Customs Raid Finds 12 Illegals in German Hotel Industry
On Friday, September 19, 2025, the Financial Control Schwarzarbeit of the Customs (FKS) conducted random inspections in the hotel and catering industry across Germany. The inspections, supported by local authorities, targeted compliance with the legal minimum wage and social security obligations, as well as uncovering illegal employment and receipt of social benefits.
A total of 156 employees were inspected during the operation, with 12 individuals found to be illegally present in the country. The inspections were carried out by around 60 employees of the Krefeld Customs Office, with locations in Krefeld and Mönchengladbach. The Hauptzollamt Krefeld is likely responsible for continuing these inspections in the hotel and restaurant sector in Krefeld, Viersen, and surrounding areas.
The inspections involved comparing on-site data with company records and examining further business documents. Customs pays particular attention to combating black work in this industry, which is subject to the Minimum Wage Act (MiLoG). Since January 1, 2025, the general minimum wage has been 12.82 euros per hour.
Follow-up inspections will be conducted to ensure ongoing compliance with the legal minimum wage and social security obligations, and to prevent illegal employment and receipt of social benefits in the hotel and catering industry.
