FSSAI License for Restaurants and Hotels in India – 2025 Guide

Running a restaurant or hotel in India? Obtaining an FSSAI License is a legal requirement for anyone involved in food preparation, storage, distribution, or sale. This 2025 guide explains the step-by-step process of how to apply for FSSAI license, renewal, and verification—ensuring your business remains compliant, credible, and customer-trusted.

What is FSSAI License?

The FSSAI License (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) is a mandatory registration for all food business operators (FBOs) in India. Whether you own a café, restaurant, cloud kitchen, or 5-star hotel, this license ensures your food is safe, hygienic, and meets government quality standards.

The FSSAI License Number—a 14-digit code printed on your food packaging or restaurant menu—represents your business’s registration under FSSAI. It’s not just a compliance mark; it’s a symbol of trust and transparency.

Why Restaurants and Hotels Need FSSAI License

Food safety is non-negotiable. In India’s competitive hospitality industry, having an FSSAI License not only builds customer trust but also prevents heavy penalties.

Here’s why it’s essential:

✅ Legal Compliance – Mandatory under the FSSAI Act, 2006 for all food businesses.

✅ Customer Trust – A visible FSSAI logo assures customers about food quality.

✅ Business Expansion – Required to open branches, franchises, or expand hotel chains.

✅ Online Listings – Necessary for partnerships with Swiggy, Zomato, or delivery apps.

✅ Government Tenders & Exports – Essential to apply for food supply contracts or export permissions.

Types of FSSAI License in India

The type of license depends on your business turnover and scale of operation.

FSSAI License for Hotels and Restaurants

Hotels and restaurants must obtain the State or Central FSSAI License, depending on their scale: → Small Restaurants / Cloud Kitchens → Basic Registration

→ Mid-Range Hotels / Franchises → State License

→ 5-Star Hotels / Chain Restaurants → Central FSSAI License

Each outlet must be individually registered under FSSAI even if owned by the same company.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for FSSAI License (2025)

Here’s how you can apply for FSSAI license online in 2025:

1️⃣ Step 1 – Determine Your Category Identify whether you need a Basic, State, or Central license based on your turnover.

2️⃣ Step 2 – Gather Required Documents Prepare the following:

➔PAN card & Aadhar card of business owner

➔Business address proof (rent agreement / utility bill)

➔Food safety management plan

➔List of food products

➔NOC from local municipality

➔Photo ID proof of owner

➔Business registration (GST / Udyam / Trade License)

3️⃣ Step 3 – Visit the FSSAI Portal – the official FSSAI portal for registration.

4️⃣ Step 4 – Fill Application Online Select your category, fill the form, and upload all documents carefully.

5️⃣ Step 5 – Pay the Prescribed Fee The FSSAI license fee depends on your business scale:

➔Basic Registration: ₹100 per year

➔State License: ₹2,000–₹5,000 per year

➔Central License: ₹7,500 per year

6️⃣ Step 6 – Inspection & Approval The local food safety officer may inspect your premises before approval.

7️⃣ Step 7 – Receive FSSAI Certificate Once approved, download your FSSAI License Certificate online and display it at your business premises.

Documents Required for FSSAI License

⬥ ID and Address Proof of Business Owner

⬥ Food Safety Management Plan

⬥ List of Directors / Partners

⬥ Product List and Food Category

⬥ Rent Agreement / Ownership Proof

⬥ Form IX Nomination (for large setups)

FSSAI License Renewal (2025 Update)

Your FSSAI license must be renewed 30 days before expiry to avoid penalties. Renewal Process:

➤ Log in to foscos.fssai.gov.in

➤ Select “Renew License/Registration”

➤ Update your business details

➤ Pay the renewal fee online

➤ Download renewed certificate after approval

Note : If you miss the renewal deadline, your license will lapse, and your business must reapply for a new registration.

How to Check FSSAI License Status

You can check FSSAI license number or verification status online by:

• Visiting the official FSSAI verification portal

• Entering your 14-digit license number

• Checking license validity, holder name, and registration type

Benefits of FSSAI License for Hotels & Restaurants

✔ Legal Operation – Avoid fines, bans, or closure.

✔ Customer Trust – Builds brand reputation in hospitality.

✔ Online & Offline Growth – Allows partnerships with delivery platforms.

✔ Government Recognition – Eligible for food-related tenders.

✔ Ease in Expansion – Simplifies interstate business operations.

How PSR Compliance Can Help

At PSR Compliance, we specialize in helping restaurants, hotels, and food chains obtain their FSSAI license quickly and smoothly.

Here’s how we assist you:

✔️ Free eligibility consultation (Basic, State, or Central License)

✔️ Document preparation and application filing

✔️ Assistance in inspections and renewals

✔️ Dedicated compliance manager for your business

✔️ 100% online process – no physical visits required

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the validity of an FSSAI License?

A: The license is valid for 1–5 years and must be renewed before expiry.

Q2. Can I apply for FSSAI license online?

A: Yes, you can apply via the official portal https://foscos.fssai.gov.in .

Q3. What happens if I don’t have an FSSAI license?

A: Operating without it may lead to fines up to ₹5 lakhs or closure of your business.

Q4. Is FSSAI license mandatory for small food businesses?

A: Yes, even small outlets or home kitchens must register under FSSAI.

Q5. Can PSR Compliance help with FSSAI license renewal?

A: Absolutely! PSR Compliance handles renewal, documentation, and updates on your behalf.