How to Apply for FSSAI License Online via FoSCoS

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How to Get FSSAI License Online via FoSCoS | Complete 2025 Process

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A beginner-friendly, detailed guide on applying for FSSAI license via FoSCoS. Includes screenshots, checklists, FAQs & expert tips. Start your food business legally!

H1: How to Apply for FSSAI License Online via FoSCoS – Step-by-Step Process (2025 Updated Guide)

Starting a food business in India? Then there’s one legal step you cannot skip — getting your FSSAI license.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the government body responsible for ensuring food safety across the country. Whether you’re opening a small roadside chai tapri, launching a cloud kitchen, or running a large-scale food manufacturing unit, you must have an FSSAI license or registration.

And the best part?

You can now apply for it 100% online through the FoSCoS portal — the new unified digital platform that has replaced the old FLRS system.

In this comprehensive, step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through:

✅ What FoSCoS is and why it replaced FLRS
✅ The 3 types of FSSAI licenses
✅ Who needs to apply
✅ A detailed 7-step process to apply online
✅ Required documents (with downloadable checklist)
✅ Updated 2025 application fees
✅ Common mistakes to avoid
✅ How to track your application
✅ Renewal process
✅ And much more!

Whether you’re a beginner or an entrepreneur scaling up, this guide will help you apply correctly, quickly, and confidently — without wasting time or money.

Let’s get started.

H2: What is FoSCoS? Why Did It Replace FLRS?

FoSCoS = Food Safety Compliance System

FoSCoS (pronounced “focus”) stands for Food Safety Compliance System. It is the new, centralized online portal launched by FSSAI to streamline all food business operator (FBO) services — from license applications to renewals, modifications, and inspections.

FoSCoS URL: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in

It officially replaced the old FLRS (Food Licensing and Registration System) in 2023 to make the entire process faster, more transparent, and user-friendly.

Why Was FLRS Replaced?

The old FLRS system had several issues:

Issue	Explanation
❌ Fragmented system	State and Central licenses were handled on different portals
❌ Poor tracking	No real-time status updates or notifications
❌ Manual processes	Heavy reliance on physical documents and offline verification
❌ Inconsistent data	Duplicate entries and errors due to lack of integration

FoSCoS fixes all of these by offering:

✅ Single unified portal for all FBOs (Basic, State, Central)
✅ Real-time tracking of applications
✅ Automated workflows with SMS/email alerts
✅ Integration with state systems for faster approvals
✅ Mobile-friendly interface
✅ Secure document upload and e-signing

💡 Image Suggestion:
Screenshot of FoSCoS homepage with key sections labeled (Login, Apply, Track, Helpdesk)
Alt-text: FoSCoS portal homepage showing login and application options for FSSAI license

Think of FoSCoS as the “Amazon” of food licensing — everything you need in one place, with clear steps and instant support.

H2: Why Apply for FSSAI License Online via FoSCoS? (Top 7 Benefits)

Applying online via FoSCoS isn’t just convenient — it’s mandatory for most food businesses.

Here’s why you should always use FoSCoS:

✅ 1. Faster Processing Time

Old system: 30–60 days
FoSCoS: 15–25 days on average
Automated workflows reduce human delays

✅ 2. No Physical Visits Required

No need to visit FSSAI offices
All communication happens online
E-signing replaces physical signatures

✅ 3. Real-Time Application Tracking

Check status anytime: “Submitted,” “Under Review,” “Approved”
Get SMS/email alerts at every stage

✅ 4. Single Portal for All Licenses

Whether you need Basic, State, or Central — all applications go through FoSCoS
No confusion about which portal to use

✅ 5. Digital Document Management

Upload scanned copies of ID, address proof, layout plan, etc.
No photocopies or notarization needed
Secure cloud storage

✅ 6. Easy Renewals & Modifications

Renew your license 30–60 days before expiry
Modify business details (name, address, category) online
No re-application required

✅ 7. Transparent & Audit-Friendly

Every action is logged (who did what and when)
Reduces corruption and delays
Helps during inspections and audits

💬 “I applied for my Central FSSAI license through FoSCoS. Got approval in 18 days — no calls, no visits, just online tracking.”
— Priya Mehta, Founder, Organic Roots Pvt Ltd

H2: Understanding the 3 Types of FSSAI Licenses

Not all food businesses need the same license. FSSAI offers three types based on annual turnover and business scale.

