North America 2026 Season WCQ Regional Qualifier FAQ
Burst Protocol (BPRO) Season
In Effect as of January 15, 2026
BASIC INFORMATION
- What are Regional Qualifiers?
- Where and when are the Regional Qualifiers?
- What is the attendance capacity for the Regional Qualifier?
- How do I enter a Regional Qualifier?
- What are the prizes for Regional Qualifiers?
- How many Duelists will earn invites at a Regional Qualifier?
- Will Regional Qualifiers award World Qualifying Points?
- What is the format for Regional Qualifier tournaments?
- Can I play in more than one Regional Qualifier?
- What is Yu-Gi-Oh! NEURON and how can it help me with obtaining or registering a CARD GAME ID?
- What is Genesys?
- Will I need to complete and turn in a Deck List?
- What cards are legal for play?
- Can I use OCG cards (cards printed for use in Japan and other Asian territories) in my Deck? Can I use foreign language cards in my Deck?
- I want to judge at a Regional Qualifier, instead of competing as a Duelist – how can I apply?
- I would like to provide feedback to KDE-US concerning the Regional I attended, who should I contact?
PREPARING FOR THE TOURNAMENT – IN-PERSON REGIONAL QUALIFIERS
- What will I need to bring to a Regional Qualifier tournament?
- Are there any items I am not allowed to bring to the tournament?
- What if I lost an item at a Regional Qualifier tournament?
- What will I need to bring to register for the tournament?
- Can I pre-register for the Regional Qualifier?
- If I’ve never been to a Regional Qualifier tournament, what should I expect?
- I want to vend at a Regional Qualifier. Whom should I contact?
- Whom should I contact for more information about a specific Remote Duel Regional Qualifier?
PREPARING FOR THE TOURNAMENT – REMOTE DUEL REGIONAL QUALIFIERS
- What is Remote Duel?
- What will I need to have to participate in a Remote Duel Regional Qualifier tournament?
- Are there any items I am not allowed to have visible in my Dueling setup during the tournament?
- What will I need to have to register for the tournament?
- Can I pre-register for the Regional Qualifier?
- If I’ve never been to a Regional Qualifier tournament, what should I expect?
- What Tournament Policy information do I need to know for a Remote Duel Event?
- I may need assistance to participate at the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier due to a disability or recent injury, what should I do?
- I want to judge at a Remote Duel Regional Qualifier, instead of competing as a Duelist – how can I apply?
- Whom should I contact for more information about a specific Remote Duel Regional Qualifier?
AT THE TOURNAMENT – IN-PERSON REGIONAL QUALIFIERS
- Will there be Public Events?
- What is a Dragon Duel?
- What are the prizes for the Dragon Duel?
- Will there be a Dragon Duel at the Regional Qualifier?
- What happens if not enough Dragon Duel eligible Duelists register for the Dragon Duel?
- Will the Regional Qualifier have any perks if I am a current or former UDS Invitational Champion?
- How long will the Regional Qualifier tournament last?
- What happens if I am not done with my Match after 50 minutes?
- Will there be vendors on site so I can buy single cards and supplies?
- Can I buy and sell cards from other participants at the event?
- I would like to provide feedback to KDE-US concerning the Regional I attended, who should I contact?
DURING THE TOURNAMENT – REMOTE DUEL REGIONAL QUALIFIERS
- Am I allowed to stream or record any of my Matches?
- Will there be Public Events?
- I’m under 13. Am I able to participate in a Remote Duel tournament?
- What is a Dragon Duel?
- What are the prizes for the Dragon Duel?
- Will there be a Dragon Duel at the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier?
- What happens if not enough Dragon Duel-eligible Duelists register for the Dragon Duel?
- Will the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier have any perks if I am a current or former UDS Invitational Champion?
- How long will the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier tournament last?
- What happens if I am not done with my Match after 55 minutes?
- Can I buy and sell cards from other participants during the event?
QUALIFICATION FOR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER TOURNAMENTS
- Do I have to qualify in my own country?
- If I qualified in a Dragon Duel tournament (for Duelists born 2012 or later) can I play in the all ages World Championship Qualifier (WCQ)?
- Will Regional Qualifier invites “pass down” if someone who has already earned an invite earns another one?
- How and when will I receive my invite?
- Is travel or hotel included with my invite?
*The 2026 Regional Qualifier season began July 2025 and extends until the Summer of 2026.
BASIC INFORMATION
Q: What are Regional Qualifiers?
Regional Qualifiers, including Remote Duel Regional Qualifiers, are Tier 2 tournaments in which Duelists compete to earn invites to their WCQs, along with exclusive prizes. Participants in Regional Qualifiers are held to the highest standards of sportsmanship and are expected to be fully prepared for the event.
Q: Where and when are the Regional Qualifiers?
A list of dates and locations for currently scheduled Regional Qualifier events can be found online at https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/regional-locations/. New dates will be added to the calendar approximately every 3 months.
Please make sure to check with the Tournament Organizer about the scheduled start times for Registration and the start of Round 1.
Q: What is the attendance capacity for the Regional Qualifier?
Both in-person and Remote Duel Regional Qualifiers have a set capacity listed on the Regional Locator page. Be sure to arrive at the venue for in-person events, or log into the Discord server for Remote Duel events, early and complete any needed steps to ensure you can register for the Regional Qualifier. Duelists may register late (assuming event has not reached capacity) for an event and will begin the event with a Round 1 Match Loss. If you have any additional questions, please contact the Tournament Organizer directly at the email address or phone number that corresponds with the event in the Regional Locator page.
Q: How do I enter a Regional Qualifier?
Duelists will pay $22.50 USD in the United States, and $33.75 CAD in Canada to receive five (5) booster packs of the latest Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME booster set and entry into the Regional Qualifier. Any taxes and fees would be in addition to the cost of entry.
Q: What are the prizes for Regional Qualifiers?
In addition to the five (5) booster packs each Duelist receives upon entering the tournament, prize distribution will be as follows:
- Top 8 Duelists each receive a WCQ Regional Game Mat.
- Top 4 Duelists also receive a Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Card Case.
- At the Tournament Organizer’s discretion, the above prizes may be supplemented with additional Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG product or accessories.
- Invites to the next WCQ, depending upon the total registration of the event.
Q: How many Duelists will earn invites at a Regional Qualifier?
