Vishay Intertechnology (VSH) 10-Q 6 May 14 2014 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014	Jun. 29, 2013	2-May-14	2-May-14
			Common Stock [Member]	Class B Convertible Common Stock [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	'	135,319,976	12,129,227
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q1	'	'	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'	'
Document Period End Date	29-Mar-14	'	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY INC	'	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000103730	'	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'	'	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'Yes	'	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'	'	'
Entity Public Float	'	$1,835,000,000	'	'

Consolidated_Condensed_Balance

Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets (USD $)	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$661,457	$640,348
Short-term investments	488,659	511,231
Accounts receivable, net	294,544	274,083
Inventories:	'	'
Finished goods	123,082	109,617
Work in process	197,316	197,600
Raw materials	131,632	125,491
Total inventories	452,030	432,708
Deferred income taxes	21,488	21,716
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	106,040	100,594
Total current assets	2,024,218	1,980,680
Property and equipment, at cost:	'	'
Land	93,609	93,685
Buildings and improvements	566,132	560,418
Machinery and equipment	2,361,115	2,340,778
Construction in progress	77,119	95,278
Allowance for depreciation	-2,192,797	-2,163,540
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, Total	905,178	926,619
Goodwill	43,117	43,132
Other intangible assets, net	126,341	129,951
Other assets	154,274	156,757
Total assets	3,253,128	3,237,139
Current liabilities:	'	'
Notes payable to banks	22	2
Trade accounts payable	155,709	163,894
Payroll and related expenses	121,204	120,997
Other accrued expenses	152,705	146,670
Income taxes	20,047	17,502
Total current liabilities	449,687	449,065
Long-term debt less current portion	361,948	364,911
Deferred income taxes	157,213	157,640
Other liabilities	101,005	99,426
Accrued pension and other postretirement costs	286,730	287,901
Total liabilities	1,356,583	1,358,943
Vishay stockholders' equity	'	'
Common stock	13,532	13,520
Class B convertible common stock	1,213	1,213
Capital in excess of par value	2,054,543	2,054,087
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings	-240,742	-257,698
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	62,705	61,634
Total Vishay stockholders' equity	1,891,251	1,872,756
Noncontrolling interests	5,294	5,440
Total equity	1,896,545	1,878,196
Total liabilities and equity	$3,253,128	$3,237,139

Consolidated_Condensed_Stateme

Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations [Abstract]	'	'
Net revenues	$602,378	$554,254
Costs of products sold	457,095	417,520
Gross profit	145,283	136,734
Selling, general, and administrative expenses	96,307	91,129
Restructuring and severance costs	6,404	0
Operating income	42,572	45,605
Other income (expense):	'	'
Interest expense	-5,980	-5,486
Other	1,312	115
Nonoperating Income (Expense), Total	-4,668	-5,371
Income before taxes	37,904	40,234
Income tax expense	11,940	11,093
Net earnings	25,964	29,141
Less: net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests	154	210
Net earnings attributable to Vishay stockholders	$25,810	$28,931
Basic earnings per share attributable to Vishay stockholders	$0.17	$0.20
Diluted earnings per share attributable to Vishay stockholders	$0.17	$0.19
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic	147,557	143,591
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted	152,556	150,632
Cash dividends per share	$0.06	$0

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'
Net earnings	$25,964	$29,141
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustment	-960	-25,121
Pension and postretirement actuarial items	1,503	3,231
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	528	430
Other comprehensive income (loss)	1,071	-21,460
Comprehensive income	27,035	7,681
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	154	210
Comprehensive income attributable to Vishay stockholders	$26,881	$7,471

Consolidated_Condensed_Stateme1

Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Operating activities	'	'
Net earnings	$25,964	$29,141
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	43,355	41,346
(Gain) loss on disposal of property and equipment	-60	137
Accretion of interest on convertible debentures	958	886
Inventory write-offs for obsolescence	4,516	4,213
Other	1,804	2,337
Net change in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of businesses acquired	-46,583	-54,669
Net cash provided by operating activities	29,954	23,391
Investing activities	'	'
Capital expenditures	-19,347	-20,181
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	1,197	769
Purchase of short-term investments	-28,423	-242,501
Maturity of short-term investments	50,400	181,631
Other investing activities	459	627
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	4,286	-79,655
Financing activities	'	'
Principal payments on long-term debt and capital leases	-7	-8
Net proceeds (payments) on revolving credit lines	-4,000	1,000
Net changes in short-term borrowings	20	14
Excess tax benefit from RSUs vested	0	436
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	-300	0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	-13,134	1,442
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	3	-9,993
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	21,109	-64,815
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	640,348	697,595
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	661,457	632,780
Common Stock [Member]	'	'
Financing activities	'	'
Dividends and Interest Paid	-8,119	0
Class B Convertible Common Stock [Member]	'	'
Financing activities	'	'
Dividends and Interest Paid	($728)	$0

Consolidated_Condensed_Stateme2

Consolidated Condensed Statement of Equity (USD $)	Common Stock	Class B Convertible Common Stock	Capital In Excess of Par Value	Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Total Vishay Stockholders' Equity	Noncontrolling Interest	Total
In Thousands
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	$13,520	$1,213	$2,054,087	($257,698)	$61,634	$1,872,756	$5,440	$1,878,196
Net earnings	0	0	0	25,810	0	25,810	154	25,964
Other comprehensive income	0	0	0	0	1,071	1,071	0	1,071
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	0	0	0	0	0	0	-300	-300
Restricted stock issuances	12	0	-384	0	0	-372	0	-372
Dividends declared	0	0	7	-8,854	0	-8,847	0	-8,847
Stock compensation expense	0	0	941	0	0	941	0	941
Tax effects of stock plan	0	0	-108	0	0	-108	0	-108
Balance at Mar. 29, 2014	$13,532	$1,213	$2,054,543	($240,742)	$62,705	$1,891,251	$5,294	$1,896,545

Consolidated_Condensed_Stateme3

Consolidated Condensed Statement of Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Consolidated Condensed Statement of Equity [Abstract]	'
Restricted stock issuances (in shares)	117,895
Stock options exercised (in shares)	0
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid	$0.06

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	Note 1 – Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements of Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. ("Vishay" or the "Company") have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and therefore do not include all information and footnotes necessary for presentation of financial position, results of operations, and cash flows required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("GAAP") for complete financial statements. The information furnished reflects all normal recurring adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair summary of the financial position, results of operations, and cash flows for the interim periods presented.  The financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements filed with the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.  The results of operations for the fiscal quarter ended March 29, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.
	The Company reports interim financial information for 13-week periods beginning on a Sunday and ending on a Saturday, except for the first fiscal quarter, which always begins on January 1, and the fourth fiscal quarter, which always ends on December 31.  The four fiscal quarters in 2014 end on March 29, 2014, June 28, 2014, September 27, 2014, and December 31, 2014, respectively.  The four fiscal quarters in 2013 ended on March 30, 2013, June 29, 2013, September 28, 2013, and December 31, 2013, respectively.
	Reclassifications
	Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current financial statements presentation.

