Ireland has deported 42 South Africans over illegal residency, spending an estimated €735,000 on the operation.

Authorities confirmed the deportations were part of a wider crackdown on illegal migration, aimed at tightening residency rules and reinforcing border controls. The move highlights South Africa’s two‑way migration dilemma — while many citizens seek opportunities abroad, the country itself struggles with undocumented migrants entering its borders.

Officials in Dublin said the deportations were carried out in line with immigration law, stressing that the government remains committed to addressing irregular migration across Europe.