FSSAI License Renewal is a mandatory process for all Food Business Operators (FBOs) in India holding an FSSAI License (State or Central). It ensures that food businesses continue to adhere to food safety standards and regulations, allowing them to legally operate.
Why is FSSAI License Renewal Important?
Legal Mandate
Operating with an expired FSSAI license is illegal and can lead to severe penalties.
Continuity of Business
Timely renewal ensures that your food business can continue its operations without interruption.
Compliance
It’s an opportunity for FBOs to reaffirm their commitment to food safety and update any changes in their business operations.
Avoid Penalties
Failing to renew on time incurs substantial late fees and can lead to suspension or cancellation of the license.
Validity of FSSAI License
An FSSAI License (both State and Central) can be obtained for a period ranging from 1 year to 5 years, as chosen by the FBO during the initial application or renewal. The validity period is clearly mentioned on the FSSAI license certificate.
When to Apply for FSSAI License Renewal?
FSSAI has specific timelines for renewal applications to avoid penalties
Ideal Window (No Penalty)
An FBO can apply for renewal as early as 180 days (approximately 6 months) before the expiry date of the current license. To avoid any late fees, it is advisable to apply at least 30 days prior to the expiry date.
With Late Fee
- If the application is filed within 90 days before expiry but before the expiry date, a late fee of ₹100 per day will be charged in addition to the regular renewal fees.
After Expiry (Grace Period)
- FSSAI allows renewal even after the expiry date for a limited grace period (generally up to 180 days from the original expiry date), but with significant penalties:
- 1st day to 90th day after expiry: Penalty of 3 times the existing annual license/registration fee.
- 91st day to 180th day after expiry: Penalty of an additional 2 times (making it a total of 5 times) the existing annual license/registration fee.
Beyond 180 Days After Expiry
- If the renewal application is not submitted within 180 days of the license expiry, the license will expire permanently. The FBO will then have to apply for a fresh FSSAI license as if it’s a new business, and all business activities must stop until the new license is granted.
Process of FSSAI License Renewal (Online via FoSCoS):
The entire renewal process is conducted online through the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal (https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/).
Log in to FoSCoS
Use your FSSAI License number and password to log in.
Navigate to Renewal Section
Once logged in, look for the “Renewal” option on the left-hand side of the screen and select “Apply for Renewal of license/registration.”
Select License for Renewal
A list of your eligible licenses/registrations (those due for renewal) will be displayed. Click “Proceed” against the specific license you wish to renew.
- Note: Only licenses eligible for renewal (i.e., within the renewal window) will be listed.
Review Application Form (Form B or A)
The system will open the relevant application form (Form B for State/Central License, Form A for Basic Registration).
- Some details like Premises Details and Product Selection might be non-editable.
- Ensure all communication details are up-to-date (editable except for the registered address).
Self-Certification of Compliance
FBOs are generally required to self-certify that they comply with all the items in the inspection checklist and the requirements of Schedule 4 of the FSSAI regulations.
Upload Required Documents
Upload any mandatory supporting documents. While many details might be pre-filled from your previous application, documents might be required for changes or specific cases.
Select Validity Period
Choose the number of years for which you wish to renew the license (1 to 5 years).
Calculate Fees and Pay
The system will automatically calculate the applicable renewal fee based on the chosen validity period and any late fees if the application is delayed. Pay the fees online through the available payment gateway.
Submit Application
After successful payment, submit your renewal application.
Receive Acknowledgment
A receipt with a new 17-digit reference number will be generated. Keep this for tracking purposes.
Tracking Status
You can track the status of your renewal application on the FoSCoS website using the reference number.
Instant Renewal
In many cases, especially if all documentation is in order and no major changes are involved, renewals are processed instantly (without requiring physical approval from authorities). However, authorities may still order an inspection if deemed necessary.
Documents Typically Required for FSSAI License Renewal
While many details are pre-filled, it’s good to have these ready:
- Existing FSSAI License Copy.
- Identity and Address Proof of the Proprietor/Partners/Directors/Authorized Signatory.
- Board Resolution (for companies) or Partnership Deed (for partnership firms).
- Self-declaration of compliance with Food Safety Management System (FSMS) and Schedule 4 requirements.
- Annual Returns (Form D1/D2) should be filed up to date. (FSSAI has made it mandatory that all due annual returns must be submitted before a renewal application can be filed, along with any applicable penalties for late filing of returns).
- Any updated documents related to premises, machinery, food categories, etc., if there have been significant modifications since the last license issuance.
- FSMS Certificate or declaration.
- Nomination of Persons (Form IX) by a Company.
FSSAI Renewal Fees
The fees for FSSAI license renewal are generally the same as the fees for obtaining a new license or registration, for the corresponding validity period. These fees vary based on the type of license (Basic, State, or Central) and the type of food business.
- Basic FSSAI Registration: ₹100 per year.
- State FSSAI License: ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per year (depending on the type of business and capacity).
- Central FSSAI License: ₹7,500 per year (plus 18% GST).
It’s crucial for FBOs to be proactive with their FSSAI license renewal to avoid operational disruptions and financial penalties. Seeking assistance from a Taxation portal can help streamline the process and ensure timely adherence to all regulations.