Laser direct writing(LDW) technology is one of the popular technologies in digital micro-nano machining, in which ink-jet printing technology has been widely used for its high resolution and flexibility. With more appearance of the functional materials and application requirements, the strict choice of ink-jet printing technology to the ink limits its application in some fields. Laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT) technology does not require templates and nozzles. The micro- and nano- structure printed by LIFT has high resolution, and will not be limited by the rheological properties of ink. It is appropriate to print various materials with nearly all the solids and liquids, and has be widely used in electronics, sensors, and tissue engineering in regenerative medicine. In this paper, the research progress of the LIFT has been reviewed, the physical process and application of LIFT technology have been summarizes, which will provide the reference for the further research of LIFT technology in the field of micro-nano machining.