Introduction
Norway is an attractive destination for international professionals looking for employment opportunities, competitive wages, a high standard of living, and long-term career development in Europe. The country has a strong economy supported by energy, maritime industries, healthcare, engineering, information technology, construction, fisheries, and renewable energy.
For foreigners planning to work abroad in 2027, Norway may offer opportunities in industries that need qualified professionals and experienced workers. However, finding a job is only one part of the process. Applicants from outside the European Union and European Economic Area generally need the appropriate residence permit to work legally in Norway.
Unlike countries that use the term “visa sponsorship” for several employment routes, Norway commonly requires non-EU/EEA applicants to qualify for a residence permit based on their employment or another eligible category. The most relevant route for many skilled professionals is the skilled worker residence permit.
This guide explains potential jobs in Norway for foreign applicants, estimated salaries, work permit requirements, application procedures, and ways to avoid employment scams.
The information is intended for people applying from Nigeria and other countries outside Europe who want to understand how to pursue legitimate employment opportunities in Norway in 2027.
Why Consider Working in Norway in 2027?
Norway is known for its developed economy, natural resources, modern infrastructure, and established employee protections. Although the country has a relatively small population, it operates important industries that employ both domestic and international professionals.
1. Competitive wages
Many Norwegian occupations offer comparatively strong salaries, particularly in engineering, energy, healthcare, information technology, and management.
However, wages differ by occupation, experience, location, employer, and collective agreement. A high gross salary does not necessarily translate into equally high disposable income because taxes and living costs must also be considered.
2. Opportunities in specialised industries
Norway has established expertise in offshore energy, maritime engineering, aquaculture, electricity, environmental technology, and industrial operations.
These industries may recruit workers whose qualifications and experience match specific technical requirements.
3. Employee protections
Norwegian employment rules cover matters such as working hours, leave, workplace safety, and employment contracts. The exact terms available depend on applicable law, collective agreements, and the contract itself.
Foreign workers should understand their employment rights before accepting an offer.
4. Potential family and long-term residence opportunities
Some employment-based residence permits may allow eligible family members to apply for residence. Skilled workers may also qualify for permanent residence in the future if they satisfy the applicable residence and other requirements.
Neither family reunification nor permanent residence should be assumed to be automatic.
5. A strong focus on safety and professional standards
Norwegian employers generally place importance on workplace safety, technical competence, and formal qualifications in many industries.
Candidates who can demonstrate relevant experience, professional training, and a commitment to safety may be better positioned for suitable vacancies.
What Is Norway Visa Sponsorship?
Visa sponsorship is a common expression used by international job seekers to describe an employer helping a foreign applicant obtain permission to work in another country.
In Norway, the precise process depends on the applicant’s nationality, occupation, qualifications, and employment arrangement.
For many applicants from outside the EU/EEA, the skilled worker residence permit is an important route to investigate.
A qualifying applicant generally needs a concrete job offer from a Norwegian employer. The position must satisfy the applicable conditions, including requirements relating to qualifications, salary, and working conditions.
An employer’s willingness to hire a foreign worker does not automatically mean the applicant qualifies for a residence permit.
Main employment-related routes
Skilled worker residence permit
This route is designed for qualifying applicants who have relevant vocational training, higher education, or other accepted specialist qualifications and a suitable job offer.
Seasonal worker residence permit
Certain temporary jobs may qualify under seasonal worker rules. This is a separate category with its own requirements and limitations. Seasonal employment should not be confused with a long-term skilled worker position.
Other specialised permits
Researchers, trainees, certain exchange participants, and other eligible applicants may qualify under different residence categories.
The correct route depends on the actual circumstances. Applicants should confirm the rules in force when submitting an application in 2027.
Top Norway Visa Sponsorship Jobs for Foreigners in 2027
The following occupations and industries may offer opportunities for qualified international applicants. The salary figures are illustrative gross annual estimates in Norwegian kroner (NOK), not guaranteed offers or official immigration salary thresholds.
1. Software Developer
Norwegian technology companies and organisations across different industries employ software developers to create applications, digital platforms, business systems, and online services.
