FSSAI License for Importers - Process, Documents Required, Fee
The Indian Food Safety and Standards Authority's (FSSAI) import license is a requirement for all businesses that import food into India. The import license ensures that all imported food complies with the food safety, quality and hygiene standards set by the FSSAI. The FSSAI import license is important for the smooth clearance of the imported goods from customs.
You may ask yourself if FSSAI licenses are required for import. The answer is YES! Importers cannot legally clear goods imported into India without a valid food import license. To import food, businesses must also obtain an FSSAI Central License for importers, which is specific to the importer for international trade and/or large quantity business.
Understanding how to get FSSAI import license is important for avoiding delays and non-compliance penalties and issues. The process consists of online registration, submission of required documentation and approval via the FoSCoS portal.
Having an FSSAI import license India helps you remain compliant with the regulations and improve business reputation, boost customer confidence and create long term growth in the competitive food industry.
FSSAI Food License [Sample]
Process to Obtain FSSAI License for Importers
An FSSAI license is obtained by importers via a structured online process via the FoSCoS portal. The sequence of steps is given below:
- Check Eligibility: Check if your business is importing food products. The importers are supposed to obtain a Central FSSAI License.
- Get Import Export Code (IEC): You must obtain a mandatory Import Export Code (IEC) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). This is a compulsory document to any import/export business and is required to be submitted during FSSAI application.
- Application on FoSCoS Portal: Sign up on the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal to begin filling your application online.
- Fill Form B: Fill and submit Form B with the correct information, including business name, address, nature of business (importer), and the kind of food products you will be importing.
- Upload Essential Documents: Upload all the required documents, such as IEC certificate, business registration proof, address proof, food safety management plan and product list.
- Pay Application Fees: Pay the stipulated fee for Central License (₹7,500/year) depending on the duration of the purchase (1-5 years validity).
- Checking and Granting of Licence: FSSAI examines the application and can carry out an inspection when necessary. The license is issued with 14 digit FSSAI number after approval.
Documents Required for FSSAI License for Importers
- Address proof by authorized government authorities
- Identity proof such as Aadhar
- Proof of ownership of the establishment
- Partnership deed or company incorporation certificate
- Certificate from the ministry of commerce 100% EOU
- Coop act-1861/multistate Coop Act-2002 certification if asked
- Form IX duly filled
- Form -B must be filled
These Documents Are Mandatory For Importing Food To India.
- Ingredient List
- Specimen copy of the label
- Declaration
- Bill of Entry
- Country of Origin Certificate
- Import-export code
Fees for FSSAI Importer License
FSSAI import licence cost are managed by the central licensing directorate of FSSAI, which issues licenses to food importers in India. As the importers need a Central License, costing ₹7,500 per year, the fee system is standardized and can be used throughout the country.
| Fee Category | Particulars | Amount (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Government Fee | Central FSSAI License | ₹7,500 per year + 18% GST |
| Professional Fee | Central FSSAI License | ₹13,000 + 18% GST |
- Applicants must initially pay ₹1,000 + 18% GST at the time of application submission.
- After approval, the remaining government license fee along with applicable GST must be paid within 30 working days
- Failure to pay the balance amount within the given timeframe will result in automatic rejection of the application.
What is FSSAI?
FSSAI Import Registration is the authorization issued by the FSSAI to importers of food into India.
Specifically, it is a Central FSSAI License which importers need in order to legally import food items into India. Without an FSSAI import license, Customs cannot clear food shipments for import.
FSSAI Import Registration includes:
- Compliance with Indian food safety legislation
- Quality assurance of imported food products
- Smooth customs clearance process
- Legal authorization to operate as a food importer
Why FSSAI Licesne is Necessary for Importers?
Food import is one of the most profitable businesses in the country due to high demand, and it is directly linked to the health of consumers. Therefore to curtail any ill practices and import sub-standard food items into the country, FSSAI has introduced mandatory licensing for food importers for better consumers' health.
Validity and Renewal of FSSAI License for Importer
- FSSAI license granted under the FSS regulation shall be valid for 1-5 years.
- Fill FSSAI license renewalapplication 30 days before the date of expiry.
- Failing to renew the no food importer is allowed to carry their business after the day of expiry of FSSAI license.
- If the renewal of a license is not filed till 30 days before the expiry date, a late fee of INR 100 per day shall be charged, along with the renewal fee.
- In the case of FBOs filling for FSSAI renewal from the 1st to 90th-day after the day of expiry, then they shall be charged 3 times the original annual fee respectively and 5 times if they appear after the 90th day from the day of expiry.
NOTE: you can check your FSSAI validity online using our Free FSSAI license number checker tool to avoid late fee charges.
