US President Donald Trump signs executive order to tighten H-1B visa programme

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to tighten the rules for technology companies seeking to bring highly skilled foreign workers to the United States. The order signed by Mr Trump yesterday targets the H-1B visa programme. 

The White House said the programme undercuts American workers by bringing in large numbers of cheaper foreign workers, which drives down US wages.



The order directs US agencies to propose rules to prevent immigration fraud and abuse in the programme. Agencies have also been asked to suggest changes so that the H-1B visas are granted to the most-skilled or highest-paid applicants.

Mr Trump said the order sends a powerful signal to the world that the United States will defend its workers, protect their jobs and put America first.