Potsdam in its sights: Major raid against undeclared work in restaurants!

Potsdam in its sights: Major raid against undeclared work in restaurants!

In a nationwide offensive against undeclared work, Potsdam Customs carried out a targeted inspection of the hotel and restaurant industry on September 19, 2025. More than 2,600 financial control employees were employed in undeclared work, including 50 employees from Potsdam and Neuruppin. A total of 16 objects and 76 people were checked. The results of this extensive campaign will be published early next week ad hoc news reported.

It is clear why the focus is on the hotel and catering industry in particular: these sectors are not only large employers, but are also often affected by undeclared work. The law on the minimum wage, which was increased to 12.82 euros per hour on January 1, 2025, is intended to ensure fair working conditions here. Therefore, compliance with the legal minimum wage, working time records, social security obligations and the identity of employees must be closely monitored.

Protection of social systems

The aim of these comprehensive examinations is twofold: on the one hand, social systems and state revenues are to be secured, and on the other hand, it is about fair competitive conditions for all companies in the country. The testing methods are diverse. In addition to standard controls, there are also personal surveys and a review of business documents, particularly in payroll and financial accounting. This highlights the need to resolutely combat undeclared work, supported by the expanded powers of financial control, such as Press portal informed.

The modernization and digitalization of the fight against undeclared work has long been underway. The current government draft provides for improved investigative tools and a strengthening of financial controls on undeclared work. Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil emphasizes the importance of resolutely combating tax and financial crime. By introducing automated data analyzes and cooperation with other offices, the FKS will be able to take action more effectively against illegal employment relationships, such as the Federal Ministry of Finance reported.

New challenges

The audits will be carried out across different sectors, with new hotspots such as barbershops and nail salons also being targeted. This shows that the challenges in the fight against undeclared work are constantly changing and a flexible response from the authorities is required. Particularly important are the obligations to carry and present identification documents, which are intended to clarify the identity of the employees.

By taking the measures, the government hopes not only to offer those affected a fair working environment, but also to reduce social imbalances in the country. Regular and preventative audits will continue to raise awareness of the legal situation and ensure compliance with the law. It remains to be seen how the situation will develop in the coming months and what further measures will be necessary to put a stop to undeclared work.