A 2D finite-element numerical simulation has been developed to investigate the generation of ultrasonic waves in a homogeneous isotropic elastic slab under a line-focused laser irradiation. Discussing the physical processes involved in the thermoelastic phenomena, we describe a model for the pulsed laser generation of ultrasound in a metal slab. Addressing an analytic method, on the basis of an integral transform technique, for obtaining the solutions of the elastodynamic equation, we outline a finite element method for a numerical simulation of an ultrasonic wave propagation. We present the numerical results for the displacements and the stresses generated by a line-focused laser pulse on the surface of a stainless steel slab.