As a new type of multi-principal element material that subverts the design paradigm of traditional single-principal element alloys, high-entropy alloys exhibit excellent mechanical properties, high-temperature stability, corrosion resistance and radiation resistance by virtue of four core effects: high entropy, sluggish diffusion, lattice distortion and cocktail effect, thus boasting broad application prospects in the field of extreme service environments. However, traditional preparation and processing technologies are prone to induce a series of problems, such as composition segregation, coarse grains and brittle phase precipitation, which severely restrict the use of their intrinsic properties and engineering applications. Owing to its unique advantages, including high energy density, ultrafast thermal cycle rate, narrow heat-affected zone and noncontact precision processing, laser technology has become a core technical approach for realizing the efficient preparation, fine microstructure regulation and high-performance optimization of high-entropy alloys. The structural characteristics and performance advantages of high entropy alloys are systematically discussed, and the inherent bottlenecks of traditional preparation technologies are analysed. The research progress of three core laser technologies, namely, laser additive manufacturing, laser surface modification and laser welding, within the field of high-entropy alloys is emphasized, and the regulatory effects of different laser processes on the microstructural evolution, defect formation and inhibition, and mechanical properties of high-entropy alloys are revealed. Key basic scientific issues and technical challenges arising from the interaction between lasers and high-entropy alloys are further discussed. The future development trends of laser technologies applied to high-entropy alloys are ultimately predicted from the perspectives of theoretical research, manufacturing processes, material systems and industrial engineering applications.