Abstract: With the gradual depletion of petroleum resources, bio-based barrier packaging materials have garnered growing attention as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastic packaging. Lignin, the second most abundant natural polymer and the only renewable resource rich in repetitive benzene ring structural units, possesses biodegradability, biocompatibility and excellent processability. Currently, the majority of lignin is still disposed of through incineration as industrial by-products, resulting in limited utilization and low added value. Due to its unique chemical structure, water resistance, solvent resistance, aging resistance, and UV resistance, lignin exhibits significant potential in the development of bio-based barrier materials. However, further consideration is required regarding the structural characteristics of lignin, its multifaceted barrier properties in material applications, the establishment of structure-property relationships, and exploration of diverse application scenarios. Therefore, the present review provides a systematic and comprehensive review of the application of lignin-based functional materials in barrier packaging paper. Firstly, the structure and origin of lignin are briefly elucidated. A comprehensive overview of the current status of the application of lignin-based functional materials in barrier packaging papers is then provided, with particular emphasis on the advances in the use of lignin-based functional materials for water, gas, oil, ultraviolet radiation and flame retardancy properties in packaging paper. Finally, the primary challenges and future prospects for the development of lignin-based functional materials in barrier packaging paper applications are discussed. This review will provide a theoretical foundation for the utilization of lignin-based functional materials in the production of paper with single or multiple barrier properties, thereby providing practical significance for the industrial-scale manufacturing of value-added products derived from lignin.