Invites to the next WCQ tournaments are awarded after the final Round of Swiss. Invites are awarded to the first-place finisher and extend down to the specified number of places based on attendance.
| Attendance | Number of Invites Awarded |
| 4 – 49 | 4 Invites |
| 50 – 99 | 8 Invites |
| 100 – 149 | 16 Invites |
| 150 – 199 | 24 Invites |
| 200 – 299 | 32 Invites |
| 300 – 499 | 48 Invites |
| 500 or More | 64 Invites |
If a Duelist who has already received an invitation to their next WCQ earns an additional invitation at a Regional Qualifier, the invite does not pass down. Duelists who already have an invite who earn additional invites are still required to complete an invite form each time they qualify.
Duelists who earn invites will be responsible for completing the WCQ Invite form to be placed on the Invite List. Incomplete information could prevent your invite from being verified by KDE-US, so please ensure that your information is complete, accurate, and legible. Part of the requirement to earn an invite is to complete a legible invite form. Failure to do so may result in an invite not being awarded.
Invites are not mailed out. Duelists who earn an invite will be able to see their name on the WCQ invite list.
A list of Duelists who have earned invites to a WCQ is posted in KCGN. You can access the list by logging into your KCGN account. You can also go here for more information: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/rankings/wcq-invite-lists/.
Q: Will Regional Qualifiers award World Qualifying Points?
World Qualifying Points are a way to earn an invite to the Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME (TCG) World Championship. Duelists who earn WCQ invites at events in North and Latin America throughout the course of the 2025-2026 Organized Play season will also earn “World Qualifying Points” which award additional invites to the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG World Championship through a World Qualifying Points Playoff. Duelists are only eligible to earn World Qualifying Points at events in the same territory as the WCQ the Duelist attends. For example, a Duelist from the United States will not earn World Qualifying Points at a Remote Duel Regional Qualifier in Latin America but would for a Remote Duel Regional Qualifier in the United States or Canada.
World Qualifying Points Playoffs invites will be awarded to a specific number of Duelists in different territories who have earned enough World Qualifying Points in the 2025-2026 Organized Play season to compete in the World Qualifying Points Playoff.
Duelists can earn World Qualifying Points at the following events: Regional Qualifiers, Dragon Duels, OTS Championships, and the Yu-Gi-Oh! Championship Series.
The total number of invites awarded at an event will determine how many World Qualifying Points can be earned. For example, at a Regional Qualifier that awards 32 WCQ invites, the Duelist who comes in 1st place will earn 32 points, the 2nd place Duelist will earn 31 points, and so on, down to the 32nd place Duelist who will earn 1 point.
| Rank* | World Qualifying Points Earned |
| 1st | 32 |
| 2nd | 31 |
| 3rd | 30 |
| 4th | 29 |
*This would continue down to 32nd place, which would earn 1 World Qualifying Point.
To be eligible to earn World Qualifying Points, a Duelist must accurately complete their WCQ Invite Form at the time they earn their WCQ invite. Failure to accurately complete a WCQ Invite Form may result in points not being awarded for that event.
For more information regarding World Qualifying Points, please visit the World Qualifying Points main page at: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/wqp/.
Q: What is the format for Regional Qualifier tournaments?
Regional Qualifier tournaments are Constructed events, which means each Duelist must have his or her own Deck to compete. Decks must be constructed according to the latest Advanced Format guidelines. You can find the most recent Forbidden & Limited List and the date the list went into effect at https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/limited/.
Regional Qualifiers will be run using Swiss Format, which means all Duelists will play a set number of Rounds determined by the number of Duelists enrolled in the tournament. Duelists are not eliminated during the event.
Regional Qualifiers do not cut to a Top 8 Single-Elimination bracket at the conclusion of the appropriate number of Swiss Rounds. Regional Qualifiers will only play Swiss Rounds, with prizes awarded at the end of the final Round of Swiss based on Standings.
Tournament Organizers may choose to play a Top 8 Single-Elimination bracket until the finals to declare a winner if they advertise it before the start of the event. These Rounds are unsanctioned and will not affect invites or any prizing provided by KDE-US. Top 8 Single-Elimination Rounds would be untimed but Slow Play still needs to be enforced.
Swiss Rounds for the 2025-2026 Regional Qualifier Season
| Number of Participants* | Number of Swiss Rounds | Playoff Top Cut |
| 4 – 8 | 3 Rounds of Swiss | None |
| 9 – 16 | 4 Rounds of Swiss | None |
| 17 – 32 | 5 Rounds of Swiss | None |
| 33 – 64 | 6 Rounds of Swiss | None |
| 65 – 128 | 7 Rounds of Swiss | None |
| 129 – 256 | 8 Rounds of Swiss | None |
| 257 – 512 | 9 Rounds of Swiss | None |
| 513 or more | 10 Rounds of Swiss | None |
Q: Can I play in more than one Regional Qualifier?
Duelists who remain in good standing with KDE-US can compete in any number of Regional Qualifiers (Remote Duel or in person), regardless of whether they have already earned an invite or not.
Q: What is Yu-Gi-Oh! NEURON and how can it help me with obtaining or registering a CARD GAME ID?
NEURON is a free tournament support app for the Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME for iOS and Android Smart devices and can be found on the app store. This app is the best way to obtain a CARD GAME ID if you are new to participating in events. You can also register an already existing CARD GAME ID if you already have one.
For those joining our events for the first time, obtaining a CARD GAME ID is as easy as downloading the app. Once downloaded follow the steps below:
- On the bottom menu screen, select Data.
- Once there, your CARD GAME ID will appear at the top of the screen.
This CARD GAME ID will be used when registering for any Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Sanctioned events which include our Tier 1 local events, Tier 2 Regional Qualifiers and OTS Championships, Tier 3 YCS events, and even Tier 4 WCQ Qualifier events.
If you already have a CARD GAME ID and would like to register it on the NEURON app, you can click here for a full guide on how to link your CARD GAME ID to your NEURON App.
If you previously had a COSSY ID, that same number will carry over as your CARD GAME ID.
If you do not remember your 10-digit CARD GAME ID, please reach out to us-opsupport@kde-us.com for help in getting your correct CARD GAME ID into NEURON before the event. Duelists should avoid acquiring new CARD GAME IDs if the previous ID can be found.
NEURON allows for fast and accurate Deck List submission, official card rulings, Life Points tracking, and quick access to the most up-to-date card information. Additional details and features of the NEURON app can be found here:
https://www.konami.com/yugioh/neuron/en/
Q: What is Genesys?
Genesys uses the same rules as standard Duels, with a few simple changes.