Potential roles include:
- Backend developer
- Frontend developer
- Full-stack developer
- Mobile application developer
- Software engineer
- Cloud developer
- Systems developer
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 600,000–1,000,000 or more.
Experienced developers with expertise in modern programming languages, cloud systems, databases, software architecture, and secure application development may find suitable vacancies.
Employers may consider candidates with relevant degrees or demonstrable professional experience, depending on the role and immigration requirements.
English may be sufficient in some international technology teams, although Norwegian language skills can expand the range of available opportunities.
2. Cybersecurity Specialist
Cybersecurity specialists help protect business systems, networks, customer data, and critical infrastructure against digital threats.
Potential positions include security analyst, penetration tester, security engineer, information security consultant, and incident response specialist.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 650,000–1,100,000 or more.
Typical requirements include practical security experience, network knowledge, incident management skills, and familiarity with security standards and tools.
Some positions may require Norwegian language proficiency, security clearance, or eligibility restrictions that affect international applicants.
3. Data Scientist and Data Engineer
Businesses use data analysis to improve decision-making, forecast demand, understand customer behaviour, and optimise operational processes.
Data scientists develop analytical models, while data engineers build and maintain the systems used to collect and process information.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 650,000–1,100,000 or more.
Applicants may need experience with Python, SQL, statistical analysis, cloud platforms, data pipelines, and machine-learning methods.
A portfolio demonstrating completed projects can help candidates show their abilities to potential employers.
4. Petroleum Engineer
Norway has a significant offshore energy industry, creating demand for specialised professionals in petroleum engineering, drilling, reservoir management, and production operations.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 750,000–1,300,000 or more, depending on experience and role.
Typical requirements include an appropriate engineering qualification, knowledge of petroleum systems, and relevant industry experience.
Some offshore positions require additional safety training, medical clearance, or industry-specific certification.
Applicants should verify these requirements before accepting a position, particularly if the role involves offshore installations.
5. Electrical Engineer
Electrical engineers work in energy, industrial automation, infrastructure, maritime systems, and manufacturing.
Responsibilities may include designing electrical systems, testing equipment, improving energy efficiency, and maintaining technical installations.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 600,000–950,000 or more.
Typical requirements include a relevant technical qualification, knowledge of electrical safety, design experience, and familiarity with industry standards.
Certain technical roles may require local authorisation or additional certification. Candidates should distinguish general engineering positions from regulated electrical installation work.
6. Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers help design, test, operate, and maintain machinery, industrial equipment, vehicles, energy systems, and maritime technology.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 600,000–950,000 or more.
Potential positions include mechanical design engineer, maintenance engineer, production engineer, project engineer, and automation engineer.
Employers may seek knowledge of computer-aided design tools, manufacturing processes, equipment maintenance, and technical project management.
Experience in offshore equipment, maritime engineering, industrial automation, or advanced manufacturing may be particularly relevant to some employers.
7. Registered Nurse
Norway employs nurses in hospitals, care facilities, community health services, and other healthcare settings.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 450,000–700,000 or more, depending on experience, specialisation, employer, and working arrangements.
International applicants must understand that nursing is a regulated profession. Foreign-trained nurses generally need the appropriate authorisation and must meet the relevant qualification and language requirements.
The process may involve assessment of education, documentation, professional competence, and additional requirements determined by the relevant Norwegian authorities.
A job offer alone does not permit an overseas nurse to practise without the necessary authorisation.
8. Doctor and Medical Specialist
Norway recruits doctors and specialists for hospitals, healthcare facilities, and other medical services.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 750,000–1,500,000 or more, depending on specialty, seniority, working hours, and employer.
Doctors trained abroad must meet Norway’s medical authorisation and licensing requirements. Applicants educated outside the EU/EEA may face additional assessment, documentation, language, or professional competence requirements.
Norwegian language proficiency is generally essential for patient-facing clinical work.
Qualified doctors should investigate professional recognition before investing heavily in a job application.
9. Civil Engineer
Civil engineers contribute to roads, bridges, buildings, tunnels, transport infrastructure, and water management projects.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 600,000–950,000 or more.
Potential roles include structural engineer, site engineer, infrastructure engineer, project engineer, and water resources engineer.
