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Customs Raids German Hotels: 6 Arrests, 11 Fines Over Minimum Wage

Customs' crackdown on minimum wage violations in Germany's hotel industry results in arrests and fines. The operation targeted one of the country's largest employment sectors.

There are group of employees walking into the area,behind them there is a gate and outside the gate...
There are group of employees walking into the area,behind them there is a gate and outside the gate there are many vehicles and buildings. Beside the employees in the right side,a woman is carrying two luggage bags with her hand.

Customs Raids German Hotels: 6 Arrests, 11 Fines Over Minimum Wage

On Friday, September 19, 2025, the Customs Financial Control Schwarzarbeit (FKS) conducted inspections in the hotel and catering industry throughout Germany. The Main Customs Office Augsburg led the operation in Swabia and Region 10 in Upper Bavaria, deploying 64 forces.

The inspection resulted in 6 criminal proceedings and 11 administrative fine proceedings initiated by customs officers. They visited 20 businesses and questioned 89 employees about their employment status. The operation aimed to ensure compliance with the Minimum Wage Act (MiLoG), which has a statutory minimum wage of 12.82 euros gross per hour since January 1, 2025. The hotel and catering industry, being one of the largest and most employment-intensive sectors, is subject to these regulations.

The Hauptzollamt Augsburg, led by Hans-Henning Kühne, played a significant role in the inspections. The operation highlights the commitment to enforcing minimum wage laws and combating illegal work practices in the hotel and catering industry.

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