FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - RECRUITING

To help you better understand the recruitment process and working environment at Viking® through GCS Vietnam, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions from candidates. If you’re interested in pursuing an international career opportunity, take a few minutes to read through this section and prepare yourself for a successful application!

To help you better understand the recruitment process and working environment at Viking® through GCS Vietnam, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions from candidates. If you’re interested in pursuing an international career opportunity, take a few minutes to read through this section and prepare yourself for a successful application!

1. Can all candidates apply to Viking through GCS Vietnam?

Unfortunately, GCS Vietnam can only process applications for candidates who are Vietnamese citizens or foreigners with permanent residency permits.

Further to our reference, you can contact other recruiting agencies in your hometown: https://www.vikingcareers.com/.../en/recruiting-partners-new. Another way is applying directly on Viking website: https://www.vikingcareers.com/global/en/crew-opportunities.

2. How does Viking's model work?

All staff work entirely on Viking luxury cruise ships, each with its own itinerary through different countries, primarily foreign territories. If a candidate is selected and signs a contract with Viking, they will have an onboarding schedule. The company will fly them overseas, stay in that country for one day, then embark at the local port. Similarly, at the end of the contract, the candidate will return to Vietnam.

3. I see there are ocean and river cruise ships, right? It seems like the ships only sail in Europe?

Currently, Viking is only hiring for ocean cruise ships for Vietnamese staff. The ships have different routes, not just in Europe but also to other regions such as the U.S., Australia, Hong Kong, Japan and even Vietnam. You can find more information on Viking's routes on their website: https://www.vikingcruises.com.au/.../search.../index-a.html.

4. How soon can I expect to hear from Viking once I submit an application?

Viking receives numerous applications for open positions. Consequently, our hiring managers and recruiters must have enough time to thoroughly review all applications. Whether your background/experience aligns or not align with the position requirements, you will still be informed about the results in 3-5 working days.

5. Can I apply for multiple roles in the company?

Please review the job descriptions and listings carefully to find the position that best fits your skills and career aspirations. We recommend applying for only one role, but if you feel you could be a fit for more than one, feel free to apply for the others from different departments as well.

6. Does Viking only hire candidates with previous experience in the cruise industry or hospitality?

For some Entry Level and Middle Level positions, previous experience in travel is not required. Please review the job description before applying to understand what Viking looks for in candidates for specific roles or teams.

7. Are there any opportunities for growth and advancement within the company?

Yes, the company is deeply committed to continuous learning and professional development for all employees. New hires receive comprehensive training, including sessions on company culture, service standards, and role-specific skills, followed by hands-on learning and personalized coaching.

Viking also emphasizes ongoing education to ensure employees stay up to date with its services and standards. Employees have access to development programs and certification opportunities in core business areas such as leadership, communication, and mentoring. In addition, Viking encourages regular dialogue with leadership to create personalized career paths and provides structured feedback and performance evaluations to support long-term growth. Also, crew members have chances to transfer to River or other Viking cruises.

8. How long is each contract? I'm concerned about being away for a long time and not being able to contact my family.

Each contract lasts 6 months. However, during your time onboard, you won’t be constantly at sea. The cruise ships frequently dock in different countries. If an emergency arises with your family during that time, and you can provide evidence, you may request to return home. Additionally, Viking provides free Wi-Fi for crew members, so you can stay in touch with your family without needing to pay for expensive data (which is often costly on other cruise ships).

9. Can I extend my contract whenever I want?

You don’t need to actively request an extension. When your current contract ends, Viking will offer you a new 6-month contract. Typically, there is a 1-2 month break between contracts for document preparation if needed. After 2-3 months of working onboard, you will automatically receive an offer for the next contract. If you want to continue, you can confirm with Viking. If you decide not to continue, you will need to re-apply if you want to return, unless you have valid proof of illness/surgery, etc.

10. Do I need to have a specific English profiency certificate?

Viking requires good conversational English to be able to communicate clearly with customers, colleagues, and present documents. If you don’t have a certificate, the company will assess your English level during the interview. Having a certificate will support your application but is not mandatory.

11. What are the benefits for crew members?

 Please refer to the article: GCS'S PARTNER: VIKING CRUISES - Part 4: Crew Member's Benefits.

12. What are the costs during the application process?

Costs only arise once you pass the interview with the company. For now, while you are only applying, there are no costs.

- After passing the interview, you will need to take a STCW course and get a seaman’s book.

- When you receive your official contract, you will need to apply for a visa and undergo a medical check-up. These two costs must be paid upfront, but keep the receipts as the company will reimburse you once you board the ship.

- Viking will cover the costs for your flight tickets and hotel accommodation for a one-night stay before boarding the ship. You don’t need to pay for these.

13. After 6 months, employees will have 2 months on land. Will they be paid during this period?

The 2 months off won’t be included in your contract, so it will not be paid. However, as I mentioned, the company will save up the equivalent of 5 days of paid leave for each month and pay it out at the end of your contract, so you have some savings to use during your 2-month break. Additionally, if you want to shorten this 2-month break, you can request that Viking arranges a new contract earlier. However, this will depend on the paperwork required for the next contract (as some visas take a month to process), so it might not be possible to start immediately if the paperwork isn't ready.

14. Will I be working 24/7?

The maximum working hours per day are 11 hours, split into three shifts: morning, afternoon, and evening. You’ll work 3-4 hours, then have a 1-2 hour break to rest and eat before continuing. Overtime is available but rare.

15. If I encounter sensitive issues like harassment on board, how will the company protect me?

Of course, the company ensures the protection of all employees. Viking takes the safety of its crew members very seriously. You just have to report the problem directly to your leader or HRM, and Viking will take action, whether it involves another crew member or a passenger.

16. I recently saw Viking's website and heard that Viking doesn't accept tattoos. Is that true?

Viking does accept tattoos, but they must be "invisible tattoos" – tattoos that are not visible or can be covered by long-sleeve uniforms. So, if you have a tattoo that’s in a hidden location or can be covered, it’s acceptable. Tattoos concealed with make-up, skin-colored sleeves or any covering other than the company uniform will still be considered visible for the purposes of Viking appearance standards.

17. How many rounds of interviews are there?

Viking’s recruitment process for crew members includes two main stages. First, GCS screens your application to ensure you meet the English, experience, and attitude requirements. If you don’t meet the criteria, you will be rejected or offered rebench to a lower position. If you pass, GCS will submit your application to Viking, and Viking representative will conduct the interview directly. If you are accepted, both parties will sign the contract and prepare for your onboarding procedures.

We hope this FAQ has helped clarify your questions about career opportunities with Viking Cruises through GCS Vietnam. If you have any further inquiries or need additional support during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us via our official fanpage or recruitment email.

An exciting journey awaits - and we look forward to being a part of your path toward an international career!