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Retrocession Arrangements and Reinsurance Ceded Receivables (Narrative Details) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended
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Mar. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012
Retrocession Arrangements And Reinsurance Ceded Receivables [Abstract] |  |
Retrocession Pool Participants Minimum AM Best Rating | A- (excellent) | A- (excellent)
Reinsurance Claims Recoverables | $ 156,400,000 | $ 156,000,000
Claims Recoverable From Retrocessionaires Past Due | $ 16,600,000 | $ 10,400,000

X
- Definition Represents the amount of claims paid by the company and recoverable from retrocessionaires which is contractually past due in excess of 90 days. + References No definition available. + Details
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X
- Definition The known and estimated amount recoverable as of the balance sheet date from reinsurers for claims paid or incurred by the ceding insurer and associated claims settlement expenses, including estimated amounts for claims incurred but not reported, and policy benefits, net of any related valuation allowance. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | rga_ReinsuranceClaimsRecoverables
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Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

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- Details
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X
- Definition Minimum A.M. Best rating for retrocession pool participants. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | rga_RetrocessionPoolParticipantsMinimumAmBestRating
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Balance Type: | na
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