Genesys rules are simple:
- No Link Monsters or Pendulum Monsters are allowed. All other cards are allowed. The original field layout is used, with no Extra Monster Zones nor Pendulum Zones.
- The standard Forbidden & Limited Cards list is not used. All those cards can be used, except Link Monsters and Pendulum Monsters. Usual limit of 3 copies max of any card still applies.
- Deck construction uses a point system. Some cards are assigned a point value; most cards cost zero points. The total point cost of cards in your Main Deck, Extra Deck, and Side Deck (combined) cannot exceed the point cap for that event.
For Regional Qualifiers, all Genesys tournaments will use the 100 Points cap for Deck-building and will require a Deck List:
Go here to create and print your Deck list, using the early access point tabulator tool.
Go here to read up on info and strategy tips for Genesys, where and how to play, and how to build Genesys Decks (or modify your existing Decks)!
For more information about Genesys, please visit: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/genesys/
Q: Will I need to complete and turn in a Deck List?
Yes. All Duelists participating in a Regional Qualifier (and Dragon Duels) must turn in a completed Deck List to participate. Please check with the Tournament Organizer for additional information regarding the Deck List collection process.
Duelists can download the official KDE-US Deck List at https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/forms/KDE_DeckList.pdf. This is an editable PDF, so you will be able to type the card names in this form, which should help as your Deck List needs to be legible and complete – write the name of each card in full, and write down how many copies you have in your Deck.
Make sure your name and CARD GAME ID are on your Deck List.
Make sure your Deck List exactly matches your Deck.
Duelists are encouraged to complete their Deck List before attempting to register for the Tournament by using the downloadable KDE-US Deck List and typing out all the necessary information in the editable fields on the form.
Q: What cards are legal for play?
Please check the “Products” page online at https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/products/ for an updated look at the legality dates of Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME product releases, prior to preparing your Deck for the event.
In addition to checking the tournament legality of a product, please check the current Advanced Format Forbidden/Limited list. Certain cards in products with tournament-legal dates can sometimes be excluded from the current format.
Remote Duel tournaments also include additional cards that are forbidden from use due to the cards being unable to successfully resolve. The Remote Duel Forbidden List can be found in the Remote Duel Best Practices Guide at this link:
https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/remoteduel/EN_Remote_Duel_Best_Practice_Guide_V_1_2.pdf
Cards that have been altered from their original appearance with surface decoration may be used for play only if the alterations do not obscure any portion of the card text, make the illustration difficult to recognize, or make the card distinguishable from other cards in the Deck while it is face-down.
If a card’s surface decoration renders the card unrecognizable at first glance, then the card is not allowed for tournament play.
The Head Judge of the event has final arbitration on whether altered cards may be used at the tournament. Duelists are responsible for determining whether their altered cards are acceptable for use before the start of the tournament.
Q: Can I use OCG cards (cards printed for use in Japan and other Asian territories) in my Deck?
No, cards printed for Asian markets are not legal for play in TCG tournaments, even if you have a translation available. This includes Asian English cards.
The best way to determine if a card is legal for TCG tournaments is to check the card back. Located at the bottom right of the card back is the Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME logo. Please see the table below for more clarification:
| TCG Logo Legal for TCG Tournaments | Japanese OCG Logo Not legal for TCG Tournaments | Asian-English Logo Not legal for TCG Tournaments |
 |  |  |
Q: Can I use foreign language cards in my Deck?
You can use foreign-language copies of legal-for-play cards printed for the TCG market, as long as you can show an official translation of the card, kept outside of your Deck and Card Case when asked to do so by an opponent or tournament official. If an opponent or tournament official has difficulty reading the card text, make sure to have the full local language card name ready to ensure it can be found quickly in NEURON, the companion app for the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG, or the official Yu-Gi-Oh! Card Database.
Q: I want to judge at a Regional Qualifier, instead of competing as a Duelist – how can I apply?
To judge at a Regional Qualifier, judges must be registered in the KDE-US Judge Program.
Judges must first pass the online Level 1 Rulings Comprehension test available at https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/judges/index.html. Following their successful completion of the test, they must then follow the instructions in their confirmation email and send in a completed application to join the KDE-US Judge Program. All judges are required to hold Level 1 Rulings Comprehension certification and be enrolled in the KDE-US Judge Program to be eligible to judge at a Regional Qualifier.
If you’re interested in judging, you should contact the Tournament Organizer for the Regional Qualifier as soon as possible (use the contact number provided in the Regional Locator listing). Most Tournament Organizers are always on the lookout for Judge Staff, so be prepared to provide your full name, contact information, including email and phone number, and a description of your previous judging experience.
Q: I would like to provide feedback to KDE-US concerning the Regional I attended, who should I contact?
If you attended one of our Regional Qualifiers and would like to send us feedback, you can send us an e-mail about your specific event by e-mailing us at us-opsupport@kde-us.com.
Please make sure your e-mail includes which Regional Qualifier you attended, including date and location.
PREPARING FOR THE TOURNAMENT – IN-PERSON REGIONAL QUALIFIERS
Duelists who wish to enter a Regional Qualifier must meet the following criteria
- Have a Deck that meets the current Advanced Format criteria.
- Have a CARD GAME ID number (obtainable at the event) and be in good standing.
- Have read and understood the following documents. These documents can be found at https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/organizedplay/
- KDE-US Tournament Policy
- Tournament Infractions and Penalties Policy
- Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME Official Rulebook
Duelists who have been suspended from Organized Play by KDE-US are not considered to be in good standing and may not register for or compete in Sanctioned or Official events.
Suspended Duelists may not enter the venue of a Regional Qualifier tournament, no exceptions. If a suspended person is discovered at the venue, they may be charged with offenses including but not limited to trespassing, as well as an extension of their suspension.
If a Duelist’s name appears on the Suspended Duelists list, they are not allowed to be on the premises, even if they have reached their date of eligibility for reinstatement. Suspended Duelists are required to apply for reinstatement with the KDE-US Penalty Committee via us-penalty@kde-us.com. Once their applications have been reviewed, and their reinstatement accepted, their name will be removed from the list. Until that time, they are Suspended Duelists.
Q: What will I need to bring to a Regional Qualifier tournament?
You should bring a tournament-legal Deck as described above, along with any tournament supplies you will need, such as paper and pen to track Life Points, dice or counters if you are using cards which require them, extra sleeves to replace any that become damaged, and so forth. If you have a CARD GAME ID number, you should bring your number. You’ll also need the entry fee for the tournament, as well as money for your incidentals (food, drink, Public Events, etc.).
