📘 1. Introduction
In Maharashtra, wholesale trade in foreign liquor (potable) and Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL) that’s not consumed on-premises requires a specific licence—Form F.L. I. This license allows import and sale of foreign liquor from customs frontier points, intended for off-premise consumption.
🗂️ 2. Types of Licenses Offered
Under the F.L. category, the following apply:
- F.L. I – Wholesale import and sale (not for consumption on premises)
- F.L. II – Retail shop licence
- F.L. III – Hotel sale for consumption
- F.L. IV – Clubs/Events
- F.L. L1 – Licence for manufacturers or importers for bonded operations
The F.L. I Licence is focused on wholesalers/importers dealing with international or interstate trade of potable foreign liquor and IMFL.
🧑💼 3. Who Needs These Services?
This licence is essential for:
- Businesses importing foreign liquor or beer
- Distributors handling large volume supply to licensed retailers
- Entities involved in duty-paid liquor import through customs
- Warehousing firms dealing in bulk liquor logistics
Without this licence, import and off-site sale are strictly illegal.
🤝 4. Why Choose a License Registration Service Provider?
Applying for an F.L. I licence involves complex state excise and customs documentation. A service provider helps by:
✅ Navigating import rules and customs clearances
✅ Accurate digital application and tracking
✅ Ensuring document compliance
✅ Managing brand label registration
✅ Preventing delays or rejection due to legal gaps
📌 It saves time, ensures accuracy, and keeps you legally compliant.
📝 5. Registration Process
Here’s a step-by-step guide to F.L. I registration in Maharashtra:
- Register
- Select Form F.L. I application
- Upload business PAN, GST, IEC code, and other legal documents
- Pay application and scrutiny fee online
- Submit premises layout and warehouse details
- Local Excise Inspector inspects the site
- Licence granted or rejected with reasons
✅ Ensure Customs NOC and Duty Paid Proof are ready beforehand.
📄 6. Required Documents
To apply, gather:
- Business PAN & Aadhaar (Proprietor/Directors)
- IEC (Import Export Code)
- GST Certificate
- Company MOA/AOA or Partnership Deed
- Lease/ownership proof of warehouse
- Bonded warehouse registration (if applicable)
- Import contract/agreement
- Label Registration Certificate
- Proof of duty payment (excise/customs)
- Affidavit of compliance
📥 All documents must be submitted in scanned PDF under 2MB.
💰 7. Cost Involved
| Item | Estimated Cost (INR) |
| Government Application Fee | ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,00,000 |
| Label Approval Fee (per brand) | ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Customs/NOC Charges (varies) | As per CBIC guidelines |
| Consultant Fee (optional) | ₹25,000+ |
💸 Final cost may vary based on volume, brands, and district zone.
⏱️ 8. Time Taken
- Application Filing – 1 to 3 days
- Document Scrutiny – 5 to 7 working days
- Warehouse Inspection – 7 to 10 working days
- Final Approval – 20 to 25 days
🕒 Total Time: Approx. 30–45 working days
⚠️ 9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Applying without IEC code
❌ Incomplete warehouse layout submission
❌ Not registering brand labels beforehand
❌ Submitting expired NOCs
❌ Ignoring state-wise distribution restrictions
💡 Double-check all dates, ownership details, and brand names before submission.
📞 10. Call-to-Action (CTA)
Need expert help for F.L. I Licence Registration in Maharashtra?
📧 Email us at opriyatrendingpvtltd@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp Support: +91 7588756518
🌐 Visit: www.opriyatrending.in
We handle end-to-end F.L. I Licence processing including excise compliance, document filing, customs clearance, and renewal.
❓ 11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is Form F.L. I?
It’s a wholesale licence for importing, storing, and selling foreign liquor (not for on-premise consumption) in Maharashtra.
Q2: Can an individual apply?
Only registered firms/companies with valid GST, IEC, and warehouse can apply.
Q3: Is Customs NOC required?
Yes, for each import consignment.
Q4: Is this license valid for selling liquor to end consumers?
No. This licence allows only wholesale transactions to licensed retailers.
Q5: How long is the licence valid?
Usually, 1 year. Renew it annually before expiry to avoid penalties.
