What does the Zoll/Finanzkontrolle Schwarzarbeit control?

• The Finanzkontrolle Schwarzarbeit (FKS) is a unit of the customs authority. It monitors violations at work. On the one hand, it monitors violations by employers, such as exploitation and non-compliance with the minimum wage. On the other hand, it monitors employees, for example to check whether they have a work permit and residence permit. 
• You are obliged to cooperate, which means you must disclose your name, date of birth, place of residence and residence permit.
• However, you do not have to incriminate yourself if you are accused of violations! You can remain silent.
• The FKS/Zoll will not search your home.

What are the risks of working without permit?

• In the case of undocumented work, fines may be imposed. 
• Repeated work without permission may also result in criminal proceedings. 
• Unauthorised employment may result in your residence permit being confiscated. You must obtain a receipt from customs with an appointment at the immigration office.

Are you affected by exploitation and coercion?

• Do you receive little or no pay for your work? Do you owe money to your employer? Has he or she taken your passport? Are they putting pressure on you?
• Be sure to report this situation to FKS/Zoll! You can get help! Labour exploitation, forced labour and human trafficking are criminal offences. As a victim, you have the right to protection from deportation, safe accommodation, money for food and healthcare, and you will not be punished for working without a permit or residence status.
• Further information can be found here.

You can find advice and help here:

• Here you will find a portal for counselling centres dealing with forced labour.
• You can also contact the Berlin Advice Centre for Migration and Good Work /Berliner Zentrum für Migration und Gute Arbeit (BEMA).

All of the counseling centers listed here treat your information as strictly confidential and do not pass it on to authorities (such as the immigration office)!