Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of Effect from Adoption of New Revenue Standard
Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block]
Legal Matters [Abstract]
Disclosure - Legal Matters [Abstract]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
U.S. Covered Litigation
U.S. Covered Litigation [Member] [Member]
U.S. Covered Litigation [Member]
VE Territory Covered Litigation
VE Territory Covered Litigation [Member]
VE Territory Covered Litigation [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Schedule of Loss Contingencies by Contingency
Schedule of Loss Contingencies by Contingency [Table Text Block]
Defined Contribution Plan [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Retirement Plan Type [Axis]
Retirement Plan Type [Axis]
Retirement Plan Type [Domain]
Retirement Plan Type [Domain]
Pension Benefits
Pension Plan [Member]
Retirement Plan Sponsor Location [Domain]
Retirement Plan Sponsor Location [Domain]
U.S.
UNITED STATES
Non-U.S. Plans
Foreign Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Interest cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Expected return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return (Loss) on Plan Assets
Total net periodic benefit cost (income)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit)
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Schedule of Common Stock as Converted [Table]
Schedule of Common Stock as Converted [Table]
Schedule of Common Stock as Converted [Table]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class of Stock [Domain]
U.K.& I preferred stock
Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Europe preferred stock
Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Class A common stock
Common Class A [Member]
Class B common stock
Common Class B [Member]
Class C common stock
Common Class C [Member]
Schedule of Common Stock as Converted [Line Items]
Schedule of Common Stock as Converted [Line Items]
Schedule of Common Stock as Converted [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares outstanding
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding
Preferred stock, conversion rate into Class A Common Stock
Preferred Stock, Conversion Ratio
Preferred Stock, Conversion Ratio
Common stock, shares outstanding
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Common stock, conversion rate
Common stock, conversion rate
Common Stock, Conversion Rate
As-converted Class A Common Stock
Shares Outstanding As Converted Basis
Shares Outstanding As Converted Basis
Legal Matters
Legal Matters and Contingencies [Text Block]
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Debt
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Preferred Stock
Preferred Stock [Member]
Series A Preferred Stock
Series A Preferred Stock [Member]
U.K.& I preferred stock
Europe preferred stock
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Preferred stock, par value
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Preferred stock, shares authorized
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized
Preferred stock, shares issued
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued
Common stock, par value
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common stock, shares authorized
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Common stock, shares issued
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Retrospective Responsibility Plan [Abstract]
Retrospective Responsibility Plan [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Right to Recover for Covered Losses
Right to Recover for Covered Losses [Member]
Right to Recover for Covered Losses [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
VE territory covered loss, maximum amount of loss to allow adjustment of conversion rate during six-month period
VE Covered Loss, Maximum Amount of Loss to Allow Adjustment of Conversion Rate during Six-month Period
VE Covered Loss, Protection from the Plan Relating to Liabilities where the Claim Relates to Inter-regional Multilateral Interchange Fee Rates
Recovery through conversion rate adjustment
Recovery Through Conversion Rate Adjustment
Recovery Through Conversion Rate Adjustment
Preferred stock, conversion ratio
Preferred Stock and Right to Recover for Covered Losses [Roll Forward]
Preferred Stock and Right to Recover for Covered Losses [Roll Forward]
Preferred Stock and Right to Recover for Covered Losses [Roll Forward]
Preferred stock, beginning
Preferred Stock, Value, Issued
Preferred stock, ending
Right to recover for covered losses, beginning
Right to Recover for Covered Losses
Right to Recover for Covered Losses
VE territory covered losses incurred
VE Territory Covered Losses Incurred
VE Territory Covered Losses Incurred
Right to recover for covered losses, ending
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award
Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block]
Settlement Guarantee Management [Abstract]
Disclosure - Settlement Guarantee Management [Abstract]
Cash Collateral Received - Off Balance Sheet
Cash Collateral Received - Off Balance Sheet
Cash Collateral Received - Off Balance Sheet
Cash equivalents
Customer Collateral Assets, Including Collateral Held by Subsidiary
Customer Collateral Assets, Including Collateral Held by Subsidiary
Pledged securities at market value
Pledged securities at market value collateral
Pledged securities at market value collateral.
