FSSAI registration and licence for restaurants
Every place that sells food needs an FSSAI number before it opens. Which kind you need now depends on new turnover limits that started in April 2026.
Based on the FSSAI amendment that took effect on 1 April 2026, as reported in October 2026. Fees and limits can be revised by FSSAI; check the fee and eligibility on the FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in) before you apply. General information, not legal advice.
The three kinds
| Kind | Yearly turnover | Fee (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic registration | Up to ₹1.5 crore | ₹100 |
| State licence | Above ₹1.5 crore, up to ₹50 crore | About ₹2,000–₹5,000, by kind of business |
| Central licence | Above ₹50 crore | ₹7,500 |
Before April 2026 the basic registration limit was ₹12 lakh, so many small restaurants that used to need a state licence can now use basic registration for new applications. If you already hold a licence, ask your food safety officer before you switch.
A central licence can be needed below ₹50 crore in special cases, such as importing food or running outlets in several states under one licence. Most single restaurants and cafés will be in the first two rows.
What you need to apply
- Photo ID and address proof of the owner or partners.
- Proof that you can use the premises: rent agreement or ownership papers.
- Business proof: GST certificate, partnership deed or company papers, as it applies.
- For a licence: kitchen layout plan, list of equipment, water test report, and a food safety management plan.
- A passport-size photo and the list of food you will serve.
How to apply
- Open FoSCoS, use the eligibility check to see which kind you need.
- Fill the form for the kind of business (restaurant, café, cloud kitchen, caterer).
- Upload the documents and pay the fee online.
- For a licence, an officer may inspect the kitchen before approving it.
Registrations and licences issued under the new rules are reported to stay valid as long as the yearly fee is paid, instead of being renewed every few years. Missing the fee can suspend it, so put the date in your calendar.
Show your number
The 14-digit FSSAI number has to appear on your signboard or at the entrance, on the menu, and on bills. Delivery apps ask for it before they list you.
Opening a new place? See the full list of licences you need to open a restaurant.
Want the bill, the KOT and the kitchen screen too?
RestroSimplify does all of this for you at the counter, and keeps working when the internet is down. 14 days free, no card.