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Document and Entity Information (USD $)
In Billions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012
Jun. 30, 2012
Jan. 31, 2012
Document And Entitiy Information [Abstract]      
Document type 10-K    
Document period end date Dec. 31, 2012    
Amendment flag false    
Entity registrant name REINSURANCE GROUP OF AMERICA INC    
Entity central index key 0000898174    
Entity current reporting status Yes    
Entity voluntary filers No    
Current fiscal year end date --12-31    
Entity filer category Large Accelerated Filer    
Entity well known seasoned issuer Yes    
Common Shares Outstanding     73,930,128
Entity public float   $ 3.9  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2012    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY