From Chancenkarte to EU Blue Card in 9 Days: How Samrat Made His German Dream a Reality

When Samrat Pathak packed his bags for Germany in October 2024, it wasn’t his first time setting foot in the country.

He had studied here back in 2018, completed his master’s degree in engineering, and then, like many international graduates, returned home to Nepal when his post-study visa expired.

But something about Germany stayed with him.
“I always knew I’d come back,” he says. “The question was how.”

That answer came in the form of the Chancenkarte, Germany’s new opportunity card that allows qualified professionals from outside the EU to come and search for a job for up to a year. Samrat believed that this was a second chance at the career path he had always dreamed of pursuing.

Searching with Purpose

Landing in Germany was one thing; finding a job was another.
Samrat began his search with optimism but quickly realized how competitive the market could be.

“I sent around 100 applications,” he recalls with a laugh. “I got some interviews, some rejections, and plenty of silence. But I kept pushing.”

What set him apart was focus. He knew his strength lay in engineering and renewable energy, and that’s exactly where he concentrated his efforts.

“If you’re on the Chancenkarte, you can’t afford to be all over the place,” he advises. “Know your niche, apply strategically, and make sure your qualifications match the job requirements.”

This persistence paid off.

In July 2025, Samrat landed a position as Application Engineer, C&I Turnkey Solutions at Canadian Solar EMEA GmbH, one of the leading global players in clean energy.

“That was the moment I felt it,” he says. “My real beginning in Germany.”

The 9-Day Leap to an EU Blue Card

For many Chancenkarte holders, the next big milestone after getting a job is transitioning to a long-term residence permit, often, the EU Blue Card.

Samrat’s transition took only nine days, a remarkably short timeframe that even surprised him.
“The process was incredibly smooth,” he says. “The key is preparation. I already had all my documents in order, the job offer, my degree certificates, proof of address, and employment terms.”

Transparency was another factor.

 “I told my employer from the start that I was on a Chancenkarte. They appreciated the honesty and supported me when it was time to apply for the Blue Card.”

He remembers calling the Ausländerbehörde (foreigners’ office) to explain that his Blue Card approval was the only thing standing between him and starting his new job. “They understood and fast-tracked my appointment. I got the card in under three days,” he recalls, still amazed.

Lessons for Chancenkarte Holders

Samrat’s experience offers a wealth of advice for anyone planning to come to Germany or already here on the Chancenkarte visa:

1. Come with clarity.

Know your field and align your skills with Germany’s current labor needs.
“Not every industry is short on workers,” he cautions. “In renewable energy, there’s real demand and that’s where I focused.”

2. Learn German.

Samrat had B2-level German proficiency when he applied.
While his current role is in an English-speaking environment, German made a huge difference in the job search.

“Most of my interviews were fully in German. It gave me confidence and helped me stand out.”

3. Stay organized.

Gather your documents early academic certificates, translations, experience letters, and proof of finances.

“It saves you weeks later when things start moving quickly,” he says.

4. Be patient, not passive.

“You’ll face rejection,” he admits. “You’ll hear ‘no’ a lot. But keep applying. Every interview teaches you something new and gets you closer.”

5. Communicate with employers clearly.

Be open about being on the Chancenkarte. Many companies are aware of the visa and willing to support your transition if you show initiative.You should also take note that some companies are still not aware of the visa, you should never feel surprised when they want to reject you. Instead, take time to explain how the visa works.

Cutting Through the Noise

Online discussions about the Chancenkarte are often polarized. Some praise it; others dismiss it as ineffective.
Samrat has seen both sides and disagrees with the critics.

“There’s a lot of misinformation,” he says. “People think the Chancenkarte doesn’t work. But it does if you stay focused and realistic. It’s not a magic key; it’s a framework of opportunity. What you do with it is up to you.”

He also points out that many who struggle simply don’t prepare enough, either with documentation, job strategy, or language.
“The system rewards effort,” he adds. “Germany wants skilled workers but you have to show them you’re ready.”

A Message to Dreamers

Samrat’s story is all about strategy, patience, and belief in the process.

His journey from Nepal to Germany, and from Chancenkarte to EU Blue Card in just nine days proves that the Chancenkarte is more than a policy. It’s a bridge.

A bridge back to opportunity, to purpose, and to a life rebuilt in one of Europe’s most advanced economies.

“For me,” he says with a quiet smile, “the Chancenkarte wasn’t just a visa. It was a bridge back to the career I always wanted and to the country that still felt like home.”

Key Takeaways for Future Applicants

• Understand the Chancenkarte criteria before applying. Use the official points system to know your eligibility.
•  Focus your job search on shortage occupations and industries aligned with your skills.
•  Build your German language skills to at least B1 or B2 for better job prospects.
•  Network locally through LinkedIn, meetups, and professional events in your field.

Stay resilient. Success often comes after many “no’s.”

This article was written by our Senior Content Writer Henry Odhiambo.