In the past two decades, numerous significant advances have been achieved in the realm of the vector beams. Considering numerous published reviews already covering diverse topics in terms of generating and/or manipulating unprecedented vector beams, we summarize the typical applications of vector vortex beams in the topics of laser micro-nano processing for material modification, subtractive and additive manufactures. This paper reviews part of the critical advances in fabricating micro-nano structures on the surface and inside the materials, optical information storage and rapid fabrication of microstructures with the stereolithography based-on vector vortex beams. Particular cares are focused on the principles and technologies in applications of patterned laser-induced periodic surface structures and rapid two-photon polymerization of three-dimensional microstructures based on customized vector vortex beams. Finally, we summarize the advantages and challenges of vector vortex beams in laser micro-nano processing, and we also anticipate that more vector light fields will enable more complex applications in the future.