Letters of credit
Letters of credit collateral
Letters of credit collateral.
Guarantees
Guarantees collateral
Guarantees collateral.
Total
Collateral Assets
Collateral Assets
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Liability Class [Axis]
Liability Class [Axis]
Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain]
Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain]
Foreign exchange derivative instruments
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Cash equivalents and restricted cash:
Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash [Member]
Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash [Member]
Investment securities:
Investments [Member]
Other current and non-current assets [Member]
Other current and non-current assets [Member]
Other current and non-current assets [Member]
Accrued liabilities:
Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Components [Axis]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain]
Level 1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Level 2
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Asset Class [Axis]
Asset Class [Axis]
Asset Class [Domain]
Asset Class [Domain]
Money market funds
Money Market Funds [Member]
Marketable equity securities
Equity Securities [Member]
U.S. Treasury securities
US Treasury Securities [Member]
U.S. government-sponsored debt securities
US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]
Cash equivalents and restricted cash:
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure
Marketable equity securities
Debt Securities, Trading, and Equity Securities, FV-NI
Investment securities, available-for-sale:
Available-for-sale Securities
Derivative Asset
Derivative Asset
Total
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Liabilities
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]
Accrued Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
Accrued Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
Total
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
Fair Value, Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount
Fair Value, Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Measurement Basis [Axis]
Measurement Basis [Axis]
Fair Value Measurement [Domain]
Fair Value Measurement [Domain]
Portion at Fair Value Measurement
Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Estimated Fair Value
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Senior Notes
Senior Notes [Member]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Minimum
Minimum [Member]
Maximum
Maximum [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities
Non-marketable equity investments
Other Investment Not Readily Marketable, Fair Value
Equity Securities, FV-NI, Unrealized Gain (Loss)
Equity Securities, FV-NI, Unrealized Gain (Loss)
Realized Gain (Loss) on Marketable Securities, Cost Method Investments, and Other Investments
Equity Securities, FV-NI, Realized Gain (Loss)
Available-for-sale investment securities, stated maturities
Available-for-sale Securities, Stated Maturity
Available-for-sale Securities, Stated Maturity
Long-term Debt, Fair Value
Long-term Debt, Fair Value
Long-term Debt
Long-term Debt
Conversion of Stock [Table]
Conversion of Stock [Table]
Conversion of Stock [Line Items]
Conversion of Stock [Line Items]
Effective price per share (in USD per share)
Share Reduction Price Paid Per Share VE Territory Covered Losses Recovery
Share Reduction Price Paid Per Share VE Territory Covered Losses Recovery
Recovery Through Conversion Rate Adjustment
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table]
Product and Service [Axis]
Product and Service [Axis]
Product and Service [Domain]
Product and Service [Domain]
Service revenues
Service [Member]
Data processing revenues
Data Processing Revenues [Member]
Data Processing Revenues [Member]
International transaction revenues
International Transaction Revenues [Member]
International Transaction Revenues [Member]
Other revenues
Service, Other [Member]
Client incentives
Client Incentives [Member]
Client Incentives [Member]
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Domain]
Geographical [Domain]
International
Non-US [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net revenues
Revenues
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents Disclosure [Text Block]
Restrictions on Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table]
Restrictions on Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table]
Litigation Status [Axis]
Litigation Status [Axis]
Litigation Status [Domain]
Litigation Status [Domain]
Unsettled
Unsettled [Member]
Unsettled [Member]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Provision for legal matters
Loss Contingency Accrual, Provision
Escrow account
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current
Document - Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document - Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Class A common stock
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Entity Small Business
Entity Small Business
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Document Type
Document Type
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity (Parenthetical) [Abstract]
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity (Parenthetical) [Abstract]
Cash dividends declared and paid, quarterly, per as-converted share
Cash dividends declared and paid, quarterly, per as-converted share
Cash dividends declared and paid, quarterly, per as-converted share
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Table]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Table]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Table]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items]