Restructuring_and_Related_Acti

Restructuring and Related Activities	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Restructuring and Related Activities	'
	Note 2 – Restructuring and Related Activities
	The Company places a strong emphasis on controlling its costs.
	Historically, the Company's primary cost reduction technique was through the transfer of production to the extent possible from high-labor-cost countries, such as the United States and Western Europe, to lower-labor-cost countries, such as the Czech Republic, Hungary, Israel, India, Malaysia, Mexico, the People's Republic of China, and the Philippines. Between 2001 and 2009, the Company recorded, in the consolidated statements of operations, restructuring and severance costs and related asset write-downs in order to reduce its cost structure going forward.
	The Company also incurred significant costs to restructure and integrate acquired businesses, which was included in the cost of the acquisitions under then-applicable GAAP.
	The Company did not initiate any new restructuring projects in the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, or 2010.
	On October 28, 2013, the Company announced various cost reduction programs as part of its continuous efforts to improve efficiency and operating performance. The cash costs of these programs, primarily severance, are expected to be approximately $32,000.  Complete implementation of all of the programs is expected to occur before the end of the first fiscal quarter of 2016.  Many of the severance costs will be recognized ratably over the required stay periods.
	The following table summarizes restructuring and related expenses which were recognized during the fiscal quarter ended March 29, 2014 and reported on a separate line in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations:
	MOSFETs Enhanced Competitiveness Program	$	1,727
	Voluntary Separation / Retirement Program		4,677
	Total	$	6,404
	MOSFETs Enhanced Competitiveness Program
	Over a period of approximately 2 years and in a period of discrete steps, the manufacture of wafers for a substantial share of products will be transferred into a more cost-efficient fab. As a consequence, certain other manufacturing currently occurring in-house will be transferred to third-party foundries.
	The total severance costs associated with these initiatives are expected to be approximately $16,000. Employees generally must remain with the Company during the production transfer period. Accordingly, the Company will accrue these severance costs ratably over the respective employees' remaining service periods.
	The Company recognized $1,727 of restructuring and related expenses in a separate line in the accompanying consolidated condensed statement of operations during the fiscal quarter ended March 29, 2014.
	The following table summarizes the activity to date related to this program:
	Expense recorded in the fourth fiscal quarter of 2013	$	2,328
	Cash paid		(267	)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	2,061
	Expense		1,727
	Cash paid		(113	)
	Balance at March 29, 2014	$	3,675
	Severance benefits are generally paid in a lump sum at cessation of employment.  The current portion of the liability is $908 and is included in other accrued expenses in the accompanying consolidated condensed balance sheets.  The non-current portion of the liability is included in other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated condensed balance sheets.
	Voluntary Separation / Retirement Program
	The voluntary separation / early retirement program was offered to employees worldwide who were eligible because they met job classification, age, and years-of-service criteria as of October 31, 2013. The program benefits vary by country and job classification, but generally include a cash loyalty bonus based on years of service. All responses were originally due, subject to applicable rescission rights, on or before March 28, 2014.  The deadline for responses has been extended as the Company had several volunteers with whom the Company did not execute agreements by the original deadline.
	These employees generally were not aligned with any particular segment. The effective separation / retirement date for most employees who accepted the offer is June 30, 2014 or earlier, with a few exceptions to allow for a short transition period.
	The Company recorded $4,677 of restructuring and related expenses in a separate line in the accompanying consolidated condensed statement of operations related to this program during the fiscal quarter ended March 29, 2014.
	The following table summarizes the activity to date related to this program:
	Expense recorded in the fourth fiscal quarter of 2013	$	486
	Cash paid		(98	)
	Foreign currency translation		3
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	391
	Expense		4,677
	Cash paid		(1,791	)
	Foreign currency translation		(3	)
	Balance at March 29, 2014	$	3,274
	The payment terms vary by country, but generally are paid in a lump sum at cessation of employment.  The entire amount of the liability is considered current and is included in other accrued expenses in the accompanying consolidated condensed balance sheets.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	Note 3 – Income Taxes
	The provision for income taxes consists of provisions for federal, state, and foreign income taxes.  The effective tax rates for the periods ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013 reflect the Company's expected tax rate on reported income from continuing operations before income tax and tax adjustments. The Company operates in a global environment with significant operations in various jurisdictions outside the United States.  Accordingly, the consolidated income tax rate is a composite rate reflecting the Company's earnings and the applicable tax rates in the various jurisdictions where the Company operates.
	As a result of the retroactive enactment of the American Taxpayer Act of 2012, which was signed into law on January 2, 2013, the Company recorded one-time tax benefits of $1,330 in the consolidated condensed statement of operations for the fiscal quarter ended March 30, 2013.
	During the three fiscal months ended March 29, 2014, the liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits decreased by $2,129 on a net basis, principally due to payments offset by increases for tax positions taken in prior periods and interest.

LongTerm_Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Long-Term Debt [Abstract]	'
Long-Term Debt	'
	Note 4 – Long-Term Debt
	Long-term debt consists of the following:
		March 29,			December 31,
		2014			2013
	Credit facility	$	110,000		$	114,000
	Exchangeable unsecured notes, due 2102		38,642			38,642
	Convertible senior debentures, due 2040		102,367			101,846
	Convertible senior debentures, due 2041		52,519			52,264
	Convertible senior debentures, due 2042		58,420			58,159
			361,948			364,911
	Less current portion		-			-
		$	361,948		$	364,911
	Convertible Senior Debentures
	Vishay currently has three issuances of convertible senior debentures outstanding with generally congruent terms.  The quarterly cash dividend program of the Company results in adjustments to the conversion rate and effective conversion price for each issuance of the Company's convertible senior debentures effective as of the ex-dividend date of each cash dividend.
	The following table summarizes some key facts and terms regarding the three series of outstanding convertible senior debentures following the adjustment made to the conversion rate of the debentures on the ex-dividend date of the March 27, 2014 dividend payment:
		Due 2040			Due 2041			Due 2042
	Issuance date	9-Nov-10			13-May-11			31-May-12
	Maturity date	15-Nov-40			15-May-41			1-Jun-42
	Principal amount	$	275,000		$	150,000		$	150,000
	Cash coupon rate (per annum)		2.25	%		2.25	%		2.25	%
	Nonconvertible debt borrowing rate at issuance (per annum)		8	%		8.375	%		7.5	%
	Conversion rate effective February 27, 2014 (per $1 principal amount)		72.3396			52.7896			85.0541
	Effective conversion price effective February 27, 2014 (per share)	$	13.82		$	18.94		$	11.76
	130% of the conversion price (per share)	$	17.97		$	24.62		$	15.29
	Call date	20-Nov-20			20-May-21			7-Jun-22
	GAAP requires an issuer to separately account for the liability and equity components of the instrument in a manner that reflects the issuer's nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest costs are recognized in subsequent periods.  The resulting discount on the debt is amortized as non-cash interest expense in future periods.
	The carrying values of the liability and equity components of the convertible debentures are reflected in the Company's consolidated condensed balance sheets as follows:
		Principal amount of			Unamortized discount			Embedded derivative			Carrying value of liability component			Equity component - net carrying value
		the debentures
	29-Mar-14
	Due 2040	$	275,000			(173,169	)		536		$	102,367		$	110,094
	Due 2041	$	150,000			(97,844	)		363		$	52,519		$	62,246
	Due 2042	$	150,000			(91,797	)		217		$	58,420		$	57,874
	Total	$	575,000		$	(362,810	)	$	1,116		$	213,306		$	230,214
	31-Dec-13
	Due 2040	$	275,000			(173,645	)		491		$	101,846		$	110,094
	Due 2041	$	150,000			(98,085	)		349		$	52,264		$	62,246
	Due 2042	$	150,000			(92,038	)		197		$	58,159		$	57,874
	Total	$	575,000		$	(363,768	)	$	1,037		$	212,269		$	230,214
	Interest is payable on the debentures semi-annually at the cash coupon rate; however, the remaining debt discount is being amortized as additional non-cash interest expense using an effective annual interest rate equal to the Company's estimated nonconvertible debt borrowing rate at the time of issuance.  In addition to ordinary interest, contingent interest will accrue in certain circumstances relating to the trading price of the debentures and under certain other circumstances beginning ten years subsequent to issuance.
	Interest expense related to the debentures is reflected on the consolidated condensed statements of operations for the fiscal quarters ended:
		Contractual			Non-cash amortization of debt discount			Non-cash amortization of deferred financing costs			Non-cash change in value of derivative liability			Total interest expense related to the debentures
		coupon interest
	29-Mar-14
	Due 2040	$	1,547			476			22			45		$	2,090
	Due 2041	$	844			241			11			14		$	1,110
	Due 2042	$	844			241			13			20		$	1,118
	Total	$	3,235		$	958		$	46		$	79		$	4,318
	30-Mar-13
	Due 2040	$	1,547			440			22			(147	)	$	1,862
	Due 2041	$	844			222			12			(88	)	$	990
	Due 2042	$	844			224			13			(73	)	$	1,008
	Total	$	3,235		$	886		$	47		$	(308	)	$	3,860
	Exchangeable Unsecured Notes, due 2102
	Quarterly cash dividends do not result in an adjustment to the put/call rate of the Company's exchangeable unsecured notes due 2102; therefore, the cash dividend payment in the first fiscal quarter of 2014 had no effect on the exchangeable notes due 2102.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'
	Note 5 – Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	The cumulative balance of each component of other comprehensive income (loss) and the income tax effects allocated to each component are as follows:
		Pension and other post-retirement actuarial items			Currency translation adjustment			Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities			Total
	Balance at January 1, 2014	$	(129,918	)	$	190,998			554		$	61,634
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications		-			(960	)		812		$	(148	)
	Tax effect		-			-			(284	)	$	(284	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications, net of tax		-			(960	)		528		$	(432	)
	Amounts reclassified out of AOCI		2,244			-			-		$	2,244
	Tax effect		(741	)		-			-		$	(741	)
	Amounts reclassified out of AOCI, net of tax		1,503			-			-		$	1,503
	Net comprehensive income	$	1,503		$	(960	)	$	528		$	1,071
	Balance at March 29, 2014	$	(128,415	)	$	190,038		$	1,082		$	62,705
	Reclassifications of pension and other post-retirement actuarial items out of AOCI are included in the computation of net periodic benefit cost.  (See Note 6 for further information).
	Other comprehensive income (loss) includes Vishay's proportionate share of other comprehensive income (loss) of nonconsolidated subsidiaries accounted for under the equity method.

