In order to accelerate the application of BIM technology in tunnel engineering, the application status of BIM technology in tunnel engineering is summarized and analyzed from the aspects of tunnel engineering information model standards, modeling technology and whole lifecycle application. The research results show that: (1) China is ahead in the worldwide technical standards of tunnel engineering information modeling; the BIM modeling technology of tunnel structure has been basically mature; and the BIM technology has been widely used in all stages of tunnel engineering such as design, construction, operation and maintenance. (2) The geological information model standards which are closely related to the tunnel engineering should be  further improved and extended to the information model technical standards in the construction stage and operation and maintenance stage. (3) The automatic update of the model should be realized when design varies, the supporting effect of the BIM technology in tunnel dynamic design and construction should be deepened, the research and development of the lifecycle integration platform should be strengthened, and the continuous application of BIM technology in the whole life from design to construction, operation and maintenance should be promoted.