Miss International Queen-USA 2026
The Search for Our Next Queen Begins!
Applications for Miss International Queen USA™ 2026 are officially open from July 1st to July 31st, 2025.
Ready to step into the spotlight?
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Visit the Apply Now page to submit your application for MIQ-USA 2026
Want VIP access to tickets for Preliminary and Final Nights (March 26th & 27th) at Harrah’s Resort, Atlantic City?
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Join the CROWN CALL list today and be the first to know when tickets go on sale and get a discount code!
It's Our Time To Shine
Empowering Beauty, Uniting Dreams
Miss International Queen – USA™ is the first official preliminary to the Miss International Queen™ pageant to be held in the United States. The MIQ-USA™ pageant is brought to you by the USA-based non-profit, Be the Transformational Change (BTTC) Fund.
Miss International Queen - USA stands as the premier platform for celebrating the beauty, strength, and diversity of transgender women across the nation. We empower our participants to embody their truth with confidence, offering not just a crown but a community and a cause. By spotlighting talent, resilience, and stories of transformation, we aim to inspire acceptance and change, both within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Our mission transcends the conventional pageant – it's a movement towards a more inclusive and understanding world, where every queen finds her stage.
The mission of the pageant aims to elevate LGBTQIA+ and Transgender awareness and equality in both society and the workforce. All monetary profits of the pageant will go towards programs to drive change for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Midori Mone't
Our Reigning Queen
Midori Monét is the reigning Miss International Queen USA, a Seattle-based entertainer, designer, and community leader with over six years of experience captivating audiences across the Pacific Northwest. A trailblazer in pageantry, she made history as one of the first Black trans women to compete in the Miss Universe organization and the first trans woman of color to place in the top 6 of Miss Washington USA. As the founding mother of the Kiki House of Moschino, Midori uplifts LGBTQ+ and ballroom communities by creating vibrant, affirming spaces for at-risk Black and Brown youth. Through her artistry, leadership, and advocacy, Midori Monét continues to inspire others to live boldly, authentically, and unapologetically.
Follow Midori on her socials
Our Sisterhood
It's important to remember that even though the Miss International Queen USA preliminary is a more recent development within the Miss International Queen family, dedicated queens have been representing the USA with pride right from the start. These remarkable women of trans experience often embarked on their journeys without the kind of support system that MIQ-USA now provides. We want to acknowledge their pioneering spirit and affirm that they will always hold a special place in our sisterhood.
Protect The Dolls
Mirror, Mirror
Click, Click, Clack
Watch MIQ-USA In Action
Relive the moments from our pageants and behind the scenes fun. Click play and discover what makes MIQ-USA unlike anything else in the nation
Be Sure to Follow Us!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Who is eligible to compete in Miss International Queen USA?To be eligible, contestants must be: - A woman of trans experience, that identifies as female - Between the ages of 18-36 (must not be over 36 at the time of the final night of the MIQ-USA pageant) -A U.S. Citizen with a valid US Passport or the ability to get a US Passport.
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What are the age requirements to apply?You must be between the ages of 18 and 36 years old. You must be 18 or the age of majority in the state where you live at the time of application, or no older than 36 years old at the date of crowning for the MIQ-USA pageant.
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Do I need to be post-operative or on hormones to qualify?No. Gender-affirming surgeries and hormones are not required. We celebrate all transgender women, regardless of their stage in their personal or medical transition.
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Is there a fee to apply?There is no fee to submit your application. However, if selected as a contestant, there will be a contestant fee of $250 which helps cover production, registration, and promotional materials. Details will be provided upon acceptance.
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What documents will I need to apply?You’ll need to submit: - A clear photo ID (passport or state-issued ID) - A recent headshot & body shot - A short bio - Social Media links, runway footage, introductions videos.
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What qualities are you looking for in a contestant?We are seeking women who embody confidence, authenticity, grace, and advocacy. Passion for community, stage presence, and a willingness to represent the transgender community with pride are key qualities we value.