FSSAI Compliances for Importers
- The importer must file annual returns through from-D and submit them to region FSSAI authorities before May 31 each year.
- The shelf life of imported food articles must be up to at least 60% during the time of import. In case of a shelf life of fewer than 7 days, NOC from FSSAI is mandatory.
- Proper hygienic storage facilities must be available to store imported food items.
- A random sampling of imported food items for testing but be carried out by a food safety officer.
- Declaration once food consignment arrives at port.
- No food operator shall import any food product that is not transported or stored in optimal storage conditions, controlled temperature and hygienic conditions.
Get FSSAI License for Importers with Professional Utilities
Businesses that deal with the import of food products into India needs to obtain an FSSAI importer license. It guarantees compliance with food safety regulations, easy custom clearance and legal practices. As a food import license is a must-have document, knowing how to obtain a food import license properly can save businesses time and penalties when gaining market credibility.
The professional advice can go a long way to make the process of doing so effortless and painless. Professional Utilities provides quality services for obtaining FSSAI central license to importers that are quick to approve and properly documented. Businesses can easily obtain their FSSAI import license India and grow without struggling to comply with their professional approach.
FAQ’s On FSSAI License for Importers
What is an FSSAI importer license?
FSSAI importer license is a Central License provided by FSSAI permitting business to legally import food products to India.
Who needs an FSSAI importer license?
Any person or company engaging in importing food products within India will be required to acquire FSSAI importer license.
Is FSSAI license mandatory for food importers in India?
Yes, it is mandatory. Without an FSSAI license, food imports cannot be cleared through customs.
What documents are required for FSSAI importer license?
- IEC (Import Export Code)
- Business registration proof
- Address proof
- Food safety management plan
- List of food products to be imported
How to apply for FSSAI importer license online?
The process is done online via FoSCoS portal, where you choose Central License; complete the application form and submit the necessary documentations.
How to renew FSSAI importer license online?
Sign in the FoSCoS portal, choose the renewal option, edit details where necessary, pay fees and submit the application before the expiry date.
What are FSSAI compliance requirements for importers?
- Appropriate food labelling
- Compliance with FSSAI standards
- Product testing (if required)
- Valid consignment documentation
What is the validity of FSSAI license for importers?
The period of the license is 1 to 5 years, which the applicant selects at the time of registration.
Speak Directly to our Expert Today
Reliable
Affordable
Assured
Industries Served by
Professional Utilities
Apparels
Footwear
Furniture
Gems and Jewellery
Tourism & Hospitality
Consumer Electronics
Chemicals
Telecom
Oils & Gas
Hotel
Railways
Liquor
Health & Medical
Food Processing
Dangerous/ Haz. Goods
Tea & Coffee
Capital Goods
Recycling
Rubber
NGOs
Silk
Handloom
IT & BPM
Steel
Automobile
Tobacco
Constructions
Disclaimer:The information provided on this website is intended for general information purposes only. Although all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the information provided is correct and reliable, it is not advised to be used as a substitute for professional advice. The information herein is not to be used in place of seeking professional services, counsel, or guidance. We highly advise that you consult a professional before you make any business or legal decisions regarding the information presented on this website. This website and its contents are given "as is", and we do not take any responsibility for any action that is taken based on information given on this website.
- Written by: Archana Singh
- Fact-checked: Sahil Singh
- Updated on: May 21, 2026
Testimonials
"Explore how Professional Utilities have helped businesses reach new heights as their trusted partner."
It was a great experience working withProfessional Utilities. They have provided the smoothly. It shows the amount of confidence they are having in their field of work.
Atish Singh
It was professional and friendly experience quick response and remarkable assistance. I loved PU service for section 8 company registration for our Vidyadhare Foundation.
Ravi Kumar
I needed a material safety data sheet for my product and they got it delivered in just 3 days. I am very happy with their professional and timely service. Trust me you can count on them.
Ananya Sharma
Great & helpful support by everyone. I got response & support whenever I called to your system. Heartly thanx for Great & Super Service. Have a Great & Bright future of team & your company.
Prashant Agawekar
Thank you so muchProfessional Utilitiesteam for their wonderful help. I really appreciate your efforts in getting start business. Pvt Ltd company registration was smooth yet quick.
Abhishek Kumar
I applied for Drug licence and company registration and their follow-up for work and regular updates helped me a lot. They are happily available for any kind of business consultancy.
Vidushi Saini
Great experience went to get my ITR done, process was quite convenient and fast. Had a few queries, am happy about the fact those people explained me all things I wanted to know.
Taniya Garyali
Great services provided by Professional Utilities. They are best in this industry and the best part is their prices are so affordable. Kudos to you. Now you guys are my full-time consultant.
Aftab Alam
Trusted By
.svg)
