I met my girlfriend while working in UK in 2001 (i am a Canadian citizen) and she holds an Irish passport although lived in London for many years. When i had to return to canada after my working hoilday visa was up in 2003 she came with me , on a 6 month tourist visa, we applied for a work permit during this time but was rejected and also restoration of status but was also rejected. She has now been out of status for just over 4 years. We desperatly want to be together and stay together, but don't know what route to take, can we apply for sponorship in canada now? outside? should we get married asap? we can prove we have been living together, we have joint bank account here and i have a good job. Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated.