A three-dimensional (3D) thermal-mechanical finite element analysis model for laser micro-bending of 0.1 mm thick stainless steel foil is developed. The software MSC.Marc is used in the numerical analysis of this process. The detailed simulation results such as temperature distribution, deformation filed, stress and strain field are obtained. The inner relationship among them is investigated and the temperature gradient mechanism (TGM) is expressed. Laser micro-bending experiments have been carried out on the steel foil samples, and the simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental results. Through analyzing the experimental results, the influence of laser power, scanning velocity and scanning times on bending angles is described. The works of the finite element method (FEM) simulation and experiments of the laser micro-bending are helpful for further studying on this process.