Weighted-average as-converted common stock used in income allocation
Weighted Average Number Shares Outstanding, As-Converted Basis
Weighted Average Number Shares Outstanding, As-Converted Basis
Common stock equivalents included in the computation of diluted shares outstanding
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements
Common stock equivalents excluded from computation of average dilutive shares outstanding
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Debt
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Domain]
Plan Name [Domain]
Equity Incentive Compensation Plan, 2007
Equity Incentive Compensation Plan, 2007 [Member]
Equity Incentive Compensation Plan, 2007 [Member]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Domain]
Equity Award [Domain]
Non-qualified stock options
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Restricted stock units (“RSUs”)
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Performance-bases shares
Performance Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
Granted
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Recovery Through Conversion Rate Adjustment
As-converted value of preferred stock
Preferred Stock Available to Recover Covered Losses, Value, As-converted
Preferred Stock Available to Recover Covered Losses, Value, As-converted
Book Value of Preferred stock
Right to recover for covered losses
Total recovery for covered losses available, as converted
Preferred Stock Available to Recover Covered Losses, Value, As-converted, Net
Preferred Stock Available to Recover Covered Losses, Value, As-converted, Net
Total recovery for covered losses available, book value
Preferred Stock Available to Recover Covered Losses, Value, Net
Preferred Stock Available to Recover Covered Losses, Value, Net
Share Price
Share Price
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Impact of Adoption of New Revenue Standard
Schedule of Prospective Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements [Table Text Block]
Disaggregation of Revenue
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Activities Related to Territory Covered Losses and Right to Recover for Covered Losses
Schedule of Activities Related to Territory Covered Losses and Right to Recover for Covered Losses [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Activities Related to Territory Covered Losses and Right to Recover for Covered Losses [Table Text Block]
Schedule of As-converted and Book Value of Preferred Stock Available to Recover Europe Covered Losses
Schedule of As-converted and Book Value of Preferred Stock Available to Recover Europe Covered Losses [Table Text Block]
Schedule of As-converted and Book Value of Preferred Stock Available to Recover Europe Covered Losses [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Member]
Settled Litigation
Settled Litigation [Member]
Threatened Litigation
Threatened Litigation [Member]
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Domain]
Litigation Case [Domain]
U.K. Merchant Litigation
U.K. Merchant Litigation [Member]
U.K. Merchant Litigation [Member]
Number of plaintiffs
Loss Contingency, Number of Plaintiffs
Number of claims settled
Loss Contingency, Claims Settled, Number
Merchants with outstanding claims
Loss Contingency, Pending Claims, Number
Loss Contingency Accrual [Roll Forward]
Loss Contingency Accrual [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period
Loss Contingency Accrual
Loss Contingency Accrual, Payments
Loss Contingency Accrual, Payments
Balance at end of period
Interchange Rate, Card-Not-Present, Credit
Interchange Rate, Card-Not-Present, Credit
Interchange Rate, Card-Not-Present, Credit
Interchange Rate, Card-Not-Present, Debit
Interchange Rate, Card-Not-Present, Debit
Interchange Rate, Card-Not-Present, Debit
Interchange Rate, Card Present, Credit
Interchange Rate, Card Present, Credit
Interchange Rate, Card Present, Credit
Interchange Rate, Card Present, Debit
Interchange Rate, Card Present, Debit
Interchange Rate, Card Present, Debit
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Forecast
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Effective income tax rate reconciliation, percent
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Income tax provision
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Federal statutory income tax rate, percent
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent
Tax cuts and jobs act of 2017, incomplete accounting, deferred tax liability, provisional income tax (expense) benefit
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Liability, Provisional Income Tax (Expense) Benefit
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Liability, Provisional Income Tax( Expense) Benefit
Tax cuts and jobs act of 2017, incomplete accounting, transition tax accumulated foreign earnings, provisional income tax expense (benefit)
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Transition Tax for Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Transition Tax for Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Increase in unrecognized tax benefits
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease)
Fair Value Measurements and Investments
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Operating Activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Net income
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Client incentives (Note 2)
Amortization of client incentives
The net change in client incentives due to amortization or adjustments recognized on the consolidated statements of operations.
