local-authority NOC or other supporting approval when required.
Use FoSCoS’s official document list because requirements vary by licence type and state.
Application process
- Create or access your FoSCoS account.
- Select the state and “Restaurant” under food-services activities.
- Choose the correct turnover and licence category.
- Complete Form A or Form B, upload documents and pay the official fee.
- Track queries and respond within the stated deadline.
- Prepare the premises and records for inspection if one is scheduled.
- Download and display the issued certificate and 14-digit number.
FSSAI also publishes a restaurant application guide.
After the licence is issued
Display it prominently, print the FSSAI number on bills and applicable packaging, maintain hygiene and supplier records, train food handlers and apply for renewal before expiry. A licence is not a substitute for municipal, fire, GST, Shops and Establishments or pollution approvals. See our restaurant licence checklist for India and FSSAI inspection checklist.
Common mistakes
- Choosing Basic Registration even though projected turnover exceeds ₹12 lakh.
- Using a personal address instead of the operating premises.
- Uploading an unclear lease or mismatched business name.
- Ignoring FoSCoS clarification notices.
- Letting the licence expire or failing to modify it after major changes.
Build compliance into daily operations
Use the Academy’s practical guides and free templates to turn legal requirements into repeatable restaurant systems.
Important: Rules, fees and local procedures can change. Verify your position with the relevant authority and a qualified professional before acting.