The position has the rank and status of an Ambassador Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary and the embassy is located in Madrid.

In 1720, Charles VI and Philip V recognized the Bourbon dynasty as rulers of Spain.

In 1869, Franz Joseph I recognized the government of Marshal Francisco Serrano Domínguez and that of Amadeo I.

In 1871, Franz Joseph I recognized the government of Francisco Serrano Domínguez.

In 1874, Franz Joseph I recognized the government of Alfonso XII, who restored the Bourbon dynasty.