Partner under work visa

Hello,

My and my partner are currently in Shanghai. I was hired by a company and I am in the process of obtaining the work Z type. As for my partner, he is still under tourist L type and I would like to know if he can change his status to S-type here in Shanghai. We are not married; yet I have read people whose request has been accepted as unmarried partners. I just do not know if I can do the process here or if he has to go back home to get it approved.

Thanks.