The present application relates to the field of fuel filter components of internal combustion engines, and discloses a fuel filter element, including a filter element main body and a protective cover. A fuel return column extends from an upper end surface of the filter element main body. The protective cover is formed with a U-shaped groove adapted to the fuel return column, is adaptively installed on the filter element main body and is of an annular hollow structure. The U-shaped groove accommodates the fuel return column to form a protective assembly. Therefore, the problem of poor sealing caused by installation deformation damage and installation deviation of the fuel return column, and the cost of a hollow structure of the protective cover are reduced.