Customs reveals: 65 suspected cases of illegal work in Saxony!

Customs reveals: 65 suspected cases of illegal work in Saxony!

In the last few days, the financial control of the customs' undeclared work (FKS) in Germany has once again struck. On June 16, 2025, eight construction sites in Dresden, Leipzig and eastern and northern Saxony were inspected in a comprehensive operation involving more than 100 customs officers. Over 260 workers from more than 60 companies were the focus of the audits, which are intended to ensure that statutory minimum wage regulations are adhered to.

The review showed that in 65 cases there were suspicions that required further investigation. Above all, there are allegations regarding minimum wage violations, withholding of contributions and illegal employment of foreigners. “The construction industry is heavily affected by undeclared work,” explains Heike Wilsdorf, press spokeswoman for the main customs office in Dresden. The complexity of company structures and concealment tactics make targeted controls essential, reports Bild.de.

The legal minimum wage in focus

Regular checks are necessary to ensure that the statutory minimum wage, which has been 12.82 euros gross per hour since January 1, 2025, is actually paid. According to the Minimum Wage Act, employers who employ workers in Germany are obliged to pay this minimum wage. The Federal Ministry of Finance informs that violations of the minimum wage regulations can be punished with fines of up to 500,000 euros.

During the audits, the FKS not only asks employees about their working conditions, but also analyzes the employers' business documents. This includes, among other things, payroll, financial and order accounting as well as working time records. The aim is to ensure that no unlawful practices such as incorrect employee designations or incomplete hourly records are used to circumvent legal requirements.

The use of the FKS: An important step against undeclared work

The FKS continuously carries out legally required and suspicion-free tests. These checks can also cover past periods and usually reveal high rates of abuse. In addition, the customs officers work closely with other authorities, such as the pension insurance, to put an end to undeclared work and illegal employment Zoll.de reported.

The affected companies not only run the risk of financial penalties, but also of being excluded from public contracts if they violate minimum wage regulations. This makes it clear how serious the federal government is about protecting the rights of employees and creating fair working conditions.

For anyone who has information or tips about possible violations, the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs' hotline is available on 030 60280028. Information can also be found on the website www.bmas.de/minestlohn be retrieved.