PR living in US (H1B) – Issues with US Plates and Residency Scrutiny at Border

[robincanada2014]

Hi everyone,
I’m a Canadian PR currently working in the US on an H1B visa. I maintain rentals in both countries and commute across the border frequently. I’m running into two specific issues at the border and would love some insight:

1. US Plates: I’m getting a hard time from CBSA officers(Canadian Side) about my US-plated car. Has anyone in a similar "dual-residency" situation been able to successfully keep their US plates long-term while entering Canada frequently? Or did you eventually have to import the vehicle?
2. Residency Scrutiny: Every time I mention I "live" in the US, I get grilled about my residency obligations (730 days in 5 years). For those working in the US on H1B/TN visas, how do you frame your living situation to officers to minimize friction while still being honest about your US employment?

I am keeping track of my days to ensure I meet the RO, but the constant scrutiny is making the commute stressful. Any tips on documentation or "magic words" to smooth out the process?
Thanks in advance!

 

[canuck78]

Hi everyone,
I’m a Canadian PR currently working in the US on an H1B visa. I maintain rentals in both countries and commute across the border frequently. I’m running into two specific issues at the border and would love some insight:

1. US Plates: I’m getting a hard time from CBSA officers(Canadian Side) about my US-plated car. Has anyone in a similar "dual-residency" situation been able to successfully keep their US plates long-term while entering Canada frequently? Or did you eventually have to import the vehicle?
2. Residency Scrutiny: Every time I mention I "live" in the US, I get grilled about my residency obligations (730 days in 5 years). For those working in the US on H1B/TN visas, how do you frame your living situation to officers to minimize friction while still being honest about your US employment?

I am keeping track of my days to ensure I meet the RO, but the constant scrutiny is making the commute stressful. Any tips on documentation or "magic words" to smooth out the process?
Thanks in advance!

Only one can be your primary residence.