Abstract: In order to resolve the problem of the rapid on-line detection of structural damage, studying the research development of nondestructive testing technology based on the EMI is necessary. This paper systematically summarizes the research progress of EMI method in recent years at home and abroad, comprehensively sums up the achievements achieved by units and individuals who apply the EMI, and introduces the experience and maturity of damage detection based on EMI in various damage cases, which will have guiding significance on the structure testing based on EMI hereafter.