Passport holders of most countries can easily get a VOA except for Afghanistan, Algeria, Bahrain, Cameroon, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Israel, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Sudan, Turkey, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, Yemen, and some Southeast Asian countries.
Foreigners who are in an emergency may also secure a VOA, especially if it’s business-related or a matter of life and death. An invitation letter from an accredited Chinese organization will be required.