| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 20, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC |
| Entity Address, State or Province | GA |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000721683 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 20, 2019 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | GA |
| Entity File Number | 1-10254 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 58-1493818 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | One TSYS Way |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Columbus |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 31901 |
| City Area Code | (706) |
| Local Phone Number | 644-4388 |
| Written Communications | true |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $.10 Par Value |
| Trading Symbol | TSS |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