Q: Are there any items I am not allowed to bring to the tournament?
Attendees may not bring any items into the tournament venue that are prohibited by law in their area (local, state, or federal). In addition, unlawful items/transactions, weapons of any kind, and substance drugs which may be illegal on a local, state, and/or federal level, are not allowed at Sanctioned/Official events. Attendees who bring any such items to a tournament venue will incur penalties, including Disqualification and removal from the event, and risk suspension from KDE-US Organized Play.
The use of electronic and/or vapor cigarettes are not permitted on the tournament floor at any Sanctioned/Official events, or in areas designated for tournament attendees.
Q: What if I lost an item at a Regional Qualifier tournament?
Duelists are responsible for looking after their own belongings at the event. Konami Digital Entertainment, Tournament Organizers, Staff, and Judges bear no responsibility for, and cannot be held liable for, any loss, theft or damage to the person or personal property of any attendee.
Tournament Organizers are required to keep lost and found items for at least 60 days after the conclusion of the Regional Qualifier. Duelists who lost items should seek the Lost & Found on-site. If the item is not found on-site, Duelists are encouraged to contact the Tournament Organizer within the 60-day period on the chance the lost item has been turned in. Tournament Organizer information can be found on the Regional Qualifier Regional Listings page found at https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/regional-locations/.
Q: What will I need to bring to register for the tournament?
Duelist wishing to register for a Regional Qualifier will be required to complete a registration form at the event. Duelists will be required to present their CARD GAME ID number along with a form of ID to register for the event. Acceptable forms of ID include current-year School ID cards, driver’s licenses, passports, or other government-issued identification documents.
If you are under the age of 16, you can bring in a copy of your birth certificate as proof of ID. Duelists under the age of 16 are required to have a parent or guardian read and sign the registration form in order to be eligible to participate in a Regional Qualifier.
Duelists who register or attempt to register under another Duelist’s name or CARD GAME ID number will be disqualified from the event, and risk suspension from KDE-US Organized Play events. Duelists are required to register with their legal name, as it appears on their form of ID. Nicknames may not be used when registering for a Regional Qualifier. Initials to replace the First or Last Names may not be used when registering for a Regional Qualifier.
Q: Can I pre-register for the Regional Qualifier?
Duelists should check with the Tournament Organizer to see if the event is offering pre-registration. All pre-registered Duelists must still complete all required paperwork and must be present and show a valid ID at the event to be registered in KCGN and enrolled in the Tournament. Pre-registered Duelists should receive their participation product on site upon providing all necessary paperwork.
Q: If I’ve never been to a Regional Qualifier tournament, what should I expect?
Regional Qualifiers are large tournaments and attract competitive Duelists who are attempting to earn WCQ invites, Regional prizes and keeping their Dueling skills honed.
There are a lot of things you should do to make sure you are prepared before heading to the tournament.
Read over the list of things you will need for the tournament, and make sure you have everything.
You’ll have a better time at the event if you don’t have too many bulky or heavy possessions to carry around, as it can get crowded there on the floor. Think ahead while you are planning what to bring with you.
When you get to the event, you will need to register to play.
To register, you’ll need a Registration form, a form of ID, your CARD GAME ID if you have one already, and the entry fee for the tournament. You can get a Registration form at the event, or you can get one to print at home before the tournament by clicking on this link:
https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/forms/Reg_Form_2025-EN_editable.pdf
Make sure your Registration form is filled out completely before you reach the registration station.
You will also need a CARD GAME ID number – this is the ID number used to track you in the tournament. If you don’t already have one, you will be able to get one at the tournament.
If you have a CARD GAME ID and have lost or forgotten it, you can ask the Registration station to look it up for you. If you’ve played in a previous event, they may be able to retrieve your number.
Once you have a completed Registration form and a CARD GAME ID, you can register for the tournament.
Please arrive early enough before the Regional Qualifier is scheduled to start to ensure you will be properly registered for the tournament. Registration generally closes 15 minutes before the scheduled start time, but please check with the Tournament Organizer regarding registration closing times. Duelists may register late for an event and will begin the event with a Round 1 Match Loss. Space is always limited based on the capacity of the venue.
Venues are selected to be able to accommodate at least 10% more than the average attendance in the Region or 10% more than the last attendance for an event held in the Region, whichever number is greater, but on very rare occasions, some venues may not be able to accommodate the actual turnout. It is recommended to arrive and register in a timely manner, especially if you are travelling to attend the event. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact the Tournament Organizer via the contact information provided at the Regional Locator page:
(https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/regional-locations/).
You will also need a Deck List. A Deck List is required to participate in the Regional Qualifier. You can get a Deck List form at the event when you register, or you can download one to fill out ahead of time by clicking on this link: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/forms/KDE_DeckList.pdf
This is an editable PDF, so you will be able to type the card names in this form, which should help as your Deck List needs to be legible and complete – write the name of each card in full, and write down how many copies you have in your Deck.
- Make sure your name and CARD GAME ID are on your Deck List.
- Make sure your Deck List exactly matches your Deck.
Please check with the Head Judge for additional instructions on the Deck List collection process.
Duelists are responsible for paying attention to information from judges and/or tournament staff to understand what is going on. If Duelists have questions about the event either beforehand or while they are there, they should check with the Tournament Organizer.
Before heading to the event, all Duelists should read over the KDE-US Tournament Policy and Penalty Guidelines carefully. These documents tell you what you can and cannot do at an event and give you a good idea of what to expect. You may find these Guidelines by clicking the following links.
KDE-US Official Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME Tournament Policy:
https://img.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/penalty_guide/YGOTCG_Tournament_Policy_v_2_5.pdf
Tournament Infractions and Penalties Policy:
https://img.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/penalty_guide/Penalty_Guidelines_v_2_3.pdf
When you compete in a Regional Qualifier tournament, you’ll be held to high standards of play and sportsmanship. You should know how the cards in your Deck work, and should take great care to prepare your Deck, sleeves, and Deck List. Duelists must pay attention to information from judges and/or tournament staff to understand what is going on. Duelists are expected to know and understand the information provided in the above policies and guidelines while at a Regional Qualifier or any Sanctioned event.
Regional Qualifiers are excellent places to test your skills, learn more about deckbuilding and strategy, and see how well you match up against the other Duelists in your area.
Q: I want to vend at a Regional Qualifier. Whom should I contact?
