| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 20, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | GLOBAL PAYMENTS INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001123360 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 20, 2019 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | GA |
| Entity File Number | 001-16111 |
| 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 |
| Written Communications | true |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, no par value |
| Trading Symbol | GPN |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