Share-based compensation (Note 11)
Share-based Compensation
Depreciation and amortization of property, equipment, technology and intangible assets
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Right to recover for covered losses recorded in equity (Note 4)
VE Territory Covered Losses Incurred, Post Acquisition
VE Territory Covered Losses Incurred, Post Acquisition
Other
Other Noncash Income (Expense)
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Settlement receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Settlement Receivable
The net change during the reporting period in settlement receivable.
Accounts receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable
Client incentives
Increase (Decrease) in Client Incentives
The net change in client incentives during the period.
Other assets
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets
Accounts payable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable
Settlement payable
Increase (Decrease) in Settlement payable
The net change during the reporting period in settlement payable.
Accrued and other liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities and Other Operating Liabilities
Accrued litigation (Note 13)
Increase Decrease in Accrued litigation
Litigation payments made during the period.
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Investing Activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Purchases of property, equipment and technology
Payments to Acquire Productive Assets
Investment securities:
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Abstract]
Purchases
Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities
Proceeds from maturities and sales
Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Debt Securities, Available-for-sale
Purchases of / contributions to other investments
Payments to Acquire Other Investments
Net cash used in investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Financing Activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Repurchase of class A common stock (Note 9)
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Repayments of long-term debt
Repayments of Long-term Debt
Dividends paid (Note 9)
Payments of Dividends
Cash proceeds from issuance of common stock under employee equity plans
Proceeds from Stock Plans
Restricted stock and performance-based shares settled in cash for taxes
Payments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation
Net cash used in financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents
Increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect
Cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents at beginning of period (Note 3)
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents
Cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents at end of period (Note 3)
Supplemental Disclosure
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Income taxes paid, net of refunds
Income Taxes Paid, Net
Interest payments on debt (Note 6)
Interest Paid, Including Capitalized Interest, Operating and Investing Activities
Accruals related to purchases of property, equipment and technology
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid
Earnings Per Share
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]
Share-based Compensation
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Table]
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Table]
Accumulated Income
Retained Earnings [Member]
Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis]
Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis]
Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain]
Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain]
Impact of the New Revenue Standard
Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member]
Results Under Prior Revenue Standard
Calculated under Revenue Guidance in Effect before Topic 606 [Member]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Accounting Standards Update 2014-09
Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member]
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items]
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items]
Operating Expenses
Operating Expenses [Abstract]
Marketing
Marketing and Advertising Expense
Professional fees
Professional Fees
General and administrative
General and Administrative Expense
Total operating expenses
Costs and Expenses
Operating income
Operating Income (Loss)
Income before income taxes
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest
Net income
Assets
Assets [Abstract]
Current portion of client incentives
Client Incentives Assets Current
The Company enters into incentive agreements with financial institution customers, merchants, and other business partners designed to build payments volume and to increase product acceptance. The Company capitalizes certain incentive payments under these agreements related to signing or renewing long-term contracts in instances where the Company receives a performance commitment, from the customer, to generate a substantial portion of its credit or debit card payments volume on Visa branded products for an agreed upon period of time. Incentives are accrued based on management's estimate of the customers' performance according to the provisions in the related agreements. These accruals are regularly reviewed and estimates of performance are adjusted as appropriate. Capitalized amounts are amortized and the Company's estimated obligations under these agreements are primarily charged as a reduction of operating revenue over the period of benefit.
Client incentives
Client Incentives Assets, Noncurrent
Client incentives which are expected to be recorded as a reduction to operating revenues after one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer.
Liabilities
Liabilities [Abstract]
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Client incentives
Client Incentives Liabilities, Current
The Company enters into incentive agreements with financial institution customers, merchants, and other business partners designed to build payments volume and to increase product acceptance. Incentives are accrued based on management's estimate of the customers' performance according to the provisions in the related agreements. These accruals are regularly reviewed and estimates of performance are adjusted as appropriate.
