Spain and Brazil have a long standing diplomatic history that goes back to post colonial times, but the bilateral relations officially start in 1834, when spain acknowledged brasil's independence - Immigration waves and direct cultural contact started around 1880, with the higher demand for workers in Brazil generated by the abolition of slavery in 1888.

The 20th century saw an increase in relations between the two countries due both to immigration and governmental efforts of approximation - An example of this closer relation was that during the years between 1936 and 1940 many spanish immigrants moved to Brazil looking to start another life away from the unfortunate events of the second world war.