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Mon, Feb 02 2026
Raju Karn
When an Indian business plans to sell products outside the country, documentation becomes just as important as the product itself. One document that frequently comes up during exports is the Free Sale Certificate (FSC). Many exporters hear about it for the first time only when their overseas buyer or foreign authority asks for it urgently.
A Free Sale Certificate is an official confirmation issued by a government or regulatory authority stating that a product is freely sold and legally permitted in India. It reassures importing countries that the product meets Indian regulations and does not face restrictions in its home market.
In simple terms, if a product is safe enough to be sold in India, a Free Sale Certificate tells foreign regulators that it is safe to be imported and used in their country as well.
A Free Sale Certificate plays a critical role in international trade, especially for regulated products. Many countries rely on the exporting country’s regulatory system before allowing goods into their market.
Here’s why FSC matters:
Not every exporter needs a Free Sale Certificate, but many businesses do—especially those exporting regulated or consumer-facing products.
You may need an FSC if:
➤ You export food products, cosmetics, medical devices, or health-related items
➤ You sell products in countries with strict import regulations
➤ Your overseas buyer specifically demands it
➤ The importing country requires FSC for product approval or registration
➤ You are entering a new foreign market for the first time
While requirements vary by country, FSC is commonly requested for:
● Food and beverage products
● Cosmetics and personal care items
● Medical devices and healthcare products
● Pharmaceuticals and supplements
● Chemicals and industrial products
● Consumer electronics (in some regions)
Each product category is handled by a different Indian authority, which is why understanding the correct route is important.
Before applying for a Free Sale Certificate, certain conditions must be met. Authorities issue FSC only if the product already complies with Indian laws.
Key eligibility requirements include:
⁃ The product must be legally allowed for sale in India
⁃ Required licenses or registrations must be active
⁃ Manufacturing or import permissions must be valid
⁃ The product must not be prohibited or restricted
⁃ Labeling and compliance rules must be followed
If any approval is missing, the FSC application is usually rejected or kept on hold.
The authority issuing the FSC accepts applications only from responsible and authorized entities.
Eligible applicants include:
▪ Indian manufacturers of the product
▪ Indian exporters holding valid product approvals
▪ Authorized Indian representatives acting on behalf of manufacturers
The applicant must be able to prove legal ownership or authorization to manufacture, sell, or export the product.
There is no single authority that issues FSC for all products. The issuing body depends on the product category.
Examples include:
➔ Food products – issued through food regulatory authorities
➔ Cosmetics – issued by drug and cosmetic regulators
➔ Medical devices – issued by health or drug authorities
➔ Industrial products – issued by relevant government departments
Choosing the wrong authority is one of the most common mistakes exporters make.
The Free Sale Certificate process is not complicated, but it requires attention to detail. Below is a simplified explanation for easy understanding.
Ensure that the product is approved for sale in India and all licenses are valid.
Different products fall under different departments. Selecting the correct issuing authority is essential.
Collect all regulatory approvals, company details, and product information.
The FSC application is submitted online or offline, depending on the authority.
Officials verify documents and may ask for clarification or additional details.
Once satisfied, the Free Sale Certificate is issued for export use.
Most applications move smoothly when documentation is complete and consistent.
Document requirements vary slightly depending on the product and authority, but generally include:
→ Valid product license or registration
→ Company incorporation or business registration proof
→ Manufacturing or import license
→ Product details and description
→ Export declaration or request letter
→ Authorization letter, if applicable
Incomplete or outdated documents are the main cause of delays.
There is no standard fee across all product categories. Charges depend on:
Some authorities charge minimal processing fees, while others follow structured pricing.
Timelines depend on document accuracy and internal review procedures.
Always confirm validity requirements with your overseas buyer.
Renewal may be required when:
‣ Product license expires
‣ Manufacturing details change
‣ Export destination changes
‣ Importing country demands an updated FSC
Applying for renewal before expiry avoids export disruptions.
Many exporters face problems because of avoidable errors, such as:
☒ Applying under the wrong authority
☒ Submitting expired licenses
☒ Mismatch between product labels and approvals
☒ Assuming FSC is permanent
☒ Ignoring country-specific requirements
These mistakes can delay shipments and damage business relationships.
Failure to obtain an FSC when required can lead to:
⚠ Export shipment rejection
⚠ Delays at foreign customs
⚠ Loss of international buyers
⚠ Increased compliance scrutiny
⚠ Financial losses and reputational damage
In some cases, exporters must restart the approval process entirely.
If you’re unsure whether your product needs a Free Sale Certificate, or which authority to apply through, it’s better to check before exporting.At PSR Compliance, our experts help exporters understand requirements clearly and handle the application without delays or confusion.
📞 Call us at 7065883416 to get practical guidance before you ship.
What is the purpose of an FSC?It proves the product is legally sold in India and allowed for export.
Who issues the FSC in India?The FSC is issued by DGFT through its Regional Authorities.
Which products require an FSC?Cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, food products, and supplements.
What is the validity of an FSC?An FSC is valid for two years from the issue date.
Is an FSC the same as a Certificate of Origin?No, FSC confirms free sale status, not manufacturing origin.
Does an FSC guarantee product safety?No, it does not certify product safety or efficacy.
How do I apply for an FSC in India?Applications are filed online via the DGFT Certificate Management System.
What documents are needed for an FSC?Product details and proof of manufacture or sale in India are required.
Can an FSC be extended after expiry?No, a fresh FSC must be applied for after expiry.
What happens if I export without an FSC?The shipment may be rejected or returned by the importing country.