FSSAI License Surrender Process | How to Cancel or Surrender Your License Online

Introduction to FSSAI License Surrender

If you're closing your food business or shifting operations permanently, you may be required — or choose — to **surrender your FSSAI license** to keep your records clean and avoid unnecessary compliance issues.

The **Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)** provides an official process to **cancel or surrender your license voluntarily** if you no longer wish to operate as a food business in India.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• What is FSSAI license surrender?
• When should you surrender your license?
• How to apply for license cancellation online
• Documents required
• Penalties for not surrendering expired licenses
• Latest updates for 2024

💡 Tip: Surrendering your FSSAI license helps avoid future notices or penalties from authorities if your business is no longer active.

What Is FSSAI License Surrender?

FSSAI license surrender refers to the voluntary cancellation of your FSSAI registration or license when you are shutting down your food business or moving out of food operations entirely.

This is different from **license suspension or cancellation by FSSAI** due to violations. Surrender is initiated by the applicant and must be done before or after closure of business operations.

When Should You Apply for FSSAI License Surrender?

You can surrender your FSSAI license in the following situations:

• Permanent closure of your restaurant, hotel, or food unit
• Shifting your business outside India
• Moving to non-food business operations
• Retirement or discontinuation of home-based food business
• Consolidating multiple licenses under one new license

⚠️ Note: You can also surrender your license even after expiry, but it’s better to do so while it's still active to avoid complications.

Difference Between Surrender, Suspension, and Cancellation

It’s important to understand the difference between these three terms:

Type	Meaning	Initiated By
Surrender	You voluntarily give up your license	Applicant
Suspension	License temporarily put on hold due to violations	FSSAI / State Authority
Cancellation	Permanent revocation of license	FSSAI / Food Safety Commissioner

Is There Any Fee for Surrendering FSSAI License?

No, there is **no fee** for surrendering your FSSAI license. However, if you have any pending dues (like renewal fees), those must be cleared before applying for surrender.

Documents Required for FSSAI License Surrender

You do not need to submit many documents for surrendering your license. Here’s what’s typically required:

• Copy of your current FSSAI license (Basic Registration, State, or Central)
• Aadhaar card of owner/operator
• Reason for surrender (written statement)
• Optional: Closure proof like shop vacated notice or rent agreement termination

How to Apply for FSSAI License Surrender – Step-by-Step Guide

To surrender your FSSAI license, follow these steps:

1. Log in to the FSSAI Portal: Visit https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in/ and log in using your license number and password
2. Navigate to “License Surrender” Section
3. Fill Out the Surrender Application Form with personal and business details
4. Provide Reason for Surrender (e.g., business closed, shifted to another state, changed to non-food business)
5. Submit the Application and download acknowledgment receipt
6. Wait for Confirmation from the licensing authority

✅ Pro Tip: Always keep a printed or digital copy of your surrender request and acknowledgment for future reference.

Can You Reactivate a Surrendered FSSAI License?

No, once surrendered, your FSSAI license cannot be reactivated. If you decide to start your food business again, you must apply for a new license using either Form A or Form B, depending on your turnover and type of business.

Penalties for Not Surrendering Expired or Unused Licenses

While there’s no direct penalty for keeping an expired license, failing to surrender it may lead to:

• Unnecessary inspection visits
• Notices from local authorities
• Confusion during license verification
• Possible legal action if someone uses your old license without permission

📌 Pro Tip: Surrendering your license ensures that your record shows the business has been discontinued legally.

What Happens After FSSAI License Surrender?

Once your surrender request is processed, the following changes occur:

• Your license status will change to “Surrendered” in the system
• You can no longer operate as a registered food business
• You’re not liable for future renewals or inspections
• Your data remains in the system for archival purposes

FAQs About FSSAI License Surrender

Q1. Can I surrender my FSSAI license if it has expired?

Yes, you can still apply for surrender even if your license has expired.

Q2. Do I need to pay any fee for surrendering FSSAI license?

No, surrender is free. But you must clear any overdue renewal or inspection fees before submitting the request.

Q3. Will my FSSAI license number be reused after surrender?

No, each license number is unique and not reassigned to other businesses.

Q4. What should I do if I receive a notice after surrendering my license?

Forward your surrender acknowledgment and license cancellation proof to the concerned officer to close the case.

Q5. Can I surrender only part of my license (e.g., one outlet)?

Yes, if you have multiple units, you can surrender individual licenses without affecting others.

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How to Check FSSAI License Surrender Status

You can verify whether your license has been marked as surrendered by checking your profile on the FSSAI portal or contacting the local office.

To track:

1. Visit FSSAI Licensing Portal
2. Login using your credentials
3. Go to “Status” > “License” > Check if it says “Surrendered”

Special Cases: Surrendering Multiple Licenses

If you own multiple FSSAI licenses (e.g., for different brands or outlets), you can surrender them individually or all at once.

Make sure to mention each license number and reason clearly during submission.

Conclusion

Understanding the **FSSAI license surrender process** is essential for every food business operator who is permanently closing their business or exiting the food industry.

Although optional, surrendering your license helps maintain clean records, avoid future notices, and ensure smooth transition or closure of operations.

Use this guide to surrender your license properly and stay compliant with Indian food safety laws.

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Related Articles

• FSSAI Penalty List 2024
• FSSAI License Renewal Process
• FSSAI NOC Application Process
• FSSAI License Transfer Between States

Need Help With FSSAI License Surrender?

Contact us today or visit the official FSSAI website to learn how to apply and complete the process safely.

This article is for informational purposes only. Always refer to the official FSSAI website or consult a licensed professional for accurate guidance.