Name checks and minimal value?

[Cybex]

Name checks as cash cow for USCIS

On the other hand, have you ever looked at it from the USCIS point of view? ... What would USCIS have to gain by making people wait months and months?

Mucho Dinero $$$!
Take a look at USCIS's revenue chart http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/CISOmbudsman_AnnualReport_2006_II-F-Name_Checks.pdf. I-485 applicants sitting on name check for 3-5 years apply for EADs and APs in big numbers, and regularly. ~21% extra revenue - not bad for doing nothing, hah? Compare with 12% they make on either 485s/N-400, where work is required and responsibility does exist.

It all might start as security hardening; but doesn't financial aspect seem to play far more superior role now?

Would you, guys, agree?

 

[Jackolantern]

If that is the case that's sad. On the other hand, have you ever looked at it from the USCIS point of view? Do you think they want to be badgered day in and day out by people inquiring about their name checks?

When they are badgered for not completing cases, they can still point to the FBI as an excuse. Without FBI name check, they would still get badgered, but with nobody else to point a finger at.