| Document and Entity Information | Feb. 09, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | CITRIX SYSTEMS INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000877890 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 9, 2021 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 0-27084 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 75-2275152 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 851 West Cypress Creek Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Fort Lauderdale |
| Entity Address, State or Province | FL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 33309 |
| City Area Code | (954) |
| Local Phone Number | 267-3000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common stock, $.001 par value per share |
| Trading Symbol | CTXS |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
