HCX VM Unselectable for Migration, Error: 'Cannot Migrate workload, reason: {0}'

Products

• VMware HCX

Issue/Introduction

When attempting to create a new Mobility Group for an HCX Migration activity, a Virtual Machine (VM) is listed under "Unselectable workloads." A warning sign indicates: "Cannot migrate Workload, reason: {0}

Environment

VMware HCX

Cause

VM is being protected through HCX-DR.
The behavior is expected and not an error, because HCX-DR protection is designed for ongoing replication to ensure business continuity and quick recovery in case of a disaster. The VM's state and replication metadata are continuously managed by the DR service, which inherently prevents it from being simultaneously listed for other activities like vMotion or Bulk Migration within a Mobility Group.

Resolution

If you need to migrate this VM using a Mobility Group or another HCX migration method, it is suggested to remove the existing HCX-DR protection for that VM.

Workaround:

• Understand the implication: Be aware that disabling HCX-DR protection will remove its replication and recovery capabilities for the VM.
• Locate the VM in HCX-DR: Navigate to the HCX Disaster Recovery section where the VM is protected.
• Remove/Unprotect the VM
• Once DR protection is successfully removed, the VM should become available for selection in Mobility Groups or other HCX migration activities.