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FSSAI Central License Guide: Mandatory for Importers and Exporters

Learn about the FSSAI Central License, the highest level of food safety compliance in India. Required for high-turnover businesses, imports, exports, and more.

National & Global Standards: The FSSAI Central License

The FSSAI Central License is the highest tier of food safety management in India. It is administered directly by the Central FSSAI Authority and is mandatory for businesses that have a national footprint or are involved in international food trade.

1. Who Must Have a Central License?

  • Large Turnover: Any business with an annual turnover exceeding **₹20 Crore**.
  • Importers & Exporters: Every person importing food into India or exporting to other countries.
  • Centrally Located: Food units in Airports, Seaports, Railways, and Defense premises.
  • Multiple States: Businesses having units/offices in two or more states.
  • Star Rated: Hotels with a rating of 4-star and above.

2. The Complex Approval Process

Central Licenses involve a more rigorous document scrutiny. Since the licenses are issued by the central headquarters, the standards for water testing, equipment calibration, and staff training (FoSTaC) are non-negotiable and highly monitored.

3. Why the Central License matters?

It allows for 'Centralized Monitoring' and is a prerequisite for getting an IEC (Import Export Code) verified for food categories. It signals to global partners and investors that your business meets the absolute peak of Indian food safety standards.

Master the top tier. Pragati Services specializes in complex Central License applications for exporters, importers, and national chains.

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In-Depth Summary: FSSAI Central License Guide: Mandatory for Importers and Exporters

To apply for FSSAI Central License Guide: Mandatory for Importers and Exporters, you need a valid Aadhaar, PAN card, and business proof. Registration is handled online via Pragati Services with an expected approval timeline of 3-7 working days.
⚡ Quick Guide (Zero-Click Answer)

Yes, the standard government fee for a Central License is ₹7,500 per year.

REQUIRED DOCS
  • Aadhaar/PAN Card of Proprietor
  • Business Address Proof / NOC
  • Passport Size Photograph
SERVICE DETAILS

License Type: FSSAI Registration

Validity: 1 - 5 Years

Filing Time: 24 Hours

How We Work

1. Login or Register

Login to your account or create a new one on the Citizen Portal.

2. Select FSSAI

Browse services and select 'FSSAI Registration' from the list.

3. Pay Service Fee

Make a secure online payment of the service fee.

4. Submit Application

Your application is submitted instantly to our team.

What happens next?

• An invoice is automatically generated and available for your records.

• You can track the live status of your application in the 'My Applications' section.

• Our dedicated Pragati support team will contact you within 4–5 hours to collect the required documents and complete the processing.

Knowledge Database (FAQs)

Yes, the standard government fee for a Central License is ₹7,500 per year.

A Central License for the Head Office is often paired with unit-level licenses (State or Central depending on the unit's turnover) to ensure localized compliance.

Like other tiers, you can choose between 1 and 5 years of validity.

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