Pensions_and_Other_Postretirem

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract]	'
Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits	'
	Note 6 – Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits
	The Company maintains various retirement benefit plans.
	The following table shows the components of the net periodic pension cost for the first fiscal quarters of 2014 and 2013 for the Company's defined benefit pension plans:
		Fiscal quarter ended						Fiscal quarter ended
		29-Mar-14						30-Mar-13
		U.S. Plans			Non-U.S. Plans			U.S. Plans			Non-U.S. Plans
	Net service cost	$	-		$	824		$	-		$	885
	Interest cost		3,834			2,181			3,467			2,042
	Expected return on plan assets		(4,058	)		(525	)		(4,976	)		(529	)
	Amortization of prior service cost (credit)		(23	)		1			244			(9	)
	Amortization of losses		1,810			687			3,958			839
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	1,563		$	3,168		$	2,693		$	3,228
	The following table shows the components of the net periodic benefit cost for the first fiscal quarters of 2014 and 2013 for the Company's other postretirement benefit plans:
		Fiscal quarter ended						Fiscal quarter ended
		29-Mar-14						30-Mar-13
		U.S. Plans			Non-U.S. Plans			U.S. Plans			Non-U.S. Plans
	Service cost	$	29		$	79		$	28		$	74
	Interest cost		88			63			78			64
	Amortization of prior service (credit)		(206	)		-			(200	)		-
	Amortization of losses (gains)		(35	)		10			1			-
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	(124	)	$	152		$	(93	)	$	138

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Stock-Based Compensation	'
	Note 7 – Stock-Based Compensation
	The Company has various stockholder-approved programs which allow for the grant of stock-based compensation to officers, employees, and non-employee directors of the Company.
	The amount of compensation cost related to stock-based payment transactions is measured based on the grant-date fair value of the equity instruments issued.  The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.  The Company determines compensation cost for restricted stock units ("RSUs"), phantom stock units, and restricted stock based on the grant-date fair value of the underlying common stock adjusted for expected dividends paid over the required vesting period for non-participating awards.  Compensation cost is recognized over the period that an officer, employee, or non-employee director provides service in exchange for the award.
	The following table summarizes stock-based compensation expense recognized:
		Fiscal quarters ended
		29-Mar-14			30-Mar-13
	Stock options	$	-		$	12
	Restricted stock units		810			928
	Phantom stock units		131			108
	Total	$	941		$	1,048
	The Company recognizes compensation cost for RSUs that are expected to vest and records cumulative adjustments in the period that the expectation changes.
	The following table summarizes unrecognized compensation cost and the weighted average remaining amortization periods at March 29, 2014 (amortization periods in years):
		Unrecognized Compensation Cost			Weighted Average Remaining Amortization Periods
	Stock options	$	-			0
	Restricted stock units		11,570			1.7
	Phantom stock units		-			0
	Total	$	11,570
	2007 Stock Incentive Plan
	The Company's 2007 Stock Incentive Program (the "2007 Program") permits the grant of up to 3,000,000 shares of restricted stock, unrestricted stock, RSUs, and stock options, to officers, employees, and non-employee directors of the Company.  Such instruments are available for grant until May 22, 2017.
	Stock Options
	In addition to stock options outstanding pursuant to the 2007 Program, during the periods presented, the Company had stock options outstanding under previous stockholder-approved stock option programs.  These programs are more fully described in Note 12 to the Company's consolidated financial statements included in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.  No additional options may be granted pursuant to these programs.
	At December 31, 2013 and March 29, 2014, there were 109,000 options outstanding with a weighted average exercise price of $15.24.  At March 29, 2014, the weighted average remaining contractual life of all outstanding options was 2.98 years.
	At March 29, 2014, there were no unvested options outstanding.
	The pretax aggregate intrinsic value (the difference between the closing stock price on the last trading day of the first fiscal quarter of 2014 of $14.49 per share and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options on March 29, 2014 is $56.  This amount changes based on changes in the market value of the Company's common stock.  During the three fiscal months ended March 29, 2014, no options were exercised.
	Restricted Stock Units
	RSU activity under the 2007 Program as of March 29, 2014 and changes during the three fiscal months then ended are presented below (number of RSUs in thousands):
		Number of RSUs			Weighted Average Grant-date Fair Value per Unit
	Outstanding:
	1-Jan-14		1,059		$	13.4
	Granted		336			13.48
	Vested*		(146	)		15.87
	Cancelled or forfeited		(102	)		17.45
	Outstanding at March 29, 2014		1,147		$	12.75
	Expected to vest at March 29, 2014		760
	_______
	* The number of RSUs vested includes shares that the Company withheld on behalf of employees to satisfy the statutory tax withholding requirements.
	The number of performance-based RSUs that are scheduled to vest on January 1, 2015 is evaluated based on the full achievement of the defined target performance criteria.  The number of performance-based RSUs that are scheduled to vest on January 1, 2016 and January 1, 2017 increases ratably based on the achievement of defined performance criteria between the established target and maximum levels.  RSUs with performance-based vesting criteria are expected to vest as follows (number of RSUs in thousands):
	Vesting Date	Expected to Vest			Not Expected to Vest		Total
	1-Jan-15		-			276		276
	1-Jan-16		111			111		222
	1-Jan-17		192			-		192
	Phantom Stock Plan
	The Company maintains a phantom stock plan for certain senior executives.  The plan authorizes the grant of up to 300,000 phantom stock units to the extent provided for in the Company's employment agreements with such senior executives.  Each phantom stock unit entitles the recipient to receive a share of common stock at the individual's termination of employment or any other future date specified in the applicable employment agreement.  Phantom stock units participate in dividend distribution on the same basis as the Company's common stock and Class B common stock.  Dividend equivalents are issued in the form of additional units of phantom stock.  The phantom stock units are fully vested at all times.
	Phantom stock unit activity under the phantom stock plan as of March 29, 2014 and changes during the three fiscal months then ended are presented below (number of phantom stock units in thousands):
		Number of units			Grant-date Fair Value per Unit
	Outstanding:
	1-Jan-14		107
	Granted		10		$	13.12
	Dividend equivalents issued		1
	Redeemed for common stock		-
	Outstanding at March 29, 2014		118

Segment_Information

Segment Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Segment Information	'
	Note 8 – Segment Information
	Vishay operates, and its chief operating decision maker makes strategic and operating decisions with regards to assessing performance and allocating resources based on, five reporting segments: MOSFETs, Diodes, Optoelectronic Components, Resistors & Inductors, and Capacitors.
	The Company evaluates business segment performance on operating income, exclusive of certain items ("segment operating income").  Only dedicated, direct selling, general, and administrative expenses of the segments are included in the calculation of segment operating income.  The Company's calculation of segment operating income excludes such selling, general, and administrative costs as global operations, sales and marketing, information systems, finance and administration groups, as well as restructuring and severance costs, executive compensation charges (credits), material gains and losses on sales of property, and other items.  Management believes that evaluating segment performance excluding such items is meaningful because it provides insight with respect to intrinsic operating results of the Company.  These items represent reconciling items between segment operating income and consolidated operating income.  Business segment assets are the owned or allocated assets used by each business.
	The following tables set forth business segment information:
		MOSFETs			Diodes			Optoelectronic Components		Resistors & Inductors		Capacitors		Total
	Fiscal quarter ended March 29, 2014:
	Product Sales	$	113,113		$	136,929		$	57,498	$	187,989	$	105,511	$	601,040
	Royalty Revenues		28			-			-		1,310		-	$	1,338
	Total Revenue	$	113,141		$	136,929		$	57,498	$	189,299	$	105,511	$	602,378
	Gross Margin	$	12,617		$	29,765		$	21,237	$	60,120	$	21,544	$	145,283
	Fiscal quarter ended March 30, 2013:
	Product Sales	$	100,846		$	125,112		$	56,226	$	163,928	$	106,162	$	552,274
	Royalty Revenues		42			-			-		1,938		-	$	1,980
	Total Revenue	$	100,888		$	125,112		$	56,226	$	165,866	$	106,162	$	554,254
	Gross Margin	$	12,900		$	27,261		$	19,774	$	52,601	$	24,198	$	136,734
		Fiscal quarters ended
		29-Mar-14			30-Mar-13
	Operating margin reconciliation:
	MOSFETs	$	2,487		$	2,833
	Diodes		23,058			21,389
	Optoelectronic Components		17,404			16,209
	Resistors & Inductors		50,336			44,200
	Capacitors		15,341			18,456
	Restructuring and Severance Costs		(6,404	)		-
	Unallocated Selling, General, and Administrative Expenses		(59,650	)		(57,482	)
	Consolidated Operating Income		42,572		$	45,605

