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Derivative Instruments (Hedges of Net Investments in Foreign Operations) (Details) (Currency Swap [Member], USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended
--- | --- | ---
Sep. 30, 2014 | Sep. 30, 2013 | Sep. 30, 2014 | Sep. 30, 2013
Currency Swap [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net Derivatives Gains (Losses) Deferred in AOCI | $ 27,931 | [1],[2] | $ (14,600) | [1],[2] | $ 28,675 | [1],[2] | $ 20,235 | [1],[2]
[1] | There was no ineffectiveness recognized for the Company’s hedges of net investments in foreign operations.
[2