In this work we demonstrate the use of optical fiber sensors to measure temperature in thin metallic bonding wires. Temperature was measured in copper wires with diameter of 0.10, 0.28, 0.60 and 0.70mm and for different values of the driven electrical current (0.75–10.00A). A theoretical model for the system, which takes into account the relevant heat exchange mechanism, was developed. The results demonstrate the feasibility of the optical sensors application for the measurement of temperature in thin metallic bonding wires.