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share	'
	Note 9 – Earnings Per Share
	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to Vishay stockholders (shares in thousands):
		Fiscal quarters ended
		29-Mar-14		30-Mar-13
	Numerator:
	Numerator for basic earnings per share:
	Net earnings	$	25,810	$	28,931
	Adjustment to the numerator for continuing operations and net earnings:
	Interest savings assuming conversion of dilutive convertible and exchangeable notes, net of tax		16		47
	Numerator for diluted earnings per share:
	Net earnings	$	25,826	$	28,978
	Denominator:
	Denominator for basic earnings per share:
	Weighted average shares		147,440		143,484
	Outstanding phantom stock units		117		107
	Adjusted weighted average shares		147,557		143,591
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Convertible and exchangeable debt instruments		4,782		6,663
	Restricted stock units		210		377
	Other		7		1
	Dilutive potential common shares		4,999		7,041
	Denominator for diluted earnings per share:
	Adjusted weighted average shares		152,556		150,632
	Basic earnings per share attributable to Vishay stockholders	$	0.17	$	0.2
	Diluted earnings per share attributable to Vishay stockholders	$	0.17	$	0.19
	Diluted earnings per share for the periods presented do not reflect the following weighted average potential common shares that would have an antidilutive effect or have unsatisfied performance conditions (in thousands):
		Fiscal quarters ended
		29-Mar-14		30-Mar-13
	Convertible and exchangeable notes:
	Convertible Senior Debentures, due 2040		-		19,809
	Convertible Senior Debentures, due 2041		7,897		7,885
	Weighted average employee stock options		77		105
	Weighted average other		114		523
	In periods in which they are dilutive, if the potential common shares related to the exchangeable notes are included in the computation, the related interest savings, net of tax, assuming conversion/exchange is added to the net earnings used to compute earnings per share.
	The Company's convertible debt instruments are only convertible upon the occurrence of certain events.  While none of these events has occurred as of March 29, 2014, certain conditions which could trigger conversion have been deemed to be non-substantive, and accordingly, the Company has always assumed the conversion of these instruments in its diluted earnings per share computation during periods in which they are dilutive.
	At the direction of its Board of Directors, the Company intends, upon conversion, to repay the principal amounts of the convertible senior debentures, due 2040, due 2041, and due 2042, in cash and settle any additional amounts in shares of Vishay common stock. Accordingly, the debentures are included in the diluted earnings per share computation using the "treasury stock method" (similar to options and warrants) rather than the "if converted method" otherwise required for convertible debt.  Under the "treasury stock method," Vishay calculates the number of shares issuable under the terms of the debentures based on the average market price of Vishay common stock during the period, and that number is included in the total diluted shares figure for the period.  If the average market price is less than $13.82, no shares are included in the diluted earnings per share computation for the convertible senior debentures due 2040, if the average market price is less than $18.94, no shares are included in the diluted earnings per share computation for the convertible senior debentures due 2041, and if the average market price is less than $11.76, no shares are included in the diluted earnings per share computation for the convertible senior debentures due 2042.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements	'
	Note 10 – Fair Value Measurements
	The fair value measurement accounting guidance establishes a valuation hierarchy of the inputs used to measure fair value. This hierarchy prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels. The following is a brief description of those three levels:
	Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active.
	Level 3: Unobservable inputs that reflect the Company's own assumptions.
	An asset or liability's classification within the hierarchy is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement. There have been no changes in the classification of any financial instruments within the fair value hierarchy in the periods presented.
	The following table provides the financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value measured on a recurring basis:
		Total			Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
		Fair Value
	March 29, 2014:
	Assets:
	Assets held in rabbi trusts	$	37,280		$	24,254	$	13,026	$	-
	Available for sale securities	$	7,453			7,453		-		-
		$	44,733		$	31,707	$	13,026	$	-
	Liabilities:
	Embedded derivative - convertible debentures due 2040	$	(536	)	$	-	$	-	$	(536	)
	Embedded derivative - convertible debentures due 2041	$	(363	)		-		-		(363	)
	Embedded derivative - convertible debentures due 2042	$	(217	)		-		-		(217	)
		$	(1,116	)	$	-	$	-	$	(1,116	)
	December 31, 2013:
	Assets:
	Assets held in rabbi trusts	$	36,992		$	24,064		12,928	$	-
	Available for sale securities	$	7,356			7,356		-		-
		$	44,348		$	31,420	$	12,928	$	-
	Liabilities:
	Embedded derivative - convertible debentures due 2040	$	(491	)	$	-	$	-	$	(491	)
	Embedded derivative - convertible debentures due 2041	$	(349	)		-		-		(349	)
	Embedded derivative - convertible debentures due 2042	$	(197	)		-		-		(197	)
		$	(1,037	)	$	-	$	-	$	(1,037	)
	The Company maintains non-qualified trusts, referred to as "rabbi" trusts, to fund payments under deferred compensation and non-qualified pension plans. Rabbi trust assets consist primarily of marketable securities, classified as available-for-sale and company-owned life insurance assets.  The marketable securities held in the rabbi trusts are valued using quoted market prices on the last business day of the period. The company-owned life insurance assets are valued in consultation with the Company's insurance brokers using the value of underlying assets of the insurance contracts.  The fair value measurement of the marketable securities held in the rabbi trust is considered a Level 1 measurement and the measurement of the company-owned life insurance assets is considered a Level 2 measurement within the fair value hierarchy.
	The Company holds available for sale investments in debt securities that are intended to fund a portion of its pension and other postretirement benefit obligations outside of the United States.  The investments are valued based on quoted market prices on the last business day of the year.  The fair value measurement of the investments is considered a Level 1 measurement within the fair value hierarchy.
	The convertible senior debentures, due 2040, due 2041, and due 2042, issued by the Company on November 9, 2010, May 13, 2011, and May 31, 2012, respectively, contain embedded derivative features that GAAP requires to be bifurcated and remeasured each reporting period.  Each quarter, the change in the fair value of the embedded derivative features, if any, is recorded in the consolidated condensed statements of operations.  The Company uses a derivative valuation model to derive the value of the embedded derivative features.  Key inputs into this valuation model are the Company's current stock price, risk-free interest rates, the stock dividend yield, the stock volatility, and the debentures' credit spread over LIBOR. The first three aforementioned inputs are based on observable market data and are considered Level 2 inputs while the last two aforementioned inputs are unobservable and thus require management's judgment and are considered Level 3 inputs.  The fair value measurement is considered a Level 3 measurement within the fair value hierarchy.
	The fair value of the long-term debt, excluding the derivative liabilities, at March 29, 2014 and December 31, 2013 is approximately $797,100 and $750,700, respectively, compared to its carrying value, excluding the derivative liabilities, of $360,832, and $363,874, respectively.  The Company estimates the fair value of its long-term debt using a combination of quoted market prices for similar financing arrangements and expected future payments discounted at risk-adjusted rates, which are considered Level 2 inputs.
	At March 29, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company's short-term investments were comprised of time deposits with financial institutions that have maturities that exceed 90 days from the date of acquisition; however they all mature within one year from the respective balance sheet dates.  The short-term investments are accounted for as held-to-maturity debt instruments, at amortized cost, which approximates their fair value.  The investments are funded with excess cash not expected to be needed for operations prior to maturity; therefore, the Company believes it has the intent and ability to hold the short-term investments until maturity.  At each reporting date, the Company performs an evaluation to determine if any unrealized losses are other-than-temporary.  No other-than-temporary impairments have been recognized on these securities, and there are no unrecognized holding gains or losses for these securities during the periods presented.  There have been no transfers to or from the held-to-maturity classification.  All decreases in the account balance are due to returns of principal at the securities' maturity dates.  Interest on the securities is recognized as interest income when earned.
	At March 29, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company's cash and cash equivalents were comprised of demand deposits, time deposits with maturities of three months or less when purchased, and money market funds.  The Company estimates the fair value of its cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments using level 2 inputs.  Based on the current interest rates for similar investments with comparable credit risk and time to maturity, the fair value of the Company's cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments approximate the carrying amounts reported in the consolidated condensed balance sheets.
	The Company's financial instruments also include accounts receivable, short-term notes payable, and accounts payable.  The carrying amounts for these financial instruments reported in the consolidated condensed balance sheets approximate their fair values.

Basis_of_Presentation_Policies

Basis of Presentation (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]	'
Fiscal Period, Policy	'
	The Company reports interim financial information for 13-week periods beginning on a Sunday and ending on a Saturday, except for the first fiscal quarter, which always begins on January 1, and the fourth fiscal quarter, which always ends on December 31.  The four fiscal quarters in 2014 end on March 29, 2014, June 28, 2014, September 27, 2014, and December 31, 2014, respectively.  The four fiscal quarters in 2013 ended on March 30, 2013, June 29, 2013, September 28, 2013, and December 31, 2013, respectively.

Income_Taxes_Policies

Income Taxes (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'
Effective Income tax Rate Description	'
	The provision for income taxes consists of provisions for federal, state, and foreign income taxes.  The effective tax rates for the periods ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013 reflect the Company's expected tax rate on reported income from continuing operations before income tax and tax adjustments. The Company operates in a global environment with significant operations in various jurisdictions outside the United States.  Accordingly, the consolidated income tax rate is a composite rate reflecting the Company's earnings and the applicable tax rates in the various jurisdictions where the Company operates.

StockBased_Compensation_Polici

Stock-Based Compensation (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	The amount of compensation cost related to stock-based payment transactions is measured based on the grant-date fair value of the equity instruments issued.  The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.  The Company determines compensation cost for restricted stock units ("RSUs"), phantom stock units, and restricted stock based on the grant-date fair value of the underlying common stock adjusted for expected dividends paid over the required vesting period for non-participating awards.  Compensation cost is recognized over the period that an officer, employee, or non-employee director provides service in exchange for the award.
	The Company recognizes compensation cost for RSUs that are expected to vest and records cumulative adjustments in the period that the expectation changes.

Segment_Information_Policies

Segment Information (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Note 8 – Segment Information
	Vishay operates, and its chief operating decision maker makes strategic and operating decisions with regards to assessing performance and allocating resources based on, five reporting segments: MOSFETs, Diodes, Optoelectronic Components, Resistors & Inductors, and Capacitors.
	The Company evaluates business segment performance on operating income, exclusive of certain items ("segment operating income").  Only dedicated, direct selling, general, and administrative expenses of the segments are included in the calculation of segment operating income.  The Company's calculation of segment operating income excludes such selling, general, and administrative costs as global operations, sales and marketing, information systems, finance and administration groups, as well as restructuring and severance costs, executive compensation charges (credits), material gains and losses on sales of property, and other items.  Management believes that evaluating segment performance excluding such items is meaningful because it provides insight with respect to intrinsic operating results of the Company.  These items represent reconciling items between segment operating income and consolidated operating income.  Business segment assets are the owned or allocated assets used by each business.

Earnings_Per_Share_Policies

Earnings Per Share (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Discussion on convertible debt included in computation of earnings per share diluted	'
	The Company's convertible debt instruments are only convertible upon the occurrence of certain events.  While none of these events has occurred as of March 29, 2014, certain conditions which could trigger conversion have been deemed to be non-substantive, and accordingly, the Company has always assumed the conversion of these instruments in its diluted earnings per share computation during periods in which they are dilutive.
	At the direction of its Board of Directors, the Company intends, upon conversion, to repay the principal amounts of the convertible senior debentures, due 2040, due 2041, and due 2042, in cash and settle any additional amounts in shares of Vishay common stock. Accordingly, the debentures are included in the diluted earnings per share computation using the "treasury stock method" (similar to options and warrants) rather than the "if converted method" otherwise required for convertible debt.  Under the "treasury stock method," Vishay calculates the number of shares issuable under the terms of the debentures based on the average market price of Vishay common stock during the period, and that number is included in the total diluted shares figure for the period.  If the average market price is less than $13.82, no shares are included in the diluted earnings per share computation for the convertible senior debentures due 2040, if the average market price is less than $18.94, no shares are included in the diluted earnings per share computation for the convertible senior debentures due 2041, and if the average market price is less than $11.76, no shares are included in the diluted earnings per share computation for the convertible senior debentures due 2042.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Polici

Fair Value Measurements (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]	'
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy	'
	The fair value measurement accounting guidance establishes a valuation hierarchy of the inputs used to measure fair value. This hierarchy prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels. The following is a brief description of those three levels:
	Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active.
	Level 3: Unobservable inputs that reflect the Company's own assumptions.
	An asset or liability's classification within the hierarchy is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement. There have been no changes in the classification of any financial instruments within the fair value hierarchy in the periods presented.

Restructuring_and_Related_Acti1

Restructuring and Related Activities (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Restructuring and Related Expenses	'
	The following table summarizes restructuring and related expenses which were recognized during the fiscal quarter ended March 29, 2014 and reported on a separate line in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations:
	MOSFETs Enhanced Competitiveness Program	$	1,727
	Voluntary Separation / Retirement Program		4,677
	Total	$	6,404
MOSFETs Enhanced Competitiveness Program [Member]	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table summarizes the activity to date related to this program:
	Expense recorded in the fourth fiscal quarter of 2013	$	2,328
	Cash paid		(267	)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	2,061
	Expense		1,727
	Cash paid		(113	)
	Balance at March 29, 2014	$	3,675
Voluntary Separation/Retirement Program [Member]	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table summarizes the activity to date related to this program:
	Expense recorded in the fourth fiscal quarter of 2013	$	486
	Cash paid		(98	)
	Foreign currency translation		3
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	391
	Expense		4,677
	Cash paid		(1,791	)
	Foreign currency translation		(3	)
	Balance at March 29, 2014	$	3,274

LongTerm_Debt_Tables

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Long-Term Debt [Abstract]	'
Schedule of long-term debt instruments	'
	Long-term debt consists of the following:
		March 29,			December 31,
		2014			2013
	Credit facility	$	110,000		$	114,000
	Exchangeable unsecured notes, due 2102		38,642			38,642
	Convertible senior debentures, due 2040		102,367			101,846
	Convertible senior debentures, due 2041		52,519			52,264
	Convertible senior debentures, due 2042		58,420			58,159
			361,948			364,911
	Less current portion		-			-
		$	361,948		$	364,911
Key terms of the convertible debentures	'
	The following table summarizes some key facts and terms regarding the three series of outstanding convertible senior debentures following the adjustment made to the conversion rate of the debentures on the ex-dividend date of the March 27, 2014 dividend payment:
		Due 2040			Due 2041			Due 2042
	Issuance date	9-Nov-10			13-May-11			31-May-12
	Maturity date	15-Nov-40			15-May-41			1-Jun-42
	Principal amount	$	275,000		$	150,000		$	150,000
	Cash coupon rate (per annum)		2.25	%		2.25	%		2.25	%
	Nonconvertible debt borrowing rate at issuance (per annum)		8	%		8.375	%		7.5	%
	Conversion rate effective February 27, 2014 (per $1 principal amount)		72.3396			52.7896			85.0541
	Effective conversion price effective February 27, 2014 (per share)	$	13.82		$	18.94		$	11.76
	130% of the conversion price (per share)	$	17.97		$	24.62		$	15.29
	Call date	20-Nov-20			20-May-21			7-Jun-22
Liability and equity of component of convertible senior debentures	'
	The carrying values of the liability and equity components of the convertible debentures are reflected in the Company's consolidated condensed balance sheets as follows:
		Principal amount of			Unamortized discount			Embedded derivative			Carrying value of liability component			Equity component - net carrying value
		the debentures
	29-Mar-14
	Due 2040	$	275,000			(173,169	)		536		$	102,367		$	110,094
	Due 2041	$	150,000			(97,844	)		363		$	52,519		$	62,246
	Due 2042	$	150,000			(91,797	)		217		$	58,420		$	57,874
	Total	$	575,000		$	(362,810	)	$	1,116		$	213,306		$	230,214
	31-Dec-13
	Due 2040	$	275,000			(173,645	)		491		$	101,846		$	110,094
	Due 2041	$	150,000			(98,085	)		349		$	52,264		$	62,246
	Due 2042	$	150,000			(92,038	)		197		$	58,159		$	57,874
	Total	$	575,000		$	(363,768	)	$	1,037		$	212,269		$	230,214
Convertible debentures, interest expense	'
	Interest expense related to the debentures is reflected on the consolidated condensed statements of operations for the fiscal quarters ended:
		Contractual			Non-cash amortization of debt discount			Non-cash amortization of deferred financing costs			Non-cash change in value of derivative liability			Total interest expense related to the debentures
		coupon interest
	29-Mar-14
	Due 2040	$	1,547			476			22			45		$	2,090
	Due 2041	$	844			241			11			14		$	1,110
	Due 2042	$	844			241			13			20		$	1,118
	Total	$	3,235		$	958		$	46		$	79		$	4,318
	30-Mar-13
	Due 2040	$	1,547			440			22			(147	)	$	1,862
	Due 2041	$	844			222			12			(88	)	$	990
	Due 2042	$	844			224			13			(73	)	$	1,008
	Total	$	3,235		$	886		$	47		$	(308	)	$	3,860

