Upvote:6
Having a quick look at the types of Chinese visas, you might qualify for an F visa:
In my experience, you fill out a Chinese visa application, submit it to the consulate, and based on what you state as the purpose of your trip, you will be allocated a visa type and duration that the consulate feels is appropriate. The first time, you will probably only get a single entry visa. After a couple of trips, you may be issued a multiple entry visa. You probably will not be issued a multiple entry visa for your first visa.
It looks like after you are married you would qualify for a Q2 Family Visit Visa (探亲签证), which might be easier to get, less costly, or valid for a longer period.