Other liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent
Accrued liabilities
Accrued Liabilities, Current
Equity
Equity [Abstract]
Accumulated income
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Consolidation and basis of presentation
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Schedule of Stock by Class
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block]
Effect of VE Territory Covered Losses Recovery on the Company Repurchasing its Common Stock
Effect of VE Territory Covered Losses Recovery on the Company Repurchasing its Common Stock [Table Text Block]
Effect of VE Territory Covered Losses Recovery on the Company Repurchasing its Common Stock [Table Text Block]
Share Repurchase Program Disclosure
Share Repurchase Program Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Share Repurchase Program Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues
Revenues [Abstract]
Personnel
Labor and Related Expense
Network and processing
Communications and Information Technology
Depreciation and amortization
Litigation provision (Note 13)
Loss Contingency, Loss in Period
Total operating expenses
Operating income
Non-operating Income (Expense)
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract]
Interest expense
Interest Income (Expense), Net
Other
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Total non-operating expense
Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Income before income taxes
Income tax provision (Note 12)
Net income
Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Basic weighted-average shares outstanding (in shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding (in shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Customer collateral assets
Customer collateral assets
The Company holds cash deposits and other noncash assets 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. Noncash collateral assets are held on behalf of the Company by a third party and are not recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheet.
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Investment securities:
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Securities, Available-for-sale, Adjustment, after Tax [Abstract]
Net unrealized gain (loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Securities, Available-for-Sale, Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax
Income tax effect
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Securities, Available-for-Sale, Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax
Reclassification adjustment for net (gain) loss realized in net income
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, before Tax
Income tax effect
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Tax
Defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans:
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax [Abstract]
Net unrealized actuarial gain (loss) and prior service credit (cost)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax
Income tax effect
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax
Derivative instruments classified as cash flow hedges:
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), after Reclassification and Tax [Abstract]
Net unrealized gain (loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax
Income tax effect
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Tax
Reclassification adjustment for net (gain) loss realized in net income
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax
Income tax effect
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Tax
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
U.S. and Europe Retrospective Responsibility Plans
Retrospective Responsibility Plan Disclosure [Text Block]
The disclosure describes the Company's Retrospective Responsibility Plan.
Schedule of Customer Collateral
Schedule of Customer Collateral [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Customer Collateral.
Schedule of Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest expense
Interest Expense, Debt
Number of countries in which entity operates (more than)
Number of Countries in which Entity Operates
Stockholders' Equity Note [Table]
Stockholders Equity Note [Table]
Stockholders Equity Note [Table]
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Stock Repurchase Remaining Authorized Amount
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share
Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share
Dividends, Cash
Dividends, Cash
Settlement Guarantee Management
Guarantees [Text Block]
Guarantees and Product Warranties [Abstract]
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table]
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Maximum Settlement Exposure
Maximum Settlement Exposure
Maximum Settlement Exposure
Average Daily Settlement Exposure
Average Daily Settlement Exposure
Average Daily Settlement Exposure
Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents
Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block]
Revenues
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block]
Class of Treasury Stock [Table]
Class of Treasury Stock [Table]
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Shares repurchased in the open market
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares
Average repurchase price per share
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Average Cost Per Share
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Average Cost Per Share
Total cost
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Stockholders' Equity
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]
Participating securities
Participating Securities [Member]
Participating Securities
Income Allocation - Basic
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic
Net income
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Weighted- Average Shares Outstanding - Basic
Earnings per Share - Basic
Income Allocation - Diluted
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted
Weighted- Average Shares Outstanding - Diluted
Earnings per Share - Diluted
Assets
Restricted cash equivalents—U.S. litigation escrow (Note 3 and Note 4)
Investment securities (Note 5)
Investments
Settlement receivable
Settlement receivable
The Company operates systems for clearing and settling customer payment transactions. Net settlements are generally cleared within one to two business days, resulting in amounts due to and from financial institution customers. These settlement receivables and payables are stated at cost and are presented on a gross basis on the consolidated balance sheets.
