Insolvency benefits for illegal employment (Schwarzarbeit)

The general rule is that if you have worked, you are entitled to a wage. However, if you work illegally/without being registered/Schwarzarbeit, you may run into problems: The employment agency will check your employment relationship on the basis of the application for insolvency benefits. If they discover that you are not registered, the agency will report you and your employer to the Finanzkontrolle Schwarzarbeit at the customs authorities.

Illegal employment can be prosecuted. If you also received benefits from the employment agency, the job centre or social services while you were not registered for work, you will have to pay the money back. Depending on how much money you received, you may face a fine or criminal charges.