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Do I need to have previous pageant experience?Not at all! First-time contestants are warmly welcomed. Whether you're new to pageantry or a seasoned queen, we provide support and resources to help you shine.
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What happens after I submit my application?The Contestant Experience Team will review your Application, and if found suitable we will reach out to schedule a virtual interview with you, to be scheduled sometime in August.
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What happens if I’m selected?If accepted, you will receive a confirmation email and a contestant packet that includes: - Deadlines and event dates - Payment and paperwork instructions - Branding materials and promotional guidelines - Wardrobe requirements and optional talent preparation
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Can I compete if I’ve had cosmetic surgery or enhancements?Yes. Cosmetic enhancements are allowed and not required. All contestants are judged on their overall performance, personality, and stage presence.
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What kind of wardrobe will I need to prepare?You will need outfits for categories such as evening gown, national costume , and interview. Full wardrobe guidelines will be provided upon acceptance.
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Can I have someone assist me with hair, makeup, or wardrobe?Yes. You may bring a coach or stylist; however, backstage access will be limited to authorized personnel only. Details will be provided closer to the event.
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How do I apply?Simply fill out the official application form on our website or through the link provided on our social media. Be sure to read all eligibility criteria and submit your materials before the stated deadline.
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What happens now that I’ve submitted my application?Your application is being reviewed by our team. Once processed, & approved, you’ll receive an email about scheduling a virtual interview with the Assistant Director of Contestant Experience. Once the interviews are completed, and if selected, a confirmation email outlining the next steps, including official acceptance, required forms, and deadlines if you pass the virtual interview.
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How will I know if I’ve been accepted as a contestant?Official acceptance emails are typically sent within 7–14 business days after your application is submitted & your interview is completed. If we need further information, we will reach out directly.
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What should I prepare after submitting my application?Please begin gathering the following materials (if not already submitted): - A clear copy of your government-issued ID - A professional headshot - A short contestant bio (150–250 words) - Proof of fee payment - Optional sponsor ad materials (if participating)
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Is there a contestant fee, and how do I pay it?Yes, there is a required contestant fee of $250; payment methods (Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, etc.) will be outlined in your confirmation email. Please keep your payment receipt for your records.
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Can I update or edit my application information?Minor changes (such as headshots, contact info, or updated bios) can be made by contacting the pageant office directly. Please note that all updates must be submitted before the final materials deadline. We highly suggest completing the Application in one seating.
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When will I receive the official pageant schedule?You will receive a detailed event itinerary at least 4–6 weeks before the pageant date, including orientation times, rehearsals, wardrobe call times, and competition rounds.
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What should I bring to orientation or the first official meeting?Please bring: - A valid ID - Any outstanding paperwork - Confirmation of fee payment - A great attitude and readiness to introduce yourself! Some orientations may also include official photography or media interviews.
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Am I allowed to have assistance during the competition?You may have a coach, sponsor, or assistant help you prepare. However, backstage access is limited to contestants and authorized personnel only. Please respect these guidelines to ensure a professional and fair environment for all.
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What if I need to withdraw from the competition?If you must withdraw, please notify the Assistant Director of Contestant Experience immediately. Please note that all fees are non-refundable, as stated in your application agreement.
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Who do I contact if I have additional questions?For any questions or concerns, please reach out to the Miss International Queen USA Team using the contact information provided in your confirmation email. We are here to support and guide you throughout your journey. Email will be a huge form of communication, so please ensure to check it frequently.
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Can I announce that I’ve been accepted to compete?No. All contestants must wait until Miss International Queen USA makes the official public announcement on their social media platforms. Please do not share or post anything publicly until you are officially introduced, you will be under a media embargo; however, that doesn't mean you can't have face-to-face conversations about sponsorship, etc.
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Will hotel lodging and meals be provided?Yes. MIQ USA will provide hotel lodging and group meals for all official contestants during the event. Contestants are welcome to purchase additional food or snacks at their own expense.