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]	'
Summary of components of other comprehensive income	'
	The cumulative balance of each component of other comprehensive income (loss) and the income tax effects allocated to each component are as follows:
		Pension and other post-retirement actuarial items			Currency translation adjustment			Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities			Total
	Balance at January 1, 2014	$	(129,918	)	$	190,998			554		$	61,634
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications		-			(960	)		812		$	(148	)
	Tax effect		-			-			(284	)	$	(284	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications, net of tax		-			(960	)		528		$	(432	)
	Amounts reclassified out of AOCI		2,244			-			-		$	2,244
	Tax effect		(741	)		-			-		$	(741	)
	Amounts reclassified out of AOCI, net of tax		1,503			-			-		$	1,503
	Net comprehensive income	$	1,503		$	(960	)	$	528		$	1,071
	Balance at March 29, 2014	$	(128,415	)	$	190,038		$	1,082		$	62,705

Pensions_and_Other_Postretirem1

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Pension Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Net periodic benefit cost for pension and other postretirement benefit plans	'
	The following table shows the components of the net periodic pension cost for the first fiscal quarters of 2014 and 2013 for the Company's defined benefit pension plans:
		Fiscal quarter ended						Fiscal quarter ended
		29-Mar-14						30-Mar-13
		U.S. Plans			Non-U.S. Plans			U.S. Plans			Non-U.S. Plans
	Net service cost	$	-		$	824		$	-		$	885
	Interest cost		3,834			2,181			3,467			2,042
	Expected return on plan assets		(4,058	)		(525	)		(4,976	)		(529	)
	Amortization of prior service cost (credit)		(23	)		1			244			(9	)
	Amortization of losses		1,810			687			3,958			839
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	1,563		$	3,168		$	2,693		$	3,228
Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Net periodic benefit cost for pension and other postretirement benefit plans	'
	The following table shows the components of the net periodic benefit cost for the first fiscal quarters of 2014 and 2013 for the Company's other postretirement benefit plans:
		Fiscal quarter ended						Fiscal quarter ended
		29-Mar-14						30-Mar-13
		U.S. Plans			Non-U.S. Plans			U.S. Plans			Non-U.S. Plans
	Service cost	$	29		$	79		$	28		$	74
	Interest cost		88			63			78			64
	Amortization of prior service (credit)		(206	)		-			(200	)		-
	Amortization of losses (gains)		(35	)		10			1			-
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	(124	)	$	152		$	(93	)	$	138

StockBased_Compensation_Tables

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Summary of recognized stock-based compensation expense	'
	The following table summarizes stock-based compensation expense recognized:
		Fiscal quarters ended
		29-Mar-14			30-Mar-13
	Stock options	$	-		$	12
	Restricted stock units		810			928
	Phantom stock units		131			108
	Total	$	941		$	1,048
Schedule of unrecognized compensation cost, nonvested awards	'
	The following table summarizes unrecognized compensation cost and the weighted average remaining amortization periods at March 29, 2014 (amortization periods in years):
		Unrecognized Compensation Cost			Weighted Average Remaining Amortization Periods
	Stock options	$	-			0
	Restricted stock units		11,570			1.7
	Phantom stock units		-			0
	Total	$	11,570
Schedule of share-based compensation, restricted stock units award activity	'
	RSU activity under the 2007 Program as of March 29, 2014 and changes during the three fiscal months then ended are presented below (number of RSUs in thousands):
		Number of RSUs			Weighted Average Grant-date Fair Value per Unit
	Outstanding:
	1-Jan-14		1,059		$	13.4
	Granted		336			13.48
	Vested*		(146	)		15.87
	Cancelled or forfeited		(102	)		17.45
	Outstanding at March 29, 2014		1,147		$	12.75
	Expected to vest at March 29, 2014		760
	_______
	* The number of RSUs vested includes shares that the Company withheld on behalf of employees to satisfy the statutory tax withholding requirements.
Schedule of share-based compensation arrangement by share-based units, vested and expected to vest	'
	The number of performance-based RSUs that are scheduled to vest on January 1, 2015 is evaluated based on the full achievement of the defined target performance criteria.  The number of performance-based RSUs that are scheduled to vest on January 1, 2016 and January 1, 2017 increases ratably based on the achievement of defined performance criteria between the established target and maximum levels.  RSUs with performance-based vesting criteria are expected to vest as follows (number of RSUs in thousands):
	Vesting Date	Expected to Vest			Not Expected to Vest		Total
	1-Jan-15		-			276		276
	1-Jan-16		111			111		222
	1-Jan-17		192			-		192
Schedule of share-based compensation, phantom stock units, Activity	'
	Phantom stock unit activity under the phantom stock plan as of March 29, 2014 and changes during the three fiscal months then ended are presented below (number of phantom stock units in thousands):
		Number of units			Grant-date Fair Value per Unit
	Outstanding:
	1-Jan-14		107
	Granted		10		$	13.12
	Dividend equivalents issued		1
	Redeemed for common stock		-
	Outstanding at March 29, 2014		118

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment	'
	The following tables set forth business segment information:
		MOSFETs			Diodes			Optoelectronic Components		Resistors & Inductors		Capacitors		Total
	Fiscal quarter ended March 29, 2014:
	Product Sales	$	113,113		$	136,929		$	57,498	$	187,989	$	105,511	$	601,040
	Royalty Revenues		28			-			-		1,310		-	$	1,338
	Total Revenue	$	113,141		$	136,929		$	57,498	$	189,299	$	105,511	$	602,378
	Gross Margin	$	12,617		$	29,765		$	21,237	$	60,120	$	21,544	$	145,283
	Fiscal quarter ended March 30, 2013:
	Product Sales	$	100,846		$	125,112		$	56,226	$	163,928	$	106,162	$	552,274
	Royalty Revenues		42			-			-		1,938		-	$	1,980
	Total Revenue	$	100,888		$	125,112		$	56,226	$	165,866	$	106,162	$	554,254
	Gross Margin	$	12,900		$	27,261		$	19,774	$	52,601	$	24,198	$	136,734
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated	'
		Fiscal quarters ended
		29-Mar-14			30-Mar-13
	Operating margin reconciliation:
	MOSFETs	$	2,487		$	2,833
	Diodes		23,058			21,389
	Optoelectronic Components		17,404			16,209
	Resistors & Inductors		50,336			44,200
	Capacitors		15,341			18,456
	Restructuring and Severance Costs		(6,404	)		-
	Unallocated Selling, General, and Administrative Expenses		(59,650	)		(57,482	)
	Consolidated Operating Income		42,572		$	45,605

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	'
	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to Vishay stockholders (shares in thousands):
		Fiscal quarters ended
		29-Mar-14		30-Mar-13
	Numerator:
	Numerator for basic earnings per share:
	Net earnings	$	25,810	$	28,931
	Adjustment to the numerator for continuing operations and net earnings:
	Interest savings assuming conversion of dilutive convertible and exchangeable notes, net of tax		16		47
	Numerator for diluted earnings per share:
	Net earnings	$	25,826	$	28,978
	Denominator:
	Denominator for basic earnings per share:
	Weighted average shares		147,440		143,484
	Outstanding phantom stock units		117		107
	Adjusted weighted average shares		147,557		143,591
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Convertible and exchangeable debt instruments		4,782		6,663
	Restricted stock units		210		377
	Other		7		1
	Dilutive potential common shares		4,999		7,041
	Denominator for diluted earnings per share:
	Adjusted weighted average shares		152,556		150,632
	Basic earnings per share attributable to Vishay stockholders	$	0.17	$	0.2
	Diluted earnings per share attributable to Vishay stockholders	$	0.17	$	0.19
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share	'
	Diluted earnings per share for the periods presented do not reflect the following weighted average potential common shares that would have an antidilutive effect or have unsatisfied performance conditions (in thousands):
		Fiscal quarters ended
		29-Mar-14		30-Mar-13
	Convertible and exchangeable notes:
	Convertible Senior Debentures, due 2040		-		19,809
	Convertible Senior Debentures, due 2041		7,897		7,885
	Weighted average employee stock options		77		105
	Weighted average other		114		523

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]	'
Schedule of fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring basis	'
	The following table provides the financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value measured on a recurring basis:
		Total			Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
		Fair Value
	March 29, 2014:
	Assets:
	Assets held in rabbi trusts	$	37,280		$	24,254	$	13,026	$	-
	Available for sale securities	$	7,453			7,453		-		-
		$	44,733		$	31,707	$	13,026	$	-
	Liabilities:
	Embedded derivative - convertible debentures due 2040	$	(536	)	$	-	$	-	$	(536	)
	Embedded derivative - convertible debentures due 2041	$	(363	)		-		-		(363	)
	Embedded derivative - convertible debentures due 2042	$	(217	)		-		-		(217	)
		$	(1,116	)	$	-	$	-	$	(1,116	)
	December 31, 2013:
	Assets:
	Assets held in rabbi trusts	$	36,992		$	24,064		12,928	$	-
	Available for sale securities	$	7,356			7,356		-		-
		$	44,348		$	31,420	$	12,928	$	-
	Liabilities:
	Embedded derivative - convertible debentures due 2040	$	(491	)	$	-	$	-	$	(491	)
	Embedded derivative - convertible debentures due 2041	$	(349	)		-		-		(349	)
	Embedded derivative - convertible debentures due 2042	$	(197	)		-		-		(197	)
		$	(1,037	)	$	-	$	-	$	(1,037	)

