A couple’s wedding celebrations in Vienna’s 21st district came to an abrupt end after financial police officers had to intervene following an anonymous complaint. Around 35 financial police officers were on duty together with the police and the Federal Office for Immigration and Asylum.
The wedding organizer recruited several people to grill, decorate and serve and drove them from Serbia to Vienna on a coach. The Serbian helpers tried to disguise themselves as wedding guests, sometimes despite wearing aprons and similar work clothes. They stated that they were relatives of the bride and groom and that they did not work.
“Even the most romantic celebration needs a clean accounting. Consistently combating illegal employment is of utmost importance to us. This campaign shows that we are taking decisive action against undeclared work and social abuse. We will take all necessary measures to protect the integrity of our labor market,” said Finance Minister Magnus Brunner.
After initial difficulties in filtering out those responsible, around 22 illegally employed Serbian citizens were identified and provisionally arrested in the entire kitchen, banquet hall and decoration area for violations of the Employment of Foreign Nationals Act. In addition, 26 violations of the general social security law were uncovered. Two reports were filed for social security fraud. This involves undeclared work while simultaneously receiving social benefits such as minimum security or unemployment benefit.
For illegal employment of foreigners, the employer faces penalties of 2,000 euros to 20,000 euros per employee and for illegal work of 730 euros to 2,180 euros per employee. Social security fraud carries prison sentences of up to three years for the perpetrator, often the employee.
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