| Cover Page | Feb. 12, 2020 |
| Cover page. | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001123360 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 12, 2020 |
| Entity File Number | 001-16111 |
| Entity Registrant Name | GLOBAL PAYMENTS INC |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | GA |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 58-2567903 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 3550 Lenox Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Atlanta |
| Entity Address, State or Province | GA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 30326 |
| City Area Code | 770 |
| Local Phone Number | 829-8000 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock, no par value |
| Trading Symbol | GPN |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