Vending space is generally available at Regional Qualifiers held outside of Official Tournament Stores and is open to Official Tournament Stores in good standing. Vendors must meet certain requirements and agree to abide by set guidelines. Interested vendors should email us-opsupport@kde-us.com with the header “Request to Vend at [name and location of Regional Qualifier]”. All potential vendors at Regional Qualifiers must apply to KDE-US, not the TO, via the instructions in the Vendor Application Form no later than three (3) weeks before the first scheduled event in that Regional season.
Vending space is provided at no charge. TOs may not charge a fee for vendors at their events.
Vending applications are reviewed by KDE-US and a list of approved applicants is submitted to the Tournament Organizer. The Tournament Organizer is responsible to contact the approved applicants on the status of their eligibility to vend at that specific Regional Qualifier. Eligibility to vend at any given Regional is always based on space restrictions. In many cases, there will be more approved applicants than available vending spaces for the event. Applicants should not be discouraged if they are unable to vend at a given Regional Qualifier.
Q: Whom should I contact for more information about a specific Regional Qualifier?
Your best resource for answers about a specific Regional Qualifier event is the contact number listed on the Regional Locator. KDE-US won’t be able to answer questions such as “How do I get to the venue?,” “Where should I park?,” “When does registration start?,” and so forth. For questions such as these, you will need to contact the Tournament Organizer directly.
If you have more general questions about Regional Qualifiers, you can send them to us-opsupport@kde-us.com. Please be as detailed as possible, so we can try to provide you with the answers you’re seeking!
PREPARING FOR THE TOURNAMENT – REMOTE DUEL REGIONAL QUALIFIERS
Duelists who wish to enter a Remote Duel Regional Qualifier must meet the following criteria
- Have a Deck that meets the current Advanced Format criteria.
- Have a CARD GAME ID number (if this is your first event, you can obtain one online from https://cardgame-network.konami.net/) and be in good standing
- Have read and understood the following documents. These documents can be found at https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/organizedplay/
- KDE-US Official Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME Tournament Policy
- KDE-US Official Tournament Infractions and Penalties Policy
- Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME Official Rulebook
- Have read and agree to abide by the Remote Duel Best Practices Guide
- Have a valid shipping address in the country (United States or Canada) in which the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier is being held
- Have a functional Remote Duel setup
Duelists who have been suspended from Organized Play by KDE-US are not considered to be in good standing and may not register for or compete in Sanctioned or Official events.
Suspended Duelists may not enter the Discord server of a Regional Qualifier tournament, no exceptions. If a Suspended Duelist is discovered on the Discord server, they may receive an extension to their suspension.
If a Duelist’s name appears on the Suspended Duelist list, they are not allowed to be on the Discord server, even if they have reached their date of eligibility for reinstatement. Suspended Duelists are required to apply for reinstatement with the KDE-US Penalty Committee via us-penalty@kde-us.com. Once their applications have been reviewed, and their reinstatement accepted, their name will be removed from the list. Until that time, they are Suspended Duelists.
Q: What is Remote Duel?
A: Remote Duel is Sanctioned Organized Play hosted in a virtual environment, run on designated Discord Servers. To participate, TCG Duelists will need a webcam, smartphone or tablet to display their field to their opponent.
You can find more details on Remote Duel on our website:
- https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/remoteduel/index.html.
- You are responsible for a stable internet connection and a working Remote Duel setup in order to participate in a Remote Duel event.
- If you lose your video feed, have excessively lagging or frozen video, or otherwise disconnect from a Duel in progress, you will receive a Game Loss.
- Please be mindful of background noise around your Remote Duel setup, so you and your opponent can hear each other clearly.
Duelists should review and take note of the Yu-Gi-Oh! Tournament Policy document to prepare for events.
https://img.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/penalty_guide/YGOTCG_Tournament_Policy_v_2_5.pdf
Q: What will I need to have to participate in a Remote Duel Regional Qualifier tournament?
You need to have a functional Remote Duel setup and any tournament supplies you will need, such as a tournament-legal Advanced Constructed Deck, along with any tournament supplies you will need, such as paper and pen to track Life Points, dice or counters if you are using cards which require them, extra sleeves to replace any that become damaged, and so forth.
Q: Are there any items I am not allowed to have visible in my Dueling Setup during the tournament?
Duelists may not display or have visible any items that are prohibited by law in their area (local, state, or federal). In addition, unlawful items/transactions, weapons of any kind, and substance drugs which may be illegal on a local, state, and/or federal level, are not allowed at Sanctioned/Official events. Attendees who have any such items visible will incur penalties, including Disqualification and removal from the event, and risk suspension from KDE-US Organized Play.
The use of electronic and/or vapor cigarettes are not permitted to be visible during any Sanctioned/Official Remote Duel events.
Q: What will I need to have to register for the tournament?
Duelist wishing to register for a Regional Qualifier will be required to complete a registration form. Duelists will be required to present their CARD GAME ID number along with a form of ID to register for the event. Acceptable forms of ID include current-year School ID cards, driver’s licenses, passports, or other government-issued identification documents.
If you are under the age of 16, you can show a copy of your birth certificate as proof of ID. Duelists under the age of 16 are required to have a parent or guardian read and sign the registration form in order to be eligible to participate in a Regional Qualifier.
Duelists who register or attempt to register under another Duelist’s name or CARD GAME ID number will be disqualified from the event, and risk suspension from KDE-US Organized Play events. Duelists are required to register with their legal name, as it appears on their form of ID. Nicknames may not be used when registering for a Regional Qualifier. Initials to replace the First or Last Names may not be used when registering for a Regional Qualifier.
Q: Can I pre-register for the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier?
Duelists should check with the Tournament Organizer to see if the event is offering pre-registration. All pre-registered Duelists must still complete all required paperwork and must be present and show a valid ID at the event to be registered in KCGN and enrolled in the Tournament.
Q: If I’ve participated in a Remote Duel Regional Qualifier tournament, what should I expect?
Remote Duel Regional Qualifiers are large tournaments and attract competitive Duelists who are attempting to earn WCQ invites, Regional prizes, and keeping their Dueling skills honed.
There are a lot of things you should do to make sure you are prepared before registering for the tournament. Read over the list of things you will need for the tournament, and make sure you have everything.
Before you can begin playing, you will need to register for the tournament.
