Customs Raid German Hotels: 12 Illegals Found
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 aim was to ensure compliance with the legal minimum wage and social security obligations, and to uncover illegal employment and receipt of social benefits.
The Hauptzollamt Krefeld, with locations in Krefeld and Mönchengladbach, led the inspections. Around 60 employees were involved, checking a total of 156 employees. They were supported by local authorities and finance offices in the districts of Viersen, Neuss, and Mönchengladbach.
The inspections come as the hotel and catering industry is a focus for combating black work due to its size and employment intensity. The general minimum wage was set at 12.82 euros per hour from January 1, 2025. The responsible authority for coordinating these actions is the Federal Ministry of Finance, led by the Customs Department Head Bastian Fleig.
The inspections resulted in the discovery of 12 people illegally present in the country. Respective foreign offices will handle further processing. The customs contribute to securing social systems and state revenues, ensuring fair working and competitive conditions.
