Nitrogen-containing compounds are pivotal building blocks with extensive application in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, polymer materials, agrochemicals and organic synthesis. The sustainable production of nitrogen-containing compounds from renewable biomass derivatives has attracted much attention with particular interest on the reductive amination of bio-based platform molecules. Herein, an overview on the latest advances in the reductive amination of bio-based platform molecules is provided. Emphasis is primarily concentrated upon several renowned bio-based platform molecules, such as furfural, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, levulinic acid and lignin model monomers. In addition, progress with state-of-the-art catalysts of different catalytic systems based on different reductants including gaseous H₂, formic acid, NaBH₄ and hydrosilane is systematically summarized and discussed. Moreover, structure–reactivity relationships, reaction pathway/mechanism and durability as well as generality of catalysts are also highlighted.