Bank Account - Credit Card

I took my Japanese client president today to the bank to open an account.  With all necessary paper work, I could  help him to open the account without any problem.

Then, I asked how long it takes to get him a credit card.  The answer is One year because of a credit history.
Give me a break...  I remember 10 years ago when I came here and I had this problem for myself.

It does not seem to be right for this guideline for the credit card society here in the USA.