[1] The participation of Russia is not yet confirmed and depends on if the team is allowed to return to the IIHF Championship program.

[2] To qualify directly, a nation had to be ranked in the top six following the 2024 Women's Ice Hockey World Championships.

[4] The three highest ranked teams, Chinese Taipei, Latvia and Iceland, advanced to Round 2.

[5] Twelve countries played in three tournaments from 12 to 15 December 2024, involving nations ranked 16th to 24th and those who advanced from Round 1 (named Qualifier 4, 5, and 6).

If nations declined to participate then those ranked lower will move up to fill their place.