Visa for a non-married partner

Hi,

I am relocating to Beijing for a job (which is a 3 year contract) and will have residency and work papers arranged by my company. My partner will move with me but we are not married. Ideally he will find work there shortly after we arrive, however I think initially he will only be eligible for the tourist visa. Is that correct?

What is the longest tourist L that is available or is there another option? He is a highly qualified electrical engineer so I thought maybe the R would be an option but it seems you need a company to invite you to apply for that?

Thanks!