To register, you’ll need a Registration form, a form of ID, your CARD GAME ID if you have one already, and the entry fee for the tournament. You can get the Registration Form before the tournament by clicking on this link: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/forms/Reg_Form_2025-EN_editable.pdf
Make sure your Registration form is filled out completely before you attempt to register.
You will also need a CARD GAME ID number – this is the ID number used to track you in the tournament. If you don’t already have one, you can register for one online at https://cardgame-network.konami.net/. If you have trouble registering for a CARD GAME ID, speak with event staff on the tournament’s Discord server to get assistance.
If you have a CARD GAME ID and have lost or forgotten it, you can ask the event staff to look it up for you. If you’ve played in a previous event, they may be able to retrieve your number.
Once you have a completed Registration form and a CARD GAME ID, you can register for the tournament.
Please join the Discord server early enough before the Regional Qualifier is scheduled to start to ensure you will be properly registered for the tournament. Registration generally closes 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Duelists may register late for an event and will begin the event with a Round 1 Match Loss. Space is always limited based on the capacity of the server.
(https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/regional-locations/).
You will also need a Deck List. A Deck List is required to participate in the Regional Qualifier. You can get a Deck List form at this link: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/forms/KDE_DeckList.pdf
This is an editable PDF, so you will be able to type the card names in this form, which should help as your Deck List needs to be legible and complete – write the name of each card in full, and write down how many copies you have in your Deck.
- Make sure your name and CARD GAME ID are on your Deck List.
- Make sure your Deck List exactly matches your Deck.
Please check with the Head Judge for additional instructions on the Deck List collection process.
Duelists are responsible for paying attention to information from judges and/or tournament staff to understand what is going on. If Duelists have questions about the event either beforehand or while they are Dueling, they should check with the Tournament Organizer.
Before logging into the Discord server for the event, all Duelists should read over the KDE-US Tournament Policy and Penalty Guidelines carefully. These documents tell you what you can and cannot do at an event and give you a good idea of what to expect. You may find these guidelines by clicking the following links.
KDE-US Official Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME Tournament Policy:
https://img.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/penalty_guide/YGOTCG_Tournament_Policy_v_2_5.pdf
Tournament Infractions and Penalties Policy:
https://img.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/penalty_guide/Penalty_Guidelines_v_2_3.pdf
When you compete in a Regional Qualifier tournament, you’ll be held to high standards of play and sportsmanship. You should know how the cards in your Deck work, and should take great care to prepare your Deck, sleeves, and Deck List. Duelists must pay attention to information from judges and/or tournament staff to understand what is going on. Duelists are expected to know and understand the information provided in the above policies and guidelines during a Regional Qualifier or any Sanctioned event.
Regional Qualifiers are excellent places to test your skills, learn more about Deck-building and strategy, and see how well you match up against the other Duelists in your area.
Q: What Tournament Policy information do I need to know for a Remote Duel Event?
A: Duelists are responsible to know the information contained in KDE-US Official Tournament Policy documents, which can be found here: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/organizedplay/
| Infraction | Penalty |
| Disconnection | If a Duelist gets disconnected from the video channel during a Duel, they will receive a Game Loss. This is a Procedural Error – Major infraction. |
| Frozen Video | If a Duelist’s video feed becomes disrupted or frozen during a Duel, they will receive a Game Loss. This is a Procedural Error – Major infraction. This is not the same as a temporary lag, please use the Pause/Play card or some other method to indicate lag. |
| Streaming during a Match (for events prohibiting streaming) | If a Duelist streams or otherwise broadcasts an ongoing Match at an event that has prohibited streaming, they will receive a Warning. This is an Unsporting Conduct-Minor infraction and can be upgraded if the Duelist repeats the infraction. Duelists should verify ahead of time whether streaming is allowed. |
| Revealing Private Knowledge | If a Duelist inadvertently reveals the contents of their Hand, etc. they will receive a Warning. This is a Procedural Error – Minor infraction and can be upgraded if the Duelist repeats the infraction. |
| Having items or clothing with offensive images or language on camera | If a Duelist is using tournament materials, wearing clothing, or displaying items within view of the camera with offensive language or images, they will receive a Warning and be required to remove the items in question. This is an Unsporting Conduct – Minor infraction and can be upgraded if the Duelist repeats the infraction. Tardiness or Slow Play penalties may also apply if the correction is not made in a timely manner. |
| Using a play area that is cluttered or unclear | If a Duelist is playing with a field that is poorly lit, lacking contrast between sleeves and mat, is cluttered with items not required for the current Match, etc. they will receive a Warning and be required to correct the issues. This is a Procedural Error – Minor infraction and can be upgraded if the Duelist does not correct the issues or repeats the infraction. Tardiness or Slow Play penalties may also apply if the correction is not made in a timely manner. |
| Not being appropriately dressed | If a Duelist is not appropriately dressed (shirts and pants, shorts, or skirts must be worn) they will receive a Warning and be required to correct the situation. This is an Unsporting Conduct – Minor infraction and can be upgraded if the Duelist repeats the infraction. Tardiness or Slow Play penalties may also apply if the correction is not made in a timely manner. |
| Not keeping hands in view/performing actions off camera | If a Duelist does not keep their hands holding cards or other game-related actions in view of the camera and their action is unintentional, they will receive a Warning. This is a Procedural Error – Minor infraction and can be upgraded if the Duelist repeats the infraction. |
| Outside interference in a Match | If a Duelist receives outside interference in their Match, they will receive an Unsporting Conduct infraction. The severity of the infraction will determine the appropriate penalty, which could range from a Warning to a Disqualification. |
| Including cards Forbidden in Remote Duel in the Deck | If the error is caught prior to the start of the event, the Duelist receives a Warning for a Deck Error – Minor infraction and must remove the Forbidden card(s). If removing the Forbidden cards results in an illegal Deck (less than 40 cards), then the Duelist must move cards from their Side Deck to the Main Deck to total 40 cards. If the error is caught after the event has started, the Duelist receives a Game Loss for a Deck Error – Major infraction and must remove the Forbidden card(s). If removing the Forbidden cards results in an illegal Deck (less than 40 cards), then the Duelist must move cards from their Side Deck to the Main Deck to total 40 cards. |
Q: I may need assistance to participate in the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier due to a disability or recent injury, what should I do?
A: Please contact the Tournament Organizer of the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier to make them aware of your concerns so that you can be provided with a comfortable gaming experience.
Q: Who should I contact for more information about a specific Remote Duel Regional Qualifier?