Let’s break them down:

License Type	Annual Turnover	Who Needs It?	Validity	Issuing Authority
Basic FSSAI Registration	Up to ₹12 lakh	Small businesses (home kitchens, street vendors, petty retailers)	1–5 years	Local Municipal Corporation / Designated Officer
State FSSAI License	₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore	Medium businesses (restaurants, hotels, small manufacturers)	1–5 years	State Food Safety Department
Central FSSAI License	Above ₹20 crore	Large businesses (exporters, multi-state chains, big manufacturers)	1–5 years	FSSAI Headquarters (Delhi)

H3: When Do You Need Which License? (Real Examples)

Let’s make this practical with real-life examples:

🏠 Home-Based Cloud Kitchen (Turnover: ₹8 lakh/year)

Selling homemade meals via Swiggy/Zomato
Operates from home kitchen
Needs: Basic FSSAI Registration

🍔 Local Restaurant (Turnover: ₹1.5 crore/year)

20-seat restaurant in Pune
Offers dine-in and delivery
Needs: State FSSAI License

🏭 Packaged Snacks Manufacturer (Turnover: ₹25 crore/year)

Produces chips, cookies, and sells across India
Exports to UAE
Needs: Central FSSAI License

🛒 Supermarket Chain (Turnover: ₹18 crore/year)

Single-state operations (e.g., only in Tamil Nadu)
Sells packaged and fresh food
Needs: State FSSAI License

🌐 Food Delivery App (Aggregator)

Doesn’t cook food but partners with restaurants
Still needs: Central FSSAI License (as a food business operator)

🔍 Pro Tip: Even if your turnover is low, exporting food requires a Central License.

H2: Who Should Apply via FoSCoS? (Eligibility Criteria)

You must apply via FoSCoS if you are any of the following:

✅ Food Business Operators (FBOs) Including:

Manufacturers (chips, sauces, dairy, bakery)
Processors (bottling, packaging, labeling)
Distributors, Wholesalers, Suppliers
Retailers (supermarkets, grocery stores)
Restaurants, Hotels, Dhabas, Cloud Kitchens
Caterers (event, office, airline)
Importers & Exporters of food items
Transporters of food (if fleet > 10 vehicles)
Storage units (cold storage, warehouses)
E-commerce food sellers (Amazon, Flipkart, own website)

✅ Special Cases:

Home-based food businesses (even if turnover < ₹12 lakh)
Religious/charitable food service (langar, prasad, community meals)
Food vending machines (automated kiosks)

❗ Note: Even non-profit food operations need FSSAI registration.

❌ Who Does NOT Need FSSAI License?

Pure agriculture producers (farmers selling raw crops)
Non-food businesses (cosmetics, medicines)
Individuals cooking at home for personal consumption

💡 Image Suggestion:
Infographic showing 10 types of food businesses that need FSSAI license
Alt-text: Types of food businesses requiring FSSAI license in India

H2: Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for FSSAI License Online via FoSCoS

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process.

We’ll walk you through 7 simple steps to apply for your FSSAI license or registration via FoSCoS — whether it’s Basic, State, or Central.

⏱️ Time Required: 45–60 minutes
💻 Device Needed: Laptop or smartphone with internet

Step 1: Visit the FoSCoS Portal

Go to the official FoSCoS website:
👉 https://foscos.fssai.gov.in

🚫 Warning: Avoid third-party websites claiming to help with FSSAI registration. Many are scams.

Once the page loads, you’ll see:

Login / Register button (top right)
Menu options: Apply, Track, Download, Helpdesk
Language toggle (English / Hindi)

💡 Image Suggestion:
Screenshot of FoSCoS homepage with “Register” button highlighted
Alt-text: FoSCoS official website homepage with registration and login options

Click on “Register” → “Food Business Operator (FBO)”

Step 2: Create Your FBO Login ID

This is your permanent account for all FSSAI services.

