Travel Document Information
Do I need a visa to travel between Hong Kong and Shenzhen?
Yes. While US and UK citizens can visit Hong Kong for a limited time without a visa, a China visa is required to cross the border into the People's Republic of China (PRC). Short-term visas available at the Shenzhen border crossing are not valid for your voyage. Without a valid China visa obtained in advance, you will be refused entry into PRC from Hong Kong.
Do I need a visa to travel to China?
Yes. You must have a visa in advance to travel to the People's Republic of China (PRC). It is recommended to complete your visa application at least 60 days prior to your departure.
Do I need an entry permit to visit Tibet?
Yes. An entry permit is required for all guests visiting Tibet. Viking will facilitate the acquisition of these permits on your behalf if you book a cruise that includes Tibet in the itinerary, such as Best of China, Wonders of China, Pearls of Japan & China or Gems of China & Japan.
How do I apply for a China visa?
You can apply for a China visa independently or through a visa partner like GenVisa. You will need your signed passport book, two professional passport-style color photos taken within the last 6 months and the China Travel Agency Partner information (TUI China Travel Co., Ltd., License Number: L-BJ-WZ00008). Check the Resources tab on the website for your itinerary for additional detailed information.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the last date of your trip. China only accepts 10-year passports, and the full name on your booking must match the name on your passport exactly to avoid any issues.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the last date of your trip. China only accepts 10-year passports, and the full name on your booking must match the name on your passport exactly to avoid any issues.
What documents do I need to submit to obtain the Tibet entry permit?
You need to email a color copy of your passport photo and signature page to PPV@viking.com no later than 60 days prior to your departure date. Ensure the attachments are clear, legible and in color. Include your first and last name and your booking number in the subject line and body of the email. Your entry permit for Tibet will be provided to you by your Viking Guide upon arrival.
What information do I need to complete the China Arrival Card?
To complete the China Arrival Card, you will need the following information with you when you travel:
- Your full and exact passport number
- Your full and exact visa number
- Your arrival flight number
- Your personal phone number
- Purpose of the trip (mark "tourism")
- Cities intended to visit in China (e.g., "Shanghai and Shenzhen" for cruise-only guests, "Shanghai, Shenzhen, Beijing and Xi’An" for land extension guests)
- Detailed address or hotel name and address (from your final documents)
- Departure date and flight information for your return home
- Reception unit or contact in China (e.g., "Ship reception desk" with the number "0208-4108000")
What is a China Invitation Letter, and do I need one?
A China Invitation Letter is no longer required for guests to travel to China. However, there are exceptions, if the China embassy advises you that a China Invitation Letter is required for you to apply for your China visa, Viking can assist you in obtaining this letter. Contact us at CIL@viking.com to receive an Invitation Letter application that should be completed and returned via email to CIL@viking.com or faxed to 1-818-594-8462. If you are using GenVisa, they will obtain the Invitation Letter for you.
What is the China Arrival Card, and do I need to complete it?
The China Arrival Card is a form that must be completed by all guests arriving in China (PRC) by air. It is essential to have this form filled out upon arrival to ensure a smooth entry process.
Which extensions and excursions require submitting a passport copy?
If you book the shore excursion Treasures of Fujian Overland or the extension Hong Kong & Guilin, you need to submit a color copy of your passport prior to sailing. Please email a color copy of your passport photo and signature page to PPV@viking.com no later than 60 days prior to your departure date. Include your first and last name and your booking number in the subject line and body of the email. Ensure the attachments are clear, legible and in color.
Health and Mobility
Are the voyages in China suitable for guests with mobility assistance needs?
Due to the inherent challenges with ship and airport access, as well as excursion terrain, these voyages are not recommended for guests who require mobility assistance or rely on walkers, wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Additionally, motorized wheelchairs and scooters are not permitted on domestic planes, and lithium batteries must be hand-carried as carry-ons.
What are the medical service standards in China?
The standard and availability of medical services in China may differ significantly from what you are accustomed to. It is important to consider these differences and ensure you have appropriate travel insurance before traveling.
What should I consider regarding physical fitness and accessibility for visiting Tibet?
The terrain and elevation (11,975 ft) in Lhasa, Tibet can affect certain medical conditions and present mobility challenges. High altitude can cause symptoms like headache, nausea, fatigue and shortness of breath. Consult your physician before traveling and consider bringing medication to assist with acclimatization.
Money Matters
Can I use credit cards in China?
You may use credit cards, but they are not universally accepted. Many vendors, including restaurants and shops often will not be able to process them. Options for using credit accounts include Apple Pay and Alipay (not Alipay+). Ensure you download and set up these apps before your voyage.
Should I bring cash to China, and how can I obtain it?
Virtually all transactions in China are now done electronically, but most vendors will also accept crisp, new Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY) bills. In big cities, cash may be obtained through local ATMs (note, there will be a transaction fee), or you may order currency from your financial institution.
What currency should I use in Mongolia if I am traveling there?
The local currency in Mongolia is the Mongolian Tughrik (MNT). US currency is only accepted in Ulaanbaatar, where several banks will exchange currency. International credit cards are also accepted by many vendors.
What is the Comfort Check-In process, and why is it important?
Your booking requires a credit card on file with Viking before embarkation. Complete the Comfort Check-In on the MyVikingJourney portal between 10 and 30 days prior to your departure.
What should I know about using Alipay in China?
Alipay is a digital wallet for foreign travelers in China. Download the Alipay app and the TourCard app within Alipay, create your account and save the QR code for transactions. Be aware of transaction fees, limits, exchange rates and note that Chinese authorities may have access to your data when using Alipay. Additional detailed information will be provided to all booked guests.
Phone and Internet
How can I ensure my mobile phone works in China?
Consult your mobile service provider about using your phone in China. Consider installing a sim card or an e-sim (if your phone is compatible) for your mobile phone, as sim cards are not available for purchase in China.
Why should I install a VPN before traveling to China?
Installing a VPN (Virtual Private Network) on all your devices before departure is recommended because numerous websites, including Google, Facebook and Instagram, are inaccessible with a Chinese internet provider. A VPN offers encrypted connections for internet access and should allow access to these sites, although internet speed may decrease when using a VPN.
Gift Orders
How can I send a Bon Voyage gift to a Viking guest on Yi-Dun?
Send your friends or loved ones off in style with a Bon Voyage gift delivered directly to their stateroom. You can order a gift for delivery on board to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or special occasion. Our Bon Voyage gift packages include delightful surprises, such as champagne, wine, chocolate-dipped strawberries and more.
Simply download, fill out and mail or fax our Gift Order Form (PDF).
You can also use the Silver Spirits Beverage Package Order Form (PDF) to order the beverage package as a gift for a Viking guest.
Simply download, fill out and mail or fax our Gift Order Form (PDF).
You can also use the Silver Spirits Beverage Package Order Form (PDF) to order the beverage package as a gift for a Viking guest.
