Trump says he will sign an executive order to temporarily suspend immigration into America

US President Donald Trump says he will sign an executive order to temporarily suspend immigration into America.

In a tweet on Tuesday, Trump said he would be taking the measure to protect the jobs of US citizens as the country fights to curb the spread of COVID-19.

“In light of the attack from the Invisible Enemy, as well as the need to protect the jobs of our GREAT American Citizens, I will be signing an Executive Order to temporarily suspend immigration into the United States!,” the US president tweeted.

Before Trump’s latest decision, the US had asked medical professionals around the world who want to work in America to reach out for visa appointments.

“We encourage medical professionals seeking to work in the United States on a work or exchange visitor, particularly those working to treat or mitigate the effects of COVID-19, to reach out to the nearest embassy or consulate to request a visa appointment,” a statement by the US department of state in March read.

“For those foreign medical professionals already in the United States: J-1 Alien Physicians (medical residents) may consult with their program sponsor, ECFMG, to extend their programs in the United States.