OVERVIEW
The education sector in Greece is undergoing significant transformation, combining compelling opportunities and complex challenges for institutions and investors alike. As the country continues to modernise its legal and regulatory landscape—particularly in higher education—Greece is emerging as an increasingly attractive destination for international academic institutions seeking to establish a presence in the region. The recent introduction of a dedicated legal framework for university legal entities, enabling foreign universities to operate Greek branches, marks a pivotal shift that invites innovation, investment, and cross-border collaboration. At the same time, navigating this evolving environment requires deep local insight and strategic guidance.
Having assisted some of the world’s most pre-eminent education institutions in navigating their operations and presence in Greece, we are uniquely positioned and experienced in offering in-depth and tailor-made legal and tax support to foreign and domestic clients across all levels of the education sector.
We offer a broad range of services to both public and private universities and schools, as well as publishing houses. We support the implementation of cross-border cooperation, alliances and integration between educational institutions from every angle. We cover all eventually pertinent areas and expertise, from M&A transactions and tax considerations to regulatory compliance, data protection, employment matters and real estate, to ensure a well-rounded approach.
Our clients include leading universities and higher education institutions, international - and Greek – curriculum private schools, publishing houses, as well as investors and developers active in the education sector.
Areas of expertise
Day-to-day corporate advice & governance
We provide ongoing legal support on corporate structuring, governance frameworks, internal policies and contract management tailored to the operational needs of educational institutions. Our advice ensures compliance and operational efficiency in line with best practices and applicable laws.
Regulatory support
We advise on all regulatory aspects applicable to the education sector, including licensing and ongoing advisory support with respect to a wide array of educational services. We assist our clients in navigating a wide array of demanding projects and embracing promising business opportunities, subject to challenging licensing processes at all educational levels and types, including in the context of the recently adopted framework for the establishment and operation of foreign university branches, while smoothly tackling day-to-day compliance with the ever-evolving Greek legal landscape.
Tax advice
Our team provides strategic tax planning and advice, covering issues such as VAT exemptions, structuring of cross-border activities, and compliance with tax obligations relevant to educational institutions, publishers, and education-related investments.
M&A transactions
We act on acquisitions, joint ventures and other strategic transactions involving education entities. Our team advises both investors and institutions on structuring, due diligence, and execution in this highly regulated environment.
Employment matters
We advise on employment law issues across academic and administrative staffing, including contract structuring, compliance with collective labor agreements, and immigration support for foreign personnel. We also assist with internal policies and dispute prevention.
Litigation & Arbitration
We represent clients in education-related disputes, including contractual, employment, regulatory and administrative matters. Our experience includes litigation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution tailored to the sensitivities of the education sector.
Intellectual property & Data protection
We support education providers in protecting their intellectual assets, including educational content, branding and technology. We also advise on GDPR compliance, student and staff data handling, and cybersecurity protocols for digital and hybrid education services.