Your best resource for answers about a specific Regional Qualifier event is the contact number listed on the Regional Locator. KDE-US won’t be able to answer questions such as “How do I join the Discord Server?,” “Can I preregister for the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier?,” “When does registration start?,” and so forth. For questions such as these, you will need to contact the Tournament Organizer directly.
If you have more general questions about Remote Duel Regional Qualifiers, you can send them to us-opsupport@kde-us.com. Please be as detailed as possible, so we can try to provide you with the answers you’re seeking!
AT THE TOURNAMENT – IN-PERSON REGIONAL QUALIFIERS
Q: Will there be Public Events?
Some Regional Qualifiers will offer Public Events such as Dragon Duels and Win-A-Mat events. Check with your Tournament Organizer to find out which events are being offered at that specific Regional Qualifier.
Q: What is a Dragon Duel?
Dragon Duel tournaments are exclusive to Duelists born before a certain calendar year, with the calendar year requirement moving forward after the World Championship each year. The current year requirement is for Duelists born on 2012 or later.
Dragon Duel tournaments are Advanced Format, Constructed events. Dragon Duel tournaments are exclusive to Duelists born 2012 or later, with the top 4 participants earning an invite to the Championship Qualifier. It is run using Swiss Rounds without a Top Cut playoff.
Entry for a Dragon Duel tournament at a Regional Qualifier is Free.
Participants are required to provide proof of age to participate in a Dragon Duel (Copy of Birth Certificate, Passport, etc.).
A minimum of four (4) Duelists is required to run a Dragon Duel tournament at a Regional Qualifier.
A Deck List is required for participation into a Dragon Duel. Dragon Duel tournaments are Tier 2 events.
The Top 4 Duelists in a Dragon Duel tournament or their guardian must fill out a copy the WCQ Invite Form prior to receiving their prizes. A valid email address must be provided for either the Duelist or the guardian.
Dragon Duel Tournaments should start soon after the conclusion of the 2nd Round of Swiss of the Regional Qualifier. Dragon Duel registration should open approximately an hour before the Dragon Duel is scheduled to start. Duelists should contact the Tournament Organizer if they have additional questions regarding the Dragon Duel tournament and start times.
Q: What are the prizes for the Dragon Duel?
The 1st Ranked Duelist at the end of Swiss will receive a Regional Card Case.
Top 4 Duelists in a Dragon Duel tournament will receive a Regional Game Mats.
Top 4 Duelists earn an invite to the WCQ for their region. Regardless of attendance, only four (4) invites are awarded for a Dragon Duel tournament at a Regional Qualifier.
Top 4 Duelists are required to complete and submit a WCQ Invite form on site. Prizes are not awarded until after the WCQ Invite forms have been completed and properly submitted.
Q: Will there be a Dragon Duel at the Regional Qualifier?
Please check the Regional Qualifier listing page at https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/regional-locations/ to see if the Regional Qualifier is scheduled to host a Dragon Duel tournament.
Q: What happens if not enough Dragon Duel eligible Duelists register for the Dragon Duel?
If fewer than four (4) Dragon Duel eligible Duelists register for the Dragon Duel, the TO should still award each registered Dragon Duelist with free entry into a Win-A-Mat (no participation packs will be awarded) when awarding prizing to Duelists.
Please note that the Regional Game Mat and the WCQ Invites are only awarded if the event is successfully run.
Q: Will the Regional Qualifier have any perks if I am a current or former UDS Invitational Champion?
The perks of winning an Ultimate Duelist Series Invitational concluded after the NAWCQ 2025. Only the Duelist who won the Undisputed Ultimate Duelist Series Championship, Jesse Kotton, should receive free entry into the Regional Qualifier.
To be eligible for free entry into the Regional Qualifier, the UUDS Champion should:
The Undisputed Ultimate Duelist Series Champion should not receive any participation packs as the result of the free entry into the event. The champion may opt to pay for their entry fee instead and receive the appropriate participation prizes.
Q: How long will the Regional Qualifier tournament last?
The number of Swiss Rounds is determined by the number of Duelists enrolled in the tournament. Rounds in the Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME are 50 minutes long. Since you can play all Rounds in a Swiss tournament, you should expect to be at the event for several hours.
Q: What happens if I am not done with my Match after 50 minutes?
If the Match does not finish within 50 minutes, the result will be a double loss.
- When time ends in the Round, the Match is over. Neither Duelist may begin or continue any action that may take place in the Game.
- If time expires and the Match has not finished it will be a Double Loss.
- A Match is considered finished when one of the Duelists has either won two Duels or lost 2 Duels.
- If a Duelist has won 1 Duels and the Match has not concluded after 50 minutes, the Match is a Double Loss.
- If the Duelists have completed 3 Duels without a winner, and there is time remaining in the Round, the Duelists will go into a 4th Duel.
Q: Will there be vendors on site so I can buy single cards and supplies?
If your Regional Qualifier is being held in an Official Tournament Store, you will have access to tournament supplies. Regional Qualifiers held outside of Official Tournament Stores will provide vendors selling single cards, sealed product, and card supplies such as sleeves and Card Cases.
Q: Can I buy and sell cards from other participants at the event?
Duelists are not allowed to buy or sell cards from one another at Regional Qualifier venues. If you do so, you risk being removed from the event.
DURING THE TOURNAMENT – REMOTE DUEL REGIONAL QUALIFIERS
Q: Am I allowed to stream or record any of my Matches?
A: Duelists are not allowed to stream or record any of the Matches during this event.
Q: Will there be Public Events?
Some Remote Duel Regional Qualifiers will offer Public Events such as Dragon Duels and Win-A-Mat events. Check with your Tournament Organizer to find out which events are being offered at that specific Remote Duel Regional Qualifier.
Q: I’m under 13. Am I able to participate in a Remote Duel tournament?
You can participate, but your parent or guardian must register you for the event and you must ensure you are following Discord’s age requirements. Due to the nature of Remote Duels, event staff will need to verify your parent or guardian is registering you and understands you will be participating in the event using cameras to capture your field and using Discord to communicate with other Duelists and event staff. Verifying your parent or guardian’s consent will need to happen through video communication. Text-only verification will not be enough.
Q: What is a Dragon Duel?
Dragon Duel tournaments are exclusive to Duelists born before a certain calendar year, with the calendar year requirement moving forward after the World Championship each year. The current year requirement is for Duelists born on 2012 or later.
