Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	May 31, 2014		May 31, 2013		May 31, 2012
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Line Items]
Income taxes paid, net of refunds	$ 94,938		$ 55,218		$ 74,199
Interest paid	33,214	[1]	29,677	[1]	13,631
Global Payments Asia Pacific Limited [Member]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Line Items]
Interest paid	$ 3,300		$ 8,400

[1] Includes distributions to HSBC Asia of $3.3 million and $8.4 million in fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, respectively, which were characterized as interest expense pursuant to ASC 480. See Note 4 - Business and Intangible Asset Acquisitions and Joint Ventures.