Restructuring_and_Related_Acti2

Restructuring and Related Activities (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
			MOSFETs Enhanced Competitiveness Program [Member]	MOSFETs Enhanced Competitiveness Program [Member]	Voluntary Separation/Retirement Program [Member]	Voluntary Separation/Retirement Program [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Reserve, Current	'	'	$908	'	$3,274	'
Restructuring and related expense	6,404	'	1,727	'	4,677	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restructuring and severance costs	6,404	0	1,727	2,328	4,677	486
Cash paid	'	'	-113	-267	-1,791	-98
Foreign currency translation	'	'	'	'	-3	3
Balance at end of period	'	'	3,675	2,061	3,274	391
Balance at beginning of period	'	'	2,061	'	391	'
Term of restructuring program	'	'	'2 years	'	'	'
Expected Restructuring Costs	$32,000	'	$16,000	'	'	'

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'	'
Decrease in liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits	$2,129	'
One-time tax benefit due to retroactive enactment of the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012	'	($1,330)

LongTerm_Debt_Details

Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'
Long-term debt	$361,948	'	$364,911
Exchangeable unsecured notes, due 2102	38,642	'	38,642
Credit facility	110,000	'	114,000
Less current portion	0	'	0
Long-term debt, less current portion	361,948	'	364,911
Debt Instruments [Abstract]	'	'	'
Principal amount of debt	575,000	'	575,000
Liability and equity components of convertible debentures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Principal amount of the debentures	575,000	'	575,000
Unamortized discount	-362,810	'	-363,768
Embedded derivative	1,116	'	1,037
Carrying value of liability component	213,306	'	212,269
Equity component - net carrying value	230,214	'	230,214
Interest expense related to debentures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Contractual coupon interest	3,235	3,235	'
Non-cash amortization of debt discount	958	886	'
Non-cash amortization of deferred financing costs	46	47	'
Non-cash change in value of derivative liability	79	-308	'
Total interest expense related to the debentures	4,318	3,860	'
Convertible Senior Debentures 2040 [Member]	'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'
Convertible Debt, Noncurrent	102,367	'	101,846
Debt Instruments [Abstract]	'	'	'
Issuance date	9-Nov-10	'	'
Debt maturity date	15-Nov-40	'	'
Principal amount of debt	275,000	'	275,000
Stated rate of interest on debt (in hundredths)	2.25%	'	'
Effective rate of interest on convertible senior debentures (in hundredths)	8.00%	'	'
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Stock Price Trigger	$17.97	'	'
Debt conversion rate	72.3396	'	'
Debt effective conversion price	$13.82	'	'
Convertible senior debentures call date	20-Nov-20	'	'
Liability and equity components of convertible debentures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Principal amount of the debentures	275,000	'	275,000
Unamortized discount	-173,169	'	-173,645
Embedded derivative	536	'	491
Carrying value of liability component	102,367	'	101,846
Equity component - net carrying value	110,094	'	110,094
Interest expense related to debentures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Contractual coupon interest	1,547	1,547	'
Non-cash amortization of debt discount	476	440	'
Non-cash amortization of deferred financing costs	22	22	'
Non-cash change in value of derivative liability	45	-147	'
Total interest expense related to the debentures	2,090	1,862	'
Convertible Senior Debentures 2041 [Member]	'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'
Convertible Debt, Noncurrent	52,519	'	52,264
Debt Instruments [Abstract]	'	'	'
Issuance date	13-May-11	'	'
Debt maturity date	15-May-41	'	'
Principal amount of debt	150,000	'	150,000
Stated rate of interest on debt (in hundredths)	2.25%	'	'
Effective rate of interest on convertible senior debentures (in hundredths)	8.38%	'	'
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Stock Price Trigger	$24.62	'	'
Debt conversion rate	52.7896	'	'
Debt effective conversion price	$18.94	'	'
Convertible senior debentures call date	20-May-21	'	'
Liability and equity components of convertible debentures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Principal amount of the debentures	150,000	'	150,000
Unamortized discount	-97,844	'	-98,085
Embedded derivative	363	'	349
Carrying value of liability component	52,519	'	52,264
Equity component - net carrying value	62,246	'	62,246
Interest expense related to debentures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Contractual coupon interest	844	844	'
Non-cash amortization of debt discount	241	222	'
Non-cash amortization of deferred financing costs	11	12	'
Non-cash change in value of derivative liability	14	-88	'
Total interest expense related to the debentures	1,110	990	'
Convertible Senior Debentures 2042 [Member]	'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'
Convertible Debt, Noncurrent	58,420	'	58,159
Debt Instruments [Abstract]	'	'	'
Issuance date	31-May-12	'	'
Debt maturity date	1-Jun-42	'	'
Principal amount of debt	150,000	'	150,000
Stated rate of interest on debt (in hundredths)	2.25%	'	'
Effective rate of interest on convertible senior debentures (in hundredths)	7.50%	'	'
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Stock Price Trigger	$15.29	'	'
Debt conversion rate	85.0541	'	'
Debt effective conversion price	$11.76	'	'
Convertible senior debentures call date	7-Jun-22	'	'
Liability and equity components of convertible debentures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Principal amount of the debentures	150,000	'	150,000
Unamortized discount	-91,797	'	-92,038
Embedded derivative	217	'	197
Carrying value of liability component	58,420	'	58,159
Equity component - net carrying value	57,874	'	57,874
Interest expense related to debentures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Contractual coupon interest	844	844	'
Non-cash amortization of debt discount	241	224	'
Non-cash amortization of deferred financing costs	13	13	'
Non-cash change in value of derivative liability	20	-73	'
Total interest expense related to the debentures	$1,118	$1,008	'

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'	'
Beginning Balance	$61,634	'
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	-148	'
Tax effect	-284	'
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications, net of tax	-432	'
Amounts reclassified out of AOCI	2,244	'
Tax effect	-741	'
Amounts reclassified out of AOCI, net of tax	1,503	'
Net comprehensive income	1,071	-21,460
Ending Balance	62,705	'
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Available-for-Sale Securities [Member]	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'	'
Beginning Balance	554	'
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	812	'
Tax effect	-284	'
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications, net of tax	528	'
Amounts reclassified out of AOCI	0	'
Tax effect	0	'
Amounts reclassified out of AOCI, net of tax	0	'
Net comprehensive income	528	'
Ending Balance	1,082	'
Currency Translation Adjustment [Member]	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'	'
Beginning Balance	190,998	'
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	-960	'
Tax effect	0	'
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications, net of tax	-960	'
Amounts reclassified out of AOCI	0	'
Tax effect	0	'
Amounts reclassified out of AOCI, net of tax	0	'
Net comprehensive income	-960	'
Ending Balance	190,038	'
Pension and Other Post-Retirement Actuarial Items [Member]	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'	'
Beginning Balance	-129,918	'
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	0	'
Tax effect	0	'
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications, net of tax	0	'
Amounts reclassified out of AOCI	2,244	'
Tax effect	-741	'
Amounts reclassified out of AOCI, net of tax	1,503	'
Net comprehensive income	1,503	'
Ending Balance	($128,415)	'

Pensions_and_Other_Postretirem2

Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Non-U.S. Plans [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Net service cost	$824	$885
Interest cost	2,181	2,042
Expected return on plan assets	-525	-529
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	1	-9
Amortization of losses (gains)	687	839
Net periodic benefit cost	3,168	3,228
U.S. Plans [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Net service cost	0	0
Interest cost	3,834	3,467
Expected return on plan assets	-4,058	-4,976
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	-23	244
Amortization of losses (gains)	1,810	3,958
Net periodic benefit cost	1,563	2,693
United States Postretirement Benefit Plans of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Net service cost	29	28
Interest cost	88	78
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	-206	-200
Amortization of losses (gains)	-35	1
Net periodic benefit cost	-124	-93
Foreign Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Net service cost	79	74
Interest cost	63	64
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	0	0
Amortization of losses (gains)	10	0
Net periodic benefit cost	$152	$138

