The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous human pathogen associated with various diseases, including infectious mononucleosis and multiple types of cancer. The host's immune system employs various defenses to control and eliminate EBV, but the virus has evolved sophisticated mechanisms to evade detection and elimination by both innate and adaptive immune systems. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the complex mechanisms by which EBV evades the immune response, establishing enduring latent infections or initiating lytic replication. Key strategies include manipulation of cell death pathways, promotion of cell proliferation, and inhibition of immune recognition. EBV proteins such as LMP1, LMP2, and BHRF1 play crucial roles in these evasion tactics, while non-coding RNAs like EBERs and miRNAs also contribute to immune evasion. The review highlights the intricate interplay between EBV and the immune system, emphasizing the need for further research to develop enhanced therapeutic approaches.The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous human pathogen associated with various diseases, including infectious mononucleosis and multiple types of cancer. The host's immune system employs various defenses to control and eliminate EBV, but the virus has evolved sophisticated mechanisms to evade detection and elimination by both innate and adaptive immune systems. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the complex mechanisms by which EBV evades the immune response, establishing enduring latent infections or initiating lytic replication. Key strategies include manipulation of cell death pathways, promotion of cell proliferation, and inhibition of immune recognition. EBV proteins such as LMP1, LMP2, and BHRF1 play crucial roles in these evasion tactics, while non-coding RNAs like EBERs and miRNAs also contribute to immune evasion. The review highlights the intricate interplay between EBV and the immune system, emphasizing the need for further research to develop enhanced therapeutic approaches.