Germany's Customs Office Raids Hotel, Gastronomy Sector: 2,200 Violations Found
On Friday, September 19, 2025, the Customs Office conducted nationwide inspections across Germany's hotel and gastronomy sector. Over 170 individuals were involved, with numerous violations found, leading to criminal and administrative proceedings.
The inspections, involving over 2,600 customs employees, checked around 5,200 employees and 430 business records. Initial findings indicated possible violations in approximately 2,200 cases. Over 400 cases involved withheld social security contributions, around 450 cases concerned the employment of foreigners, and nearly 600 cases related to minimum wage compliance.
Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil emphasized the importance of these inspections for enforcing the rule of law and protecting workers from exploitation. He stated that tougher action is being taken against those who exploit the system. On-site, customs officers initiated around 370 criminal and nearly 800 administrative offense proceedings. Additionally, around 200 cases involved procedures for staying without a residence permit.
The inspections, focusing on minimum wage, social security obligations, social benefits, and illegal employment of foreigners, contribute significantly to securing social systems and state revenues. They ensure fair employment and competitive conditions in the sector. Further in-depth inspections, particularly of payroll and financial accounting, will follow based on employee statements recorded on-site.
