A BIN Number is required to issue a credit or debit card. I am not sure on a pre-paid card but assume so if it is to be processed by VISA or Mastercard. A Bin is required for each type card a bank issues. It is used to identify a particular type of card or product by the processor. It is a unique number within the usual 16 didgit number on any card and is usually the first 6 digits of the number. They have to apply to either VISA or Mastercard to get this number if they are going to process through either one of them or both. The length of time to get one varies upon the applicant and VISA or Mastercard. I hope this helps