Abstract: Since the availability of global runoff data decrease year by year, the inversion algorithms, as substitutes for the river discharge measured at hydrological stations, have become increasingly important. With the continuous development of satellite remote sensing technology, the methods for estimating river discharge have increased in number. This study systematically summarized the remote sensing-based inversion methods for river discharge, as well as the inversion methods for hydraulic remote sensing elements that are closely related to the estimation of river discharge and the progress made in them. Moreover, this study reviewed the methods, principles, and application status of two types of algorithms based on hydrological models and empirical regression equations and summarized the applicable conditions and shortcomings of different methods. Finally, this study predicted the worldwide development trends of the river discharge inversion based on the satellite remote sensing technology, including ① actively developing the advanced data assimilation technology for satellite remote sensing data; ② integrating new sensor products; ③ optimizing and innovating algorithms.