StockBased_Compensation_Detail

Stock-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014		Mar. 30, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'		'
Stock-based compensation expense recognized	$941		$1,048
Unrecognized Compensation Cost	11,570		'
Expiration date of the 2007 stock incentive plan	'May 22, 2017		'
Maximum number of shares granted under restricted stock, unrestricted stock, RSU's and stock options to officers, employees and employee directors (in shares)	3,000,000		'
Stock Options Outstanding:	'		'
Balance	109,000		'
Exercised (in shares)	0		'
Balance	109,000		'
Balance (in dollars per share)	$15.24		'
Weighted average remaining contractual life of options outstanding	'2 years 11 months 23 days		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest [Abstract]	'		'
Vested and expected to vest (in dollars per share)	$15.24		'
Stock price (in dollars per share)	$14.49		'
Stock options exercised (in shares)	0		'
Intrinsic value under share based compensation scheme	56		'
Stock Options [Member]	'		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'		'
Stock-based compensation expense recognized	0		12
Unrecognized Compensation Cost	0		'
Weighted Average Remaining Amortization Periods	'0 years		'
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	'		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'		'
Stock-based compensation expense recognized	810		928
Unrecognized Compensation Cost	11,570		'
Weighted Average Remaining Amortization Periods	'1 year 8 months 12 days		'
Equity Awards Other Than Options Outstanding:	'		'
Balance (in shares)	1,059		'
Balance (in dollars per share)	$13.40		'
Granted (in shares)	336		'
Granted (in dollars per share)	$13.48		'
Vested (in shares)	-146	[1]	'
Vested (in dollars per share)	$15.87	[1]	'
Cancelled or forfeited (in shares)	-102		'
Cancelled or forfeited (in dollars per share)	$17.45		'
Balance (in shares)	1,147		'
Balance (in dollars per share)	$12.75		'
Expected to vest at March 29, 2014 (in shares)	760		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number, Ending Balance	1,147		'
Phantom Share Units (PSUs) [Member]	'		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'		'
Stock-based compensation expense recognized	131		108
Unrecognized Compensation Cost	$0		'
Weighted Average Remaining Amortization Periods	'0 years		'
Maximum number of shares granted under restricted stock, unrestricted stock, RSU's and stock options to officers, employees and employee directors (in shares)	300,000		'
Equity Awards Other Than Options Outstanding:	'		'
Balance (in shares)	107		'
Granted (in shares)	10		'
Granted (in dollars per share)	$13.12		'
Dividend equivalents issued	1		'
Redeemed for common stock	0		'
Balance (in shares)	118		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number, Ending Balance	118		'
Scheduled to Vest January 1, 2015 [Member] | Performance Vested Restricted Stock Units [Member]	'		'
Equity Awards Other Than Options Outstanding:	'		'
Balance (in shares)	276		'
Expected to vest at March 29, 2014 (in shares)	0		'
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Not Expected To Vest Outstanding Number	276		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number, Ending Balance	276		'
Scheduled to Vest January 1, 2016 [Member] | Performance Vested Restricted Stock Units [Member]	'		'
Equity Awards Other Than Options Outstanding:	'		'
Balance (in shares)	222		'
Expected to vest at March 29, 2014 (in shares)	111		'
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Not Expected To Vest Outstanding Number	111		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number, Ending Balance	222		'
Scheduled to Vest January 1, 2017 [Member] | Performance Vested Restricted Stock Units [Member]	'		'
Equity Awards Other Than Options Outstanding:	'		'
Balance (in shares)	192		'
Expected to vest at March 29, 2014 (in shares)	192		'
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Not Expected To Vest Outstanding Number	0		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number, Ending Balance	192		'
[1]	The number of RSUs vested includes shares that the Company withheld on behalf of employees to satisfy the statutory tax withholding requirements.

Segment_Information_Details

Segment Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
	Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Number of reportable segments	5	'
Product Sales	$601,040	$552,274
Royalty Revenues	1,338	1,980
Total Revenue	602,378	554,254
Gross Margin	145,283	136,734
Segment Operating Income	42,572	45,605
Operating Income (Loss)	42,572	45,605
Restructuring and severance Costs	-6,404	0
MOSFETS Segment [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Product Sales	113,113	100,846
Royalty Revenues	28	42
Total Revenue	113,141	100,888
Gross Margin	12,617	12,900
Operating Income (Loss)	2,487	2,833
Diodes Segment [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Product Sales	136,929	125,112
Royalty Revenues	0	0
Total Revenue	136,929	125,112
Gross Margin	29,765	27,261
Operating Income (Loss)	23,058	21,389
Optoelectronic Components Segment [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Product Sales	57,498	56,226
Royalty Revenues	0	0
Total Revenue	57,498	56,226
Gross Margin	21,237	19,774
Operating Income (Loss)	17,404	16,209
Resistors And Inductors Segment [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Product Sales	187,989	163,928
Royalty Revenues	1,310	1,938
Total Revenue	189,299	165,866
Gross Margin	60,120	52,601
Operating Income (Loss)	50,336	44,200
Capacitors Segment [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Product Sales	105,511	106,162
Royalty Revenues	0	0
Total Revenue	105,511	106,162
Gross Margin	21,544	24,198
Operating Income (Loss)	15,341	18,456
Unallocated Amount to Segment [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Operating Income (Loss)	($59,650)	($57,482)

Earnings_Per_Share_Details

Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Numerator for basic earnings per share:	'	'
Net earnings	$25,810	$28,931
Adjustment to the numerator for continuing operations and net earnings:	'	'
Interest savings assuming conversion of dilutive convertible and exchangeable notes, net of tax	16	47
Numerator for diluted earnings per share:	'	'
Net earnings	$25,826	$28,978
Denominator for basic earnings per share:	'	'
Weighted Average Number of Shares Issued, Basic	147,440	143,484
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Participating Nonvested Shares with Non-forfeitable Dividend Rights	117	107
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic (in shares)	147,557	143,591
Effect of dilutive securities:	'	'
Convertible and exchangeable debt instruments	4,782	6,663
Restricted stock units	210	377
Other	7	1
Dilutive potential common shares	4,999	7,041
Denominator for diluted earnings per share:	'	'
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted (in shares)	152,556	150,632
Basic earnings per share attributable to Vishay stockholders (in dollars per share)	$0.17	$0.20
Diluted earnings per share attributable to Vishay stockholders (in dollars per share)	$0.17	$0.19
Convertible Senior Debentures 2040 [Member]	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share Amount (in shares)	0	19,809
Minimum market price of common stock for inclusion of shares issuable upon conversion of subordinated notes for calculation of diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$13.82	'
Convertible Senior Debentures 2041 [Member]	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share Amount (in shares)	7,897	7,885
Minimum market price of common stock for inclusion of shares issuable upon conversion of subordinated notes for calculation of diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$18.94	'
Convertible Senior Debentures 2042 [Member]	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'
Minimum market price of common stock for inclusion of shares issuable upon conversion of subordinated notes for calculation of diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$11.76	'
Weighted average employees stock options [Member]	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share Amount (in shares)	77	105
Weighted average other [Member]	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share Amount (in shares)	114	523

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail

Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Assets:	'	'
Held-to-maturity Securities, Transferred Security, at Carrying Value	$0	'
Held-to-maturity Securities, Unrecognized Holding Gain	0	'
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Held-to-maturity Securities	0	'
Assets held in rabbi trusts	37,280	36,992
Available for sale securities	7,453	7,356
Fair Value Assets	44,733	44,348
Liabilities:	'	'
Embedded derivative	-1,116	-1,037
Fair Value Liabilities	-1,116	-1,037
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	797,100	750,700
Carrying value of long-term debt, excluding derivative liabilities	360,832	363,874
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]	'	'
Assets:	'	'
Assets held in rabbi trusts	24,254	24,064
Available for sale securities	7,453	7,356
Fair Value Assets	31,707	31,420
Liabilities:	'	'
Fair Value Liabilities	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	'	'
Assets:	'	'
Assets held in rabbi trusts	13,026	12,928
Available for sale securities	0	0
Fair Value Assets	13,026	12,928
Liabilities:	'	'
Fair Value Liabilities	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'	'
Assets:	'	'
Assets held in rabbi trusts	0	0
Available for sale securities	0	0
Fair Value Assets	0	0
Liabilities:	'	'
Fair Value Liabilities	-1,116	-1,037
Convertible Senior Debentures 2040 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Embedded derivative	-536	-491
Convertible Senior Debentures 2040 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Embedded derivative	0	0
Convertible Senior Debentures 2040 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Embedded derivative	0	0
Convertible Senior Debentures 2040 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Embedded derivative	-536	-491
Convertible Senior Debentures 2041 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Embedded derivative	-363	-349
Convertible Senior Debentures 2041 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Embedded derivative	0	0
Convertible Senior Debentures 2041 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Embedded derivative	0	0
Convertible Senior Debentures 2041 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Embedded derivative	-363	-349
Convertible Senior Debentures 2042 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Embedded derivative	-217	-197
Convertible Senior Debentures 2042 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Embedded derivative	0	0
Convertible Senior Debentures 2042 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Embedded derivative	0	0
Convertible Senior Debentures 2042 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Embedded derivative	($217)	($197)