Employers may require a relevant engineering degree, experience with design software, knowledge of technical standards, and the ability to work with contractors and project teams.
Norwegian language ability can be particularly valuable for roles involving construction sites, local regulations, and public-sector clients.
10. Renewable Energy Engineer
Norway’s electricity and energy industries create opportunities in hydropower, wind power, grid infrastructure, energy storage, and environmental engineering.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 600,000–1,000,000 or more.
Potential positions include renewable energy engineer, power systems engineer, electrical design engineer, energy analyst, and project manager.
Typical requirements include relevant engineering qualifications, knowledge of energy systems, and experience with technical planning or project delivery.
Candidates with specialist knowledge of power distribution, grid integration, or renewable energy project development may be suitable for certain roles.
11. Construction Project Manager
Construction and infrastructure employers need experienced professionals to plan projects, manage budgets, coordinate contractors, and monitor safety and quality.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 650,000–1,100,000 or more.
Typical requirements include construction or engineering experience, project planning, risk management, and knowledge of relevant technical standards.
Candidates may benefit from experience delivering complex infrastructure or industrial projects.
However, not every construction vacancy qualifies for an employment-based residence permit. The applicant must meet the requirements of the relevant immigration route.
12. Maritime Engineer
Norway has a well-established maritime sector involving shipping, shipbuilding, marine technology, offshore services, and vessel operations.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 600,000–1,100,000 or more, depending on the role and experience.
Potential positions include marine engineer, naval architect, ship systems engineer, maritime project engineer, and technical superintendent.
Applicants may need maritime qualifications, technical experience, safety training, or professional certification.
Seagoing roles can have additional requirements that differ from shore-based engineering positions.
13. Fish Farming and Aquaculture Specialist
Aquaculture is an important Norwegian industry. Employers may recruit workers for fish health, production management, technical operations, marine biology, and aquaculture engineering.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 450,000–850,000 or more, depending on responsibilities and experience.
Potential roles include aquaculture technician, fish health specialist, production supervisor, marine biologist, and aquaculture engineer.
Specialised positions may require relevant qualifications or practical industry experience.
Applicants should check whether the role is permanent, seasonal, or temporary and whether the corresponding work authorisation route is available.
14. Industrial Maintenance Technician
Manufacturing, energy, maritime, and industrial employers need technicians who can inspect, maintain, and repair equipment.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 450,000–750,000 or more.
Typical requirements may include vocational training, practical experience, knowledge of machinery, fault diagnosis, and workplace safety.
Some positions may be suitable for candidates with strong technical experience, but the residence permit requirements still need to be satisfied.
Applicants should be cautious about advertisements promising long-term work permits for general labour positions without explaining the relevant legal route.
15. Accountant and Financial Analyst
Norwegian businesses recruit financial professionals for accounting, budgeting, reporting, risk analysis, and financial planning.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 550,000–950,000 or more.
Typical requirements include relevant financial qualifications, experience with reporting systems, analytical skills, and knowledge of accounting practices.
International companies may offer roles in English, while other employers may require Norwegian language proficiency and familiarity with local tax or reporting rules.
16. Research Scientist
Universities, laboratories, and private companies employ researchers in engineering, environmental science, biotechnology, physics, chemistry, and other disciplines.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 500,000–900,000 or more, depending on qualifications, institution, and seniority.
Potential positions include research scientist, laboratory specialist, research engineer, doctoral researcher, and postdoctoral researcher.
Applicants may need postgraduate education, research experience, technical skills, or publications relevant to the vacancy.
Research appointments may have specific employment and immigration arrangements, so candidates should read the offer carefully.
17. Logistics and Supply Chain Specialist
Norwegian employers require professionals to coordinate transportation, procurement, warehousing, inventory, and supply chain operations.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 450,000–800,000 or more.
Potential positions include logistics coordinator, supply chain analyst, procurement specialist, transport planner, and operations manager.
Employers may value experience with inventory systems, procurement procedures, data analysis, and international shipping.
Applicants should determine whether the role requires specialist qualifications and whether the position supports the residence permit category they intend to use.
18. Hotel and Hospitality Professional
Hotels, restaurants, and tourism businesses recruit workers for guest services, kitchen operations, supervision, and management.
