| Cover | Apr. 13, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 13, 2020 |
| Entity File Number | 001-36504 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Weatherford International plc |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001603923 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 98-0606750 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | L2 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 2000 St. James Place |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Houston |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 77056 |
| City Area Code | 713 |
| Local Phone Number | 836-4000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Ordinary Shares, par value $0.001 per share |
| Trading Symbol | WFTLF |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
