Collateral (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Settlement Guarantee Management [Abstract]
Cash equivalents	$ 898	$ 931
Pledged securities at market value	286	296
Letters of credit	962	902
Guarantees	1,886	1,845
Total	$ 4,032	$ 3,974

The Company holds cash deposits from certain customers in order to ensure their performance of settlement obligations arising from credit, debit and travelers cheque product clearings. The cash collateral assets are restricted and fully offset by corresponding liabilities and both balances are presented on the consolidated balance sheet.

No definition available.

Name:	v_CashCollateralReceived
Namespace Prefix:	v_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant