Update on Trump's Plan to Temporarily Suspend Immigration into the U.S.

As reported earlier today, President Trump announced late last night via Twitter of his plan to issue an Executive Order that will suspend immigration into the United States with the stated objective of protecting American jobs that are at risk due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although details of the Executive Order are still murky, the President provided some insights on what the immigration suspension will likely entail during today’s White House Press Briefing:

• The temporary suspension will be in effect for 60 days and may be extended further based on economic conditions.

• The temporary suspension will only apply to foreign nationals who are seeking permanent residency (green cards). It is unknown at this time whether this provision will apply to persons who are already in the United States and are filing adjustment of status applications.

• Future orders aimed at curtailing temporary nonimmigrant categories (e.g. H-1Bs) are possible.

The President stated that he will be signing the Executive Order within the coming days. We will continue to monitor the situation and will provide an update and analysis when the formal Executive Order is released.