Operators of licensed brothels in Wels say illegal prostitution is increasing in the city and affecting their businesses. A local brothel owner claims that unregistered sex work carried out in apartments and hotel rooms is drawing customers away from regulated establishments.
According to him, more than 30 illegal sex workers are currently active in the Wels area. He argues that the situation is harming legal businesses and creating health and safety concerns.
Regulated Brothels Operate Under Strict Health Laws
In Austria, prostitution is legal but subject to clear rules. Anyone working as a sex worker must register with authorities and carry an official health booklet. Regular medical examinations are required, including monthly blood tests and gynecological check-ups.
Licensed brothels must also meet legal standards and are regularly inspected. The brothel operator in Wels says these controls are mandatory and documented.
He states that customers who visit a registered red-light establishment can expect compliance with health regulations.
He adds that inspections are frequent and detailed, and that legal businesses are required to follow every rule.
Unregistered Sex Work Avoids Oversight
The brothel owner claims that illegal prostitution does not follow these regulations. According to him, individuals offering sexual services without registration do not undergo official medical checks and do not pay taxes.
He says this lack of oversight increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections. He also alleges that in illegal settings, some clients pay extra for sex without a condom, which raises health concerns further.
Under Austrian law, working without registration or operating an unlicensed brothel is illegal.
Apartments and Hotels Used for Prostitution
The operator links the rise in illegal activity to the COVID-19 period, when many legal venues were forced to close temporarily. During that time, alternative arrangements developed.
He describes a system in which a middleman rents an apartment in Wels and sublets it at a higher price to women from countries such as Hungary, Romania, or Bulgaria.
In some cases, hotel rooms are reportedly used for the same purpose.
According to the brothel owner, earnings in this underground market can reach around 150 euros per hour, with two to three clients per day.
Beyond financial competition, the brothel operator raises safety concerns. In regulated red-light venues, staff members are present and certain security measures apply.
In private apartments or hotel rooms, individuals providing sexual services may be alone with clients.
He says situations involving alcohol or drugs can become unpredictable. Without on-site staff or security, there may be limited protection if a conflict arises.
Authorities Cite Shared Responsibility
The brothel owner claims that there are now more illegal sex workers in Wels than legal ones. He also says licensed businesses are subject to strict inspections, while unregistered activity continues.
Police responded that reports of illegal prostitution are followed up. However, they state that in such cases the financial police and health authorities are primarily responsible, particularly regarding tax violations and missing medical documentation.
Don’t miss this article which highlights why it is better for sex workers to work in legal brothels: