| Cover | Jul. 28, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jul. 28, 2021 |
| Entity Registrant Name | WEST BANCORPORATION, INC. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | IA |
| Entity File Number | 0-49677 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 42-1230603 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1601 22nd Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | West Des Moines |
| Entity Address, State or Province | IA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 50266 |
| City Area Code | 515- |
| Local Phone Number | 222-2300 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock, no par value |
| Trading Symbol | WTBA |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001166928 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