Accounts receivable
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Customer collateral (Note 3 and Note 7)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Investment securities (Note 5)
Available-for-sale Securities, Noncurrent
Property, equipment and technology, net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Goodwill
Goodwill
Intangible assets, net
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)
Other assets
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total assets
Assets
Liabilities
Settlement payable
Settlement payable
The Company operates systems for clearing and settling customer payment transactions. Net settlements are generally cleared within one to two business days, resulting in amounts due to and from financial institution customers. These settlement receivables and payables are stated at cost and are presented on a gross basis on the consolidated balance sheets.
Customer collateral (Note 7)
Customer collateral liabilities
The Company holds cash deposits and other noncash assets 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. Noncash collateral assets are held on behalf of the Company by a third party and are not recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheet.
Accrued compensation and benefits
Employee-related Liabilities, Current
Deferred purchase consideration
Business Combination, Additional Cash Consideration Payable, Current
Business Combination, Additional Cash Consideration Payable, Current
Accrued litigation (Note 13)
Estimated Litigation Liability, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Long-term debt (Note 6)
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities
Total liabilities
Liabilities
Equity
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Preferred stock
Common stock
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Right to recover for covered losses (Note 4)
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net:
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Investment securities, available-for-sale
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Adjustment, after Tax
Defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Tax
Derivative instruments classified as cash flow hedges
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Total accumulated other comprehensive income, net
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Total equity
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total liabilities and equity
Liabilities and Equity
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
2017 Notes
2017 Notes [Member]
2017 Notes [Member]
2020 Notes
2020 Notes [Member]
2020 Notes [Member]
September 2022 Notes
September 2022 Notes [Member]
September 2022 Notes [Member]
2022 Notes
2022 Notes [Member]
2022 Notes [Member]
2025 Notes
2025 Notes [Member]
2025 Notes [Member]
2027 Notes
2027 Notes [Member]
2027 Notes [Member]
2035 Notes
2035 Notes [Member]
2035 Notes [Member]
2045 Notes
2045 Notes [Member]
2045 Notes [Member]
2047 Notes
2047 Notes [Member]
2047 Notes [Member]
Principal Amount, noncurrent
Long-term Debt, Gross
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net
Effective Interest Rate (percent)
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity [Abstract]
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity [Abstract]
Common Stock
Common Stock [Member]
Additional Paid-in Capital
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance (in shares)
Shares, Outstanding
Beginning balance
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Comprehensive income
Adoption of new accounting standards (Note 1)
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Adoption, Quantification
VE territory covered losses incurred (Note 4)
Recovery through conversion rate adjustment (Note 4 and Note 9)
Conversion of class C common stock upon sales into public market (in shares)
Conversion of Stock, Shares Converted
Vesting of restricted stock and performance-based shares (in shares)
Stock Issued and Vested During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock and Perfomance-based Stock Awards
Stock Issued and Vested During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock and Perfomance-based Stock Awards
Share-based compensation, net of forfeitures (Note 11)
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition
Restricted stock and performance-based shares settled in cash for taxes (in shares)
Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation
Restricted stock and performance-based shares settled in cash for taxes
Adjustments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation
Cash proceeds from issuance of common stock under employee equity plans (in shares)
StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockPurchasePlansandStockOptionsExercised
Stock Issued During Period Shares Employee Stock Purchase Plans and Stock Options Exercised
Cash proceeds from issuance of common stock under employee equity plans
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Stock Purchase Plans and Stock Options Exercised
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Stock Purchase Plans and Stock Options Exercised
Cash dividends declared and paid, at a quarterly amount of $0.25 per as-converted share (Note 9)
Repurchase of class A common stock (Note 9) (in shares)
Repurchase of class A common stock (Note 9)
Ending balance (in shares)
Ending balance
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]