In many countries including the United States, it is generally illegal for employers to ask about an applicant's national origin during the hiring process as it can infringe upon anti-discrimination laws. As national origin is considered a protected characteristic, asking such a question can be seen as discriminatory and open the employer up to legal consequences. There are limited exceptions to this rule however, such as when necessary for specific job requirements or affirmative action programs. It is the responsibility of the employer to familiarize themselves with local employment laws and seek guidance to ensure compliance.