Illustrative annual gross salary: NOK 380,000–650,000 or more, depending on the position, location, working hours, and experience.
Potential roles include hotel manager, chef, restaurant supervisor, and specialised hospitality professional.
Applicants should understand that general hospitality jobs do not automatically qualify for the skilled worker residence permit. Seasonal work may follow a different route with its own conditions.
A genuine employer must explain the lawful employment arrangement and the applicant must qualify for the relevant permit.
Can Foreigners Get Norway Jobs Without a University Degree?
Some foreign applicants may qualify for employment without a university degree, but the available route depends on the job, qualifications, and immigration rules.
Norway’s skilled worker system can, in qualifying circumstances, recognise completed vocational training or certain special qualifications based on substantial professional experience.
However, this does not mean that every job requiring practical skills qualifies for a skilled worker permit.
For applicants without a degree, useful steps include:
- Completing recognised vocational training.
- Building relevant professional experience.
- Obtaining industry-specific certifications where appropriate.
- Preparing documentation of previous employment and skills.
- Applying for positions that match their actual qualifications.
- Checking whether the job satisfies the applicable residence permit requirements.
Candidates should not assume that an entry-level warehouse, cleaning, restaurant, or general labour job will qualify for long-term work authorisation.
Can Nigerians Apply for Norway Visa Sponsorship Jobs?
Yes. Nigerian citizens can apply for suitable employment opportunities in Norway. However, applicants generally need the appropriate residence permit before beginning work.
A practical application process involves the following steps:
- Identify a genuine vacancy that matches your experience.
- Check whether the employer considers applicants from outside Europe.
- Confirm the qualifications and salary conditions for the job.
- Determine which residence permit category may apply.
- Prepare your CV, educational records, and professional certificates.
- Attend interviews and provide evidence of your experience.
- Obtain a written employment offer if selected.
- Follow the required residence permit application process.
- Wait for the necessary approval before travelling or starting work, as applicable.
Applicants should make sure their educational and professional documents are accurate and can be verified.
Anyone promising a guaranteed Norway work visa simply because an applicant pays a fee should be treated with caution.
Norway Work Permit Requirements for 2027
Requirements vary by residence permit category. For many applicants seeking skilled employment, the following factors are particularly important.
1. A concrete job offer
The applicant generally needs a specific employment offer that meets the conditions of the relevant permit route.
The job title, duties, employer, contract, and other details may be assessed.
2. Relevant qualifications
A skilled worker applicant normally needs qualifying vocational training, higher education, or another accepted basis of specialist competence.
The qualifications must be relevant to the work being offered. The immigration authorities may assess whether the applicant meets the required standard.
3. Salary and working conditions
The salary and working conditions must meet the applicable requirements.
Where no collective agreement or customary salary scale applies, special rules may govern the minimum acceptable pay. The precise requirements depend on the position and regulations in force.
Applicants should not rely on an arbitrary salary figure found in a blog post or recruitment advertisement. Confirm the applicable conditions before accepting the offer.
4. A genuine employer
The employer must be a legitimate business offering real employment.
The applicant should verify the company’s identity and confirm that the offer is genuine.
5. Valid identity documents
Applicants generally need a valid passport and may need educational records, employment documentation, or other supporting papers.
The exact document list depends on the application.
6. Professional authorisation where required
Regulated occupations may require Norwegian authorisation or recognition.
This is especially important for doctors, nurses, and certain other healthcare professionals. Technical and safety-critical positions can also have role-specific certification requirements.
7. Correct residence permit procedure
The application must follow the applicable process for the applicant’s circumstances.
Applicants should confirm whether an employer, applicant, or another authorised party needs to submit particular documents.
8. Additional conditions
Some categories may have additional requirements relating to the nature of the work, the duration of the contract, or the applicant’s circumstances.
Rules can change before 2027, so always confirm current requirements before making a decision.
How to Find Norway Visa Sponsorship Jobs in 2027
A successful search begins with genuine employers and suitable vacancies.
Step 1: Choose your strongest occupation
Identify the skills you can demonstrate with qualifications or practical experience.
For example, a petroleum engineer should target relevant energy companies, while a registered nurse should investigate healthcare employers and authorisation requirements.