Dragon Duel tournaments are Advanced Format, Constructed events. Dragon Duel tournaments are exclusive to Duelists born 2012 or later, with the top 4 participants earning an invite to the WCQ. It is run using Swiss Rounds without a Top Cut playoff.
Entry for a Dragon Duel tournament at a Remote Duel Regional Qualifier is Free.
A minimum of four (4) Duelists is required to run a Dragon Duel tournament at a Remote Duel Regional Qualifier.
A Deck List is required for participation into a Dragon Duel. Dragon Duel tournaments are Tier 2 events.
The parent or guardian of the Top 4 Duelists in a Dragon Duel tournament must fill out a copy the WCQ Invite Form prior to their prizes getting mailed or picked up. A valid email address must be provided for either the Duelist or the guardian.
Dragon Duel Tournaments should start soon after the conclusion of the 2nd Round of Swiss of the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier. Dragon Duel registration should open approximately an hour before the Dragon Duel is scheduled to start. Duelists should contact the Tournament Organizer if they have additional questions regarding the Dragon Duel tournament and start times.
Q: What are the prizes for the Dragon Duel?
The 1st Ranked Duelist at the end of Swiss will receive a Regional Card Case.
Top 4 Duelists in a Dragon Duel tournament will receive a Regional Game Mat.
Top 4 Duelists earn an invite to the 2026 WCQ for their Region. Regardless of attendance, only four (4) invites are awarded for a Dragon Duel tournament at a Regional Qualifier.
Top 4 Duelists are required to complete and submit a WCQ Invite form on site. Prizes are not awarded until after the WCQ Invite forms have been completed and properly submitted.
Q: Will there be a Dragon Duel at the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier?
Please check the Regional Qualifier listing page at https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/regional-locations/ to see if the Regional Qualifier is scheduled to host a Dragon Duel tournament.
Q: What happens if not enough Dragon Duel eligible Duelists register for the Dragon Duel?
If less than four (4) Dragon Duel eligible Duelists register for the Dragon Duel, all eligible Duelists who have registered for the event will still win a free entry into a Win-A-Mat (no participation packs will be awarded.)
Please note that the Regional Game Mat and the WCQ Invites are only awarded if the event is successfully run.
Q: Will the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier have any perks if I am a current or former UDS Invitational Champion?
The perks of winning an Ultimate Duelist Series Invitational concluded after the NAWCQ 2025. Only the Duelist who won the Undisputed Ultimate Duelist Series Championship, Jesse Kotton, should receive free entry into the Regional Qualifier.
To be eligible for free entry into the Regional Qualifier, the UUDS Champion(s) should:
- State at the time of Registration that he is the Undisputed UDS Champion
The Undisputed Ultimate Duelist Series Champion should not receive any participation packs as the result of the free entry into the event. The champion may opt to pay for his entry fee instead and receive the appropriate participation prizes.
Q: How long will the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier tournament last?
The number of Swiss Rounds is determined by the number of Duelists enrolled in the tournament. Rounds in the Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME for Remote Duel events are 55 minutes long. Since you can play all Rounds in a Swiss tournament, you should expect to be at the event for several hours.
Q: What happens if I am not done with my Match after 55 minutes?
If the Remote Duel Match does not finish within 55 minutes, the result will be a Double Loss.
Q: Can I buy and sell cards from other participants during the event?
Duelists are not allowed to buy or sell cards from one another on Remote Duel Regional Qualifier Discord servers. If you do so, you risk being removed from the event.
Buying and selling includes all items, not just cards or gaming supplies.
Trading is restricted to cards and Yu-Gi-Oh! related items such as playmats or dice – attendees may not trade other items on Remote Duel Regional Qualifier Discord servers.
Attendees may not solicit business, distribute links to site or servers, etc., while on the Remote Duel Regional Qualifier Discord servers.
QUALIFICATION FOR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER TOURNAMENTS
Q: Do I have to qualify in my own country?
Invites awarded in North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean are only valid for WCQs within those regions. Duelists from outside these regions are not eligible to earn invites within these regions, nor within the region in which they reside.
Duelists can earn a WCQ invite through Remote Duel Regional Qualifiers, Dragon Duels, OTS Championships, and Remote Duel Yu-Gi-Oh! Championship Series Tournaments in any country within North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean but you can only compete in the WCQ held for your Region and only for the Regions listed here.
Examples
| If a Duelist from Mexico qualifies in the United States, he or she will still play in the Central America World Championship Qualifier. |
| If a Duelist who resides outside of North America and Latin America travels to an event outside of North America and Latin America, that Duelist is not eligible to earn an invite. |
| If a Duelist who resides outside of North America and Latin America travels to an event in North America or Latin America, that Duelist is not eligible to earn an invite unless they win the Main Event. |
If you qualify in an event outside of your region, the invite will be awarded to the WCQ event in which your region would normally qualify for (North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean only).
Q: If I qualified in a Dragon Duel tournament (for Duelists born 2012 or later) can I play in the all ages World Championship Qualifier (WCQ)?
Duelists who were born 2012 or later may choose to play in the Dragon Duel Championship or the WCQ that is held for all ages in their Region. They may not participate in both events.
Q: Will Regional Qualifier invites “pass down” if someone who has already earned an invite earns another one?
No, invites will not pass down for the 2025-2026 Regional Qualifier season.
Q: How and when will I receive my invite?
A list of Duelists who have earned invites to a WCQ is posted in KCGN. You can access the list by logging into your KCGN account. You can also go here for more information: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/rankings/wcq-invite-lists/.
- You will not receive an invite or certificate in the mail.
- You will not receive an invite or certificate via email.
- You will not be required to present any kind of certificate to enter a WCQ.
- Your name and information will be added to the Invite List, and that is proof that you qualified.
- Information about your WCQ will likewise be posted on KCGN – it will not be mailed or sent to you. Duelists are responsible to verify that their name appears on the appropriate Invite List, and to access posted information about their WCQ by checking the https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/world-championship-qualifier/ page for updates.
If you have a question about your invite status, you can email us-opsupport@kde-us.com and ask. Please provide your full name, CARD GAME ID number, and the date and location of the event at which you qualified, along with your question, so we can answer you quickly and efficiently.
Please remember that invite status information isn’t automatically or instantly updated, so you should allow approximately 2-8 weeks after the conclusion of your event for results to be posted from your tournament.
Q: Is travel or hotel included with my invite?
Travel and/or lodging are not included with invites earned at a Regional Qualifier – the expenses incurred in attending a WCQ tournament will be the responsibility of the Duelist.