Singapore’s vibrant food scene is one of its strongest attractions, drawing locals and tourists to hawker centres, cafés, bakeries, restaurants, and food kiosks daily. With such high demand for good food, many entrepreneurs dream of starting their own F&B business. However, before you can begin selling even a single dish, you must secure a Food Licence in Singapore. This is a legal requirement regulated by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) to ensure that all food sold in the country is safe for consumption.
If you are planning to open a food business, this guide will help you understand the licensing requirements, application process, costs, timelines, and crucial do’s and don’ts.
What Is a Food Licence in Singapore?
A Food Licence—officially called the Food Shop Licence—is a permit issued by SFA that allows businesses to prepare, handle, and sell food. It is mandatory for all establishments involved in food and beverage operations, regardless of size or business model.
The Food Licence ensures that your business:
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Operates in a hygienic environment
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Handles food safely
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Meets structural and operational standards
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Protects customers from foodborne risks
Running a food business without a valid licence is an offence that may result in penalties or immediate closure.
Who Needs a Food Licence?
You will need to apply for a Food Shop Licence if your business falls into any of the following categories:
1. Restaurants, Cafés and Bistros
Full-service restaurants, themed cafés, and small eateries all require licensing before operations begin.
2. Hawker Stalls and Food Court Units
Each stall within a hawker centre, coffeeshop, or food court needs a separate licence, even if multiple stalls are owned by the same operator.
3. Beverage and Dessert Outlets
Bubble tea shops, juice bars, ice cream stores, yogurt shops, and bakeries fall under SFA’s licensing.
4. Takeaway and Grab-and-Go Kiosks
Small retail counters in malls or MRT stations, even without dining space, must be licensed to operate.
5. Catering Kitchens and Centralised Food Facilities
Central kitchens supplying multiple outlets and caterers preparing food in bulk must apply for a Food Shop Licence or a specialised food processing licence.
6. Cloud Kitchens and Delivery-Only Brands
With the rise of food delivery apps, ghost kitchens and virtual restaurants require proper licensing as long as food is prepared onsite.
7. Certain Home-Based Food Businesses
While low-risk home-based sales are allowed, businesses preparing higher-risk items may require licensing depending on scale and food type.
What You Need Before Applying
The approval process begins long before submitting an online application. SFA requires specific documents, facility features, and hygiene standards to be in place.
1. A Compliant Layout Plan
Your shop must follow the correct workflow—from receiving raw ingredients to cooking to serving. The layout plan must show:
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Cooking stations
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Dishwashing sinks
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Hand-washing basins
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Ingredient storage
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Fridge and freezer placement
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Waste disposal area
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Exhaust hood system
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Grease trap (if applicable)
The plan must clearly separate raw and cooked food preparation zones.
2. Food Safety Trained Staff
At least one food handler must complete the Food Safety Course Level 1, which covers hygiene practices, contamination prevention, and safe food handling.
3. Proper Infrastructure and Equipment
Your premises should include:
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Food-grade preparation surfaces
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Commercial chillers and freezers
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Stainless steel sinks
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Hand soap and drying facilities
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Non-slip, washable flooring
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Adequate lighting and ventilation
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Pest-proof doors and windows
4. Pest Control System
Regular pest control service must be documented, especially for kitchens with high food handling volume.
5. Fire Safety Measures
If you use gas stoves or heavy cooking equipment, you must follow SCDF’s fire safety requirements.
How to Apply for a Food Licence in Singapore
The Food Shop Licence application is done entirely online through the GoBusiness Licensing Portal.
Step 1: Submit Application Online
Using your CorpPass, submit:
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Shop layout plan
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Tenancy agreement
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Description of food operations
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Details of equipment used
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Proposed menu
Step 2: Wait for In-Principle Approval (IPA)
After reviewing your documents, SFA will issue an IPA if everything is in order. This allows you to begin renovating and preparing the shop according to the approved plan.
Step 3: Prepare for Inspection
Once your shop is ready, schedule an inspection with SFA. During the inspection, officers will assess:
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Cleanliness and hygiene
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Proper equipment placement
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Waste management systems
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Food storage practices
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Ventilation and exhaust setup
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Food safety certification
If any issues arise, you must rectify them before requesting a re-inspection.
Step 4: Receive Your Food Licence
Once the shop passes inspection, your Food Licence will be issued digitally. You may then officially open for business.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Most applications take 10 to 15 working days, but this timeline depends on:
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Whether documents were submitted correctly
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Renovation progress
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Installation of compliant equipment
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Food safety training completion
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Successful inspection
Delays often occur when floor plans do not follow SFA guidelines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
First-time business owners often face unnecessary delays due to avoidable mistakes, such as:
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Failing to include enough hand-washing sinks
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Incorrect kitchen workflow planning
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Using non-food-grade finishing materials
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Forgetting to install grease traps
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Not training staff in food safety early enough
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Relying on contractors unfamiliar with SFA regulations
Working with experienced F&B designers or consultants can help prevent these setbacks.
Conclusion: Secure Your Food Licence the Right Way
Obtaining a Food Shop Licences in Singapore is an essential step in launching a successful F&B business. With proper planning, a compliant shop layout, trained staff, and a clear understanding of SFA requirements, you can complete the licensing process smoothly and begin operations without unnecessary delays.
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