Illegal employment = Schwarzarbeit = working without being registered

Potential consequences for you!

Illegal employment, i.e. working without being registered with the social insurance authorities and without paying taxes, is prohibited (illegal) in Germany. Your employer must register you with the social insurance system and the tax office. That is his duty. If he/she fails to do so, he/she risks punishment.

If you receive benefits from social services, the job centre or employment agency and start work, you must register this immediately. If you don’t, you may be fined or prosecuted. You will also have to pay back any benefits you have received.

If you need a work permit but work without one, you may be fined or prosecuted. The customs authorities can also pass this information on to the Foreigners' Registration Office. This can affect your residence status!

You should therefore always make sure that you are legally employed / a registered employee.