Fill in:

Field	What to Enter
Full Name	Owner’s name (e.g., Ramesh Kumar)
Mobile Number	Active number (will receive OTP)
Email ID	Valid email (will receive login details)
State	Where your business is located
District	Your district
Captcha	Enter the code shown

Click “Send OTP” on mobile and email.

Once verified, set a password (min 8 characters, with number and symbol).

✅ You’re now registered!

🔐 Save your login ID and password — you’ll need them for renewal, modification, and tracking.

💡 Image Suggestion:
Screenshot of FoSCoS registration form with sample data
Alt-text: FoSCoS FBO registration form with example entries

Step 3: Choose Application Type

After logging in, click on “Apply” → “New Application”

Now choose:

License Type:

Basic Registration
State License
Central License

Business Category:

Manufacturer
Retailer
Restaurant
Importer
Transporter
etc.

Sub-Category (if applicable):

Dairy (up to 500 LPD)
Meat processing (up to 100 QTL/day)
Cold storage
Bakery

📌 Tip: Choose the most accurate category — it affects document requirements and inspection rules.

FoSCoS will auto-detect whether you need Basic, State, or Central based on turnover — but you can also select manually.

💡 Image Suggestion:
Screenshot of application type selection screen
Alt-text: FoSCoS application type selection for FSSAI license

Step 4: Fill in Business Details

This is the longest but most important section.

Break it down into parts:

🏢 Part A: Business Information

Business Name (e.g., “Delicious Bakes Pvt Ltd”)
Proposed Name (if different)
FBO Type (Proprietorship, LLP, Company, NGO)
GSTIN (if available)
Annual Turnover (select range)
Date of Commencement

📍 Part B: Premises Address

Full address with pin code
Upload rent agreement or property ownership proof
Premises type (kitchen, factory, shop, warehouse)

👤 Part C: Promoter/Proprietor Details

Full name
Father’s name
DOB
Aadhaar number
PAN (mandatory for companies)
Photo (passport size, JPEG)

🧾 Part D: Business Activity Details

Select all that apply:

Manufacturing
Packaging
Storage
Distribution
Retail sale
Import/Export

📌 Example:
Riya’s Home Bakery

Business Name: Riya’s Tasty Cakes

Turnover: ₹9 lakh/year → Basic Registration

Address: Flat 203, Sai Residency, Mumbai

Activity: Manufacturing & Retail (home kitchen)

💡 Image Suggestion:
Screenshot of business details form with sample entries
Alt-text: Filling business details in FoSCoS for FSSAI license application

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

FoSCoS requires scanned copies of documents in PDF or JPEG (max 2 MB each).

Here’s a complete checklist by license type:

H3: Document Checklist for FSSAI License (Table Format)

Document	Basic	State	Central	Format
Photo of Proprietor	✅	✅	✅	JPEG
Aadhaar Card	✅	✅	✅	PDF
PAN Card	❌	✅	✅	PDF
Business Address Proof	✅	✅	✅	PDF
NOC from Municipality	❌	✅	✅	PDF
Layout Plan of Kitchen/Unit	❌	✅	✅	PDF
List of Equipment & Machinery	❌	✅	✅	PDF
Water Test Report	❌	✅	✅	PDF
GST Certificate	❌	✅	✅	PDF
Partnership Deed / MOA	❌	✅	✅	PDF
Import/Export Code (IEC)	❌	❌	✅	PDF
Certificate from Manufacturer (if distributor)	❌	❌	✅	PDF

📌 Note:

Basic Registration requires minimal docs (Aadhaar + address proof + photo)

State & Central require detailed infrastructure proof

💡 Image Suggestion:
Screenshot of document upload section with file types shown
Alt-text: Uploading documents for FSSAI license on FoSCoS portal

Step 6: Payment Process

After uploading documents, proceed to payment.

