| Document and Entity Information | Dec. 11, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | Domtar CORP |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001381531 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 11, 2019 |
| Entity File Number | 001-33164 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 20-5901152 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 234 Kingsley Park Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Fort Mill |
| Entity Address, State or Province | SC |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 29715 |
| City Area Code | 803 |
| Local Phone Number | 802-7500 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, Par Value $0.01 Per Share |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Trading Symbol | UFS |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
