More answers for you

Did your BF has Tax return every year in US? When you apply for Green Card, he needs provider three years of Tax return and his income must meet the requirement. If not, you need co-sponsor... I say this -- Based on you married him and he applys GC for you, married in China or US.

And, work permit you can get when you submit I-130 and I-485 that same day. I did it in 2004.

I got my GC by my hu*****and. I started after three months merriage. I have been in US since 1997.

Hope this help you a little.