Are employers allowed to ask job applicants about their national origin?

In California, the answer to this question is generally no. Employers are not allowed to ask job applicants about their national origin. This includes questions on job applications, during interviews, or any other form of communication. The law in California, which applies to employers with five or more employees, bans any form of discrimination based on national origin. This includes asking about someone’s place of birth, ancestry, or native language. It also covers the hiring process, as employers cannot refuse to consider qualified applicants because of their national origin. However, employers can ask questions related to language proficiency. If an applicant’s language skills are necessary for the job, the employer may ask about the applicant’s language abilities. They must avoid any questions about the applicant’s family background, origin, or native language. Employers who violate California’s employment law by asking about an applicant’s national origin potentially face severe penalties. This could include the payment of damages to the applicant and loss of their business license. In conclusion, the answer to this question in California is generally no. Employers are not allowed to ask job applicants about their national origin. This includes asking about an applicant’s place of birth, ancestry, or native language. They are, however, allowed to ask questions related to language proficiency as long as they avoid questions about an applicant’s family background, origin, or native language.

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Are employers allowed to ask job applicants about their national origin?

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