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The Global Insight

Do companies have the right to transfer employees?

Author

John Hall

Updated on March 30, 2026

The right to transfer an employee is an implied right of the employer. No express term in the contract is necessary. However, where the transfer is from one legal entity to another, an employee has a constitutional right to be employed by an employer of his choice.

Can my employer force me to do a different job?

Yes, in some cases. Generally, unless an employment contract or a collective bargaining agreement states otherwise, an employer may change an employee’s job duties, schedule or work location without the employee’s consent.

Can my employer force me to change my shift?

The first point to make is that an employer cannot force someone to change shift patterns. The member of staff may win in the short-term; but in the medium to long-term, the employer may prove difficult over other issues such as granting time off.

Can you be fired for refusing a transfer?

When a person is an “at will employee” and refuses to transfer, it may result in a termination, unless the employer stated in a written contract that the employee’s position would not require a relocation. The employer will likely characterize it as an at-will quit or job abandonment depending on the circumstances.

How do you politely decline a job transfer?

First and foremost, thank the company for taking interest in you and offering you the opportunity to work for them. Tell the hiring manager that you’re grateful for the time spent working with you during the interview process, but that you’ve chosen to turn down the offer because you’re uncomfortable with relocating.

What is a section 197 transfer?

Section 197 of the Labour Relations Act deals with the transfer of a business and the rights of employees affected by such a transaction. The transfer does not interrupt an employee’s continuity of employment and an employee’s contract of employment continues with the new employer as if with the old employer.

Do I have to accept redeployment?

Redeployment opportunities are an alternative to termination. If an employee elects not to accept a redeployment opportunity then the employee would have their employment terminated due to redundancy and would therefore be entitled to redundancy pay.

What should I do when seeking a job transfer?

When seeking a job transfer, it can help to approach your employer with strong reasons for your request. While you may already know how your job transfer request will benefit you, it is important to be able to express why your transfer is the right decision for the company as well.

What do you mean by transfer of employees?

Transfer is a type of mobility of employees which involves a change in the job, accompanied by a change in the place of the job, without a change in responsibilities or remuneration.

Are there any problems with an employee transfer?

There are some problems associated with the transfers such as employee may not like or fit the new location, or it may decrease productivity, or it may reduce their interest in the job, which leads to employee dissatisfaction.

Can You Tell your supervisor about a transfer?

Considerable risk of backlash can accompany not telling your supervisor, and it will be hard to turn back once you have embarked on that course of action. Therefore, carefully weigh your options prior to applying for a transfer.