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Germany's Largest-Ever Hotel Sector Raid: 2,600 Officers Uncover 2,200 Labor Law Violations

A massive operation by German customs reveals widespread labor law violations in the hotel and restaurant sector. The raid, the largest of its kind, highlights the need for stricter enforcement to protect workers and maintain a level playing field for businesses.

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This picture is clicked inside the hotel and in front, we see a table on which white color cloth is...
This picture is clicked inside the hotel and in front, we see a table on which white color cloth is placed. On table, we see plates, fork, spoon, glass, branches of tree. Around the table, we see chairs and behind that we see the other table which is like green in color and behind that, we see a man wearing black blazer. Next to him, we see the girl standing and behind them, we see door on which exit is written on it and behind that door, we see two men standing.

Germany's Largest-Ever Hotel Sector Raid: 2,600 Officers Uncover 2,200 Labor Law Violations

On Friday, September 19, 2025, the Customs Financial Control of Illegal Employment (FKS) deployed over 2,600 customs employees to combat various labour and social security violations in Germany's hotel and restaurant sector. The operation, the largest of its kind, targeted untaxed social insurance obligations, unlawful receipt of social benefits, and unauthorized employment of foreigners.

Customs officers initiated around 370 criminal and nearly 800 administrative offense proceedings on-site. They inspected over 5,200 workers and 430 business records, finding potential violations in around 2,200 cases. Key issues included over 400 cases of withholding Social Security contributions, around 450 cases of foreign employment irregularities, and nearly 600 cases of minimum wage non-compliance. Additionally, nearly 200 cases involved staying without a residence permit.

These inspections are part of the FKS's risk-oriented approach, which can involve both random and full inspections of all employees of an employer. The authority conducts nationwide and regional focus inspections with increased personnel in black market-prone sectors to enforce the rule of law and protect workers from exploitation.

Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil praised the operation, stating that such enforcement actions are crucial to maintain a level playing field for businesses and protect workers' rights. The FKS will continue to monitor and address labour law violations to ensure compliance with Social Security and wage laws in the hotel and restaurant sector.

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