Fees vary by license type:

H3: FSSAI License Fees 2025 (Updated)

License Type	One-Year Fee	Five-Year Fee	Inspection Required?
Basic Registration	₹100	₹500	No
State License	₹2,000 – ₹5,000	₹10,000 – ₹25,000	Yes (usually)
Central License	₹7,500	₹37,500	Yes

💰 Note:

State license fees vary by state (e.g., ₹2,000 in UP, ₹5,000 in Karnataka)

Central license is fixed nationwide

Payment methods:

Credit/Debit Card
Net Banking
UPI (GPay, PhonePe, Paytm)

Once paid, you’ll get a Transaction ID and Application Reference Number (ARN).

💡 Image Suggestion:
Screenshot of payment screen with fee breakdown
Alt-text: FSSAI license application payment on FoSCoS portal

Step 7: Submit & Track Application

Click “Submit Application”.

You’ll see:

Application Reference Number (ARN)
Expected processing time
Next steps

Now, track your application in real-time:

Go to “Track Application” → Enter ARN → View status:

Status	Meaning
Submitted	Awaiting review
Under Process	Being verified
Sent for Inspection	Inspector assigned
Approved	License issued (PDF available)
Rejected	Deficiency notice sent

📲 You’ll also get SMS/email alerts at each stage.

💡 Image Suggestion:
Screenshot of application tracking dashboard
Alt-text: Tracking FSSAI license application status on FoSCoS

H2: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying on FoSCoS

Even small errors can lead to rejection or delays.

Here are the top 10 mistakes — and how to avoid them:

❌ 1. Wrong License Type Selected

Mistake: Applying for Basic when turnover is ₹25 lakh
Fix: Use the turnover-based eligibility tool on FoSCoS

❌ 2. Incorrect Business Category

Mistake: Choosing “Retailer” for a manufacturer
Fix: Match your activity exactly (e.g., “Dairy Processor”)

❌ 3. Blurry or Incomplete Documents

Mistake: Uploading dark, cropped, or expired ID
Fix: Use clear scans with all corners visible

❌ 4. Missing NOC or Layout Plan (for State/Central)

Mistake: Skipping documents thinking “it’s optional”
Fix: Check the document checklist before submitting

❌ 5. Using Fake or Duplicate Mobile Number/Email

Mistake: Using a friend’s number
Fix: Use your own verified contact details

❌ 6. Incorrect Address or Pin Code

Mistake: Typing wrong district or spelling errors
Fix: Double-check with postal website

❌ 7. Not Paying Fees on Time

Mistake: Leaving payment for later
Fix: Complete payment within 7 days of starting application

❌ 8. Applying from Wrong State

Mistake: Applying for Central license when eligible for State
Fix: Location matters — apply where your unit is located

❌ 9. Ignoring Deficiency Notices

Mistake: Not logging in after submission
Fix: Check FoSCoS every 3–5 days for updates

❌ 10. Using Third-Party Agents Without Verification

Mistake: Paying ₹5,000 to an unverified agent
Fix: Use only FSSAI-recognized consultants (like us)

🛑 Result of mistakes: Average delay of 20–45 days or outright rejection.

H2: How to Track Your FSSAI Application Status

Tracking is easy:

Go to https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
Click “Track Application”
Enter:

Application Reference Number (ARN)
Captcha

Click “Search”

You’ll see:

Current status
Remarks (if any)
Inspector details (if assigned)
Expected approval date

📲 Enable notifications in your account settings for SMS alerts.

💡 Image Suggestion:
Screenshot of tracking page with sample ARN and status
Alt-text: How to track FSSAI license application status online

H2: FSSAI License Renewal Process via FoSCoS

Your license is valid for 1 to 5 years. Don’t wait until expiry!

When to Renew?

Start 30–60 days before expiry
Late renewal = ₹100/day penalty (max 30 days)
After 30 days: Fresh application required

Renewal Steps:

Log in to FoSCoS
Go to “Renew License”
Select license to renew
Update any changes (address, turnover, etc.)
Upload updated documents (if needed)
Pay renewal fee (same as fresh application)
Submit

✅ No inspection needed if no major changes

💡 Image Suggestion:
Screenshot of renewal dashboard
Alt-text: Renewing FSSAI license online via FoSCoS portal

H2: Modification of FSSAI License (Name, Address, Activity)

Need to change your business name or add a new product?

Use “Modify License” on FoSCoS.

