Amid the backdrop of global climate change and China’s “dual carbon” goals, nuclear power has emerged as a vital clean energy source. The continuous evolution of nuclear technology and the development of high-performance fuel assemblies are crucial for enhancing the safety and economy of nuclear power. This paper reviews surface treatment and modification technologies that have been applied in the nuclear fuel field. These technologies, including chemical heat treatment, oxidation, electroplating, coating, and vapor deposition, significantly improve material surface properties and optimize fuel assembly performance. Specific applications including chromium-nitrided surfaces in sodium-cooled fast reactors, oxidation treatments in AP1000 reactors, nickel plating on nickel-based alloys, graphite coatings in heavy water reactors, and beryllium coatings on fuel rod components were discussed. Additionally, the paper explores the practical applications of carbon/silicon carbide and niobium metal deposition processes on fuel particles. These techniques enhance production safety, operational stability, and productivity. Finally, the paper proposes future development prospects for surface treatment and modification technologies based on current applications.