Global Import Agent

FDA Food Facility Registration & Renewal Services

Facilities that manufacture, process, pack or hold food for consumption in the United States must register with FDA before starting and renew every other year between 1 October and 31 December of even-numbered years. Foreign facilities must designate a U.S. agent. FDA charges no registration fee (21 CFR 1.230, 1.231(c)). Global Import Agent handles registration, renewal and U.S. Agent representation for you.

· By the Global Import Agent team
Overview

Who needs to register with FDA?

Key facts from FDA food-facility registration rules.

See our U.S. Agent representation service.

  • Facilities must register before they begin manufacturing, processing, packing or holding food for consumption in the United States (21 CFR 1.230(a)).
  • Registrations must be renewed from 1 October through 31 December of each even-numbered year (21 CFR 1.230(b)).
  • FDA charges no fee to register or renew a food facility (21 CFR 1.231(c)).
  • A foreign facility must name a U.S. agent (21 CFR 1.232(c)).
  • A registration that is not renewed expires (21 CFR 1.241(b)).
Cargo containers moving through an international port

FDA Facility Registration

We handle the full FDA facility registration process for food, beverage, dietary supplement and cosmetic facilities.

  • Preparing and submitting your FDA facility registration
  • Ensuring accuracy in facility details to avoid delays or errors
  • Managing renewals during the biennial renewal period

US Agent Representation

Foreign facilities must appoint a US Agent as their official contact with the FDA, and we provide that representation.

  • Acting as your official US Agent for FDA communications
  • Addressing any FDA enquiries or issues on your behalf
  • Ongoing monitoring of regulatory updates relevant to your operations
Product documentation being reviewed for compliance
Food & Beverage

FDA Registration Agent

Biennial Renewal Assistance

FDA registration must be renewed every two years, and we manage the renewal so your registration stays active.

  • Automatic reminders and tracking of renewal deadlines
  • Submission of biennial renewal applications
  • Updates to facility information, if necessary

D-U-N-S Number Assistance

The FDA requires foreign facilities to provide a D-U-N-S Number for registration, and we can help you obtain one if you don't have it.

  • Guidance on obtaining a D-U-N-S Number
  • Accurately matching your DUNS number with your FDA registration
  • Ensuring your facility registration is complete and accepted

Compliance Monitoring

We keep you updated on FDA regulatory changes that may affect your registration or operations, and advise on any changes needed.

  • Regular monitoring of FDA regulations and guidance
  • Proactive alerts for changes that may require action
  • Support for adapting to new requirements

Additional FDA Compliance

Our FDA registration service can be paired with further compliance support as part of a wider FDA compliance package.

  • FDA Labelling Compliance Reviews for food, supplements and medical devices
  • FSVP Agent Services for US importers & distributors
  • Customs Documentation & Prior Notice Filing

How the registration process works

Registering with the FDA can be confusing, so we guide you through the process from start to finish.

  1. 1

    Get in touch and tell us about your facility

  2. 2

    We send you a short, simple questionnaire to collect the facility details

  3. 3

    We work with the FDA to get your facility registered

  4. 4

    We are appointed as your US Agent and communicate with the FDA on your behalf

  5. 5

    You receive your FDA registration number and certificate, and we continue to maintain your registration

Ongoing compliance support

  • Time-Saving

    We handle the registration paperwork and renewals, so you can focus on running your business.

  • Regulatory Assurance

    Stay on top of FDA registration requirements, including biennial renewals and facility updates.

  • Peace of Mind

    Reduce the risk of detentions, fines and operational disruption at the US border.

What you'll need

Have these facility details ready so registration or renewal goes through cleanly.

  • Accurate facility detailsName, address and activities that match your other records.
  • A D-U-N-S NumberMatched exactly to the details on your FDA registration.
  • A US AgentRequired for foreign facilities to handle FDA communications.
  • Your renewal timingKnow when the biennial renewal period falls for your facility.
  • Completed questionnaireOur short form collects the facility details we submit.
Free tool

Official sources

If your foreign food facility also needs a US contact, see our FDA US Agent service.

Related services: FDA US Agent service · 2026 renewal checklist

Client feedback

Trusted support, in our clients’ own words.

“Global Import Agent have successfully worked with me to land product in the U.S and remain compliant for FDA regulations. I'm really happy with their response times, and easy to use tech platform that facilitates the process.”
Jane MckayAstute Beverages
Frequently asked questions

FDA Registration Agent

Requirements vary by product and destination. These answers outline the starting point for the questions we receive most often.

Ask our team

What is FDA Registration, and why is it required?

FDA Registration is mandatory for domestic and foreign food facilities that manufacture, process, pack, or store food for consumption in the US. Registration ensures the FDA can quickly identify and contact facilities in the event of a public health issue. Non-compliance may lead to import detentions or refusal of entry.

How much does FDA food facility registration cost?

FDA charges no fee to register or renew a food facility (21 CFR 1.231(c)). You don't have to use a third-party service. Companies such as Global Import Agent charge for their own work, for example acting as your U.S. agent.

Can you assist with non-compliance issues identified during an FDA audit?

Yes, we provide expert support to resolve non-compliance issues quickly and effectively. Whether it’s updating supplier records, correcting labeling errors, or assisting with corrective action plans, we’ll guide you through the process to achieve compliance.

What is the Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP)?

The FSVP is an FDA regulation that requires US importers to verify that their foreign suppliers produce food that meets US safety standards. This includes ensuring the food is not adulterated or misbranded and complies with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).

Why do I need an FSVP Agent?

If you’re a foreign supplier shipping food products to the US, you are required to designate a US-based FSVP Agent to ensure compliance with FDA regulations. An FSVP Agent handles verification, record-keeping, and communication with the FDA on your behalf, helping you avoid penalties or import delays.

What should I do if my shipment is detained?

If your shipment is detained you should contact us immediately, we can assist you with:

  • Determining the cause of detention
  • Communicating with the FDA or CBP
  • Preparing and submitting the required documents for release
  • Implementing corrective actions to prevent future detentions

Can you help with FDA labeling compliance?

Yes, we offer comprehensive labeling compliance services, including reviewing your product labels to ensure they meet FDA requirements for nutrition facts, allergen statements, claims (e.g., "organic"), and more.

Discuss your requirements

Talk through your product and target market with our team.

Consultation

Tell us what you need to import.

Share your product, target market and compliance question. A member of our team will respond promptly.

Scope your product and target market
Identify the applicable regulatory route
Receive a clear proposal and next steps