The Greek Council of State has ruled that foreign private universities must deposit a financial guarantee of €2 million and a fee of €600,000 to establish branches in Greece. This ruling aligns with EU law and does not violate the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, or Directive 2006/123/EK concerning services in the internal market. The court's decision is significant for the future operation of foreign universities in Greece, as it establishes the financial prerequisites for compliance with regulatory standards.

Nine private universities along with the Private Universities Union had appealed against the decision set forth in the joint ministerial decision from September 27, 2024. Their appeal was aimed at annulment of the requirement for a financial guarantee and fee when applying for operational licenses. However, the Council dismissed their claims, affirming that the financial requirements are lawful and necessary for the establishment and operational licensing of these educational institutions. This ruling marks a critical step in ensuring that foreign education providers meet financial and legal obligations before being allowed to function in the country.

This decision has broader implications as it aligns Greece with EU standards on educational services while also reinforcing the regulatory framework governing foreign entities in higher education. The financial barriers may influence the entry of foreign universities into the Greek market, potentially impacting educational diversity and options available to students. As Greece continues to navigate its position within the European educational landscape, the ruling provides clarity on requirements for foreign institutions, thus shaping the future of higher education in the country.