Step 2: Search for international recruitment opportunities
Use relevant phrases such as:
- Norway skilled worker jobs for foreigners 2027
- Norway engineering jobs with work permit
- Norway software developer jobs for international applicants
- Norway offshore engineering careers
- Norway healthcare jobs for foreign-trained professionals
- Norway renewable energy jobs
- Norway maritime engineering vacancies
These searches help identify vacancies but do not guarantee that an employer can support your application.
Step 3: Research the employer
Review the employer’s official recruitment information, business identity, job description, and contact details.
Ask whether the company recruits applicants from outside the EU/EEA and whether the position is suitable for the relevant residence permit route.
Step 4: Prepare a professional CV
Your CV should clearly explain your work history, qualifications, skills, and achievements.
Include:
- Your name and professional contact details
- A short professional profile
- Relevant employment history
- Education and training
- Technical skills
- Language proficiency
- Certifications where applicable
- Relevant projects and measurable achievements
Avoid false information or qualifications that cannot be verified.
Step 5: Write a targeted cover letter
Explain why your experience matches the role and what you can contribute to the organisation.
If you are applying from Nigeria, state your current location and be transparent about your need for the appropriate work authorisation.
Step 6: Prepare for the interview
Learn about the company and prepare examples demonstrating your professional abilities.
Technical applicants may need to complete practical assessments. Managers may be asked about project delivery, budgets, leadership, and workplace safety.
Step 7: Review the written offer
Before accepting, confirm the job duties, gross salary, contract duration, working hours, leave, probation arrangements, and any relocation support.
Ask how the employer intends to handle the immigration process.
Do not make expensive travel arrangements until you understand the conditions and have confirmed the required permissions.
How Much Can Foreign Workers Earn in Norway?
The following table summarises broad illustrative gross annual salary ranges. They are not official salary scales or guarantees.
| Occupation | Illustrative annual gross salary |
|---|---|
| Software developer | NOK 600,000–1,000,000+ |
| Cybersecurity specialist | NOK 650,000–1,100,000+ |
| Data scientist | NOK 650,000–1,100,000+ |
| Petroleum engineer | NOK 750,000–1,300,000+ |
| Electrical engineer | NOK 600,000–950,000+ |
| Mechanical engineer | NOK 600,000–950,000+ |
| Registered nurse | NOK 450,000–700,000+ |
| Doctor | NOK 750,000–1,500,000+ |
| Civil engineer | NOK 600,000–950,000+ |
| Renewable energy engineer | NOK 600,000–1,000,000+ |
| Construction project manager | NOK 650,000–1,100,000+ |
| Maritime engineer | NOK 600,000–1,100,000+ |
| Aquaculture specialist | NOK 450,000–850,000+ |
| Industrial maintenance technician | NOK 450,000–750,000+ |
| Accountant | NOK 550,000–950,000+ |
| Research scientist | NOK 500,000–900,000+ |
| Logistics specialist | NOK 450,000–800,000+ |
Actual salaries depend on the employer, industry, qualifications, experience, working hours, and applicable agreements. Some positions may pay below or above the ranges shown.
When comparing an offer, consider taxes, accommodation, transportation, food, insurance, and other living expenses.
Can You Work in Norway Without Speaking Norwegian?
Some international employers use English as their primary working language, especially in technology, energy, research, and multinational business operations.
However, Norwegian is important for many jobs, particularly patient-facing healthcare, education, local customer service, and positions requiring regular communication with the public.
Even where English is sufficient for employment, learning Norwegian can improve everyday life, workplace integration, and long-term career opportunities.
Applicants should check the language requirements of each vacancy rather than assuming that English is enough for every job.
Can Employers Pay for Relocation?
Some Norwegian employers provide relocation support, temporary accommodation, travel assistance, or help with administrative arrangements.
These benefits depend on the employer and the position. They are not guaranteed for every foreign worker.
Before accepting an offer, ask whether relocation assistance is available and what conditions apply.
Request written confirmation of any promised benefit, including who pays the costs and whether reimbursement depends on remaining employed for a certain period.