Allowed modifications:

Change business name
Change address (same city)
Add/remove food categories
Upgrade license type (e.g., Basic to State)

📝 Note: Major changes (like shifting to another state) may require a new application.

H2: Internal Linking Suggestions (For SEO)

To boost your website’s SEO, link this article to related FSSAI content:

H2: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – FSSAI License via FoSCoS

Q1: Is FoSCoS the only way to apply for FSSAI license?

Yes. All new applications must go through FoSCoS. FLRS is discontinued.

Q2: Can I apply for FSSAI license without GST?

Yes, especially for Basic Registration. But State/Central licenses often require GSTIN.

Q3: How long does FSSAI license approval take?

Basic: 7–14 days
State: 15–25 days
Central: 20–30 days

Q4: Do I need inspection for Basic Registration?

No. Basic registration is document-based, no inspection.

Q5: Can I run a home kitchen without FSSAI?

No. Even home-based food businesses must have Basic FSSAI Registration.

Q6: What if my application is rejected?

You’ll get a deficiency notice. You can revise and resubmit within 30 days.

Q7: Can I apply for Central License from any state?

Yes. Central licenses are issued by FSSAI HQ, but apply via FoSCoS using your main office address.

Q8: Is digital signature required?

Not for Basic. State and Central may require Class 2 DSC for companies.

Q9: Can I use the same FBO ID for multiple units?

Yes. You can add multiple units under one FBO account.

Q10: What is the validity of FSSAI license?

1 to 5 years. Choose during application.

Q11: Can I transfer my FSSAI license to someone else?

No. License is non-transferable. New owner must apply fresh.

Q12: Do I need FSSAI for selling pickles online?

Yes. Any packaged food sold online needs at least Basic Registration.

Q13: How to download FSSAI license after approval?

Go to “License Issued” → Download PDF → Print and display.

Q14: What is the penalty for operating without FSSAI?

Up to ₹10 lakh fine and/or imprisonment under FSSAI Act.

Q15: Can foreign companies get FSSAI license?

Yes. Foreign entities must appoint an Indian Authorized Signatory.

H2: Conclusion – Get Your FSSAI License Hassle-Free in 2025

Applying for an FSSAI license via FoSCoS is no longer a confusing, time-consuming task.

With this step-by-step guide, you now know:

✅ How to register on FoSCoS
✅ Which license type you need
✅ What documents to prepare
✅ How to avoid common mistakes
✅ How to track and renew your license

But let’s be honest — filling forms, uploading documents, and tracking status can still be stressful, especially if you’re running a business.

What if you could focus on your food — and let experts handle the paperwork?

H2: Need Help? Let Our FSSAI Consultants Apply for You!

At SafeFood Consultancy, we’ve helped over 2,500 food businesses get their FSSAI license — quickly, correctly, and affordably.

✅ Our Services:

Free eligibility check
Document preparation & verification
Online application filing
Status tracking & follow-up
Renewal & modification support
Post-license compliance guidance

💬 What Our Clients Say:

“I was confused about State vs Central license. SafeFood guided me, applied online, and got my license in 12 days!”
— Arjun Patel, SpiceCraft Foods

🎯 Packages Starting at Just ₹999

👉 Basic Registration: ₹999
👉 State License: ₹2,999
👉 Central License: ₹5,999

All-inclusive. No hidden charges.

CTA: Get Your FSSAI License in 15 Days – Guaranteed!

📞 Call Us: +91-98765-43210
🌐 Visit: www.safefoodconsultancy.com
📧 Email: help@safefoodconsultancy.com

Or fill out this quick form and we’ll call you in 30 minutes:

[👉 APPLY NOW – FREE CONSULTATION]

✅ 100% Online
✅ No Physical Visits
✅ Approval Guarantee
✅ Support in Hindi & English

Don’t risk rejection or delays. Let the FSSAI experts handle it for you.

Final Checklist: Before You Submit on FoSCoS

✅ Created FBO account on FoSCoS
✅ Selected correct license type
✅ Filled all business details accurately
✅ Uploaded clear, valid documents
✅ Paid fees successfully
✅ Saved ARN for tracking
✅ Enabled SMS/email alerts