Be cautious if a recruiter demands large upfront payments for an alleged guaranteed job, accommodation, or work permit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying for jobs that do not match your qualifications
A strong application should demonstrate that you meet the employer’s actual requirements.
Assuming every vacancy supports immigration
An advertised job is not automatically eligible for a skilled worker residence permit. Confirm the route and conditions.
Ignoring professional authorisation
Healthcare professionals and certain technical workers may need approval before practising their occupation.
Believing in guaranteed visa offers
No agent can guarantee that the authorities will approve an application regardless of eligibility.
Paying for fake recruitment
Verify the employer, recruitment process, and any requested fees. Be suspicious of offers sent only through unofficial messaging accounts.
Ignoring salary and living costs
A high gross salary does not reveal your final take-home income or whether the offer will cover your expected expenses.
Starting work without the required permission
Do not begin employment until you have the necessary authorisation and meet the relevant conditions.
Benefits and Challenges of Working in Norway
Potential benefits
- Opportunities in energy, engineering, technology, healthcare, and research
- Competitive wages in many skilled occupations
- Formal employment arrangements and workplace protections
- Potential family residence options for eligible workers
- Possible long-term residence pathways
- Opportunities to gain international professional experience
Potential challenges
- High living costs in many locations
- Competition for suitable vacancies
- Norwegian language requirements in some industries
- Professional recognition procedures for regulated occupations
- Immigration rules that depend on qualifications and job conditions
- Weather and lifestyle adjustments for newcomers
A careful assessment of salary, employment conditions, housing, and immigration eligibility can help applicants decide whether a particular offer is suitable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can foreigners get visa sponsorship jobs in Norway in 2027?
Yes. Eligible foreign applicants may obtain employment and the appropriate residence permit if they meet the applicable requirements. A job offer alone does not guarantee approval.
2. Can Nigerians work in Norway?
Yes. Nigerian citizens can apply for suitable vacancies but generally need the appropriate residence permit to work legally.
3. Which jobs offer the best opportunities?
Specialised roles in engineering, energy, information technology, maritime industries, research, and certain healthcare professions may be worth investigating. Actual opportunities depend on the employer and the applicant’s qualifications.
4. Can I get a Norway job without a degree?
Some applicants may qualify through vocational training or accepted specialist qualifications and experience. However, not every job qualifies for the skilled worker residence permit.
5. Do I need to speak Norwegian?
Not for every position. Some international employers use English, but many healthcare, public-facing, and local operational roles require Norwegian.
6. What salary do I need for a work permit?
There is no single salary threshold applicable to every occupation and residence permit category. Pay and working conditions must meet the relevant rules. Verify the requirements in force when you apply.
7. Can my family join me?
Eligible workers may be able to apply for family immigration for qualifying family members. Eligibility and documentation requirements depend on the circumstances.
8. Can I become a permanent resident?
Some residence permit holders may qualify for permanent residence after meeting the relevant residence period and other conditions. It is not automatic.
9. Can an agent guarantee a Norway work visa?
No legitimate recruiter can guarantee the outcome of an immigration decision. Verify any recruitment service and avoid promises of guaranteed approval in exchange for money.
10. Can I apply while living in Nigeria?
You can search for jobs and apply from Nigeria. The process for obtaining a residence permit depends on your circumstances and the applicable rules. Follow the official application instructions before travelling or beginning employment.
Final Thoughts
Norway may offer valuable career opportunities for foreign professionals in 2027, especially those with relevant qualifications and experience in engineering, energy, information technology, healthcare, maritime industries, and scientific research.
The most effective approach is to identify a suitable occupation, find genuine employers, confirm the correct residence permit route, and prepare a strong application. Applicants should pay particular attention to qualification requirements, salary and working conditions, and professional authorisation where necessary.
For Nigerian job seekers, it is important to distinguish a real employment opportunity from an advertisement that merely uses the words “visa sponsorship.” Verify the employer, understand the contract, and make sure you qualify for the required immigration process before spending money or making travel arrangements.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes. Salary figures are illustrative estimates and are not official pay scales or immigration thresholds. Norwegian immigration rules, salary requirements, and professional regulations may change before or during 2027. Always confirm the current requirements with the relevant Norwegian authorities and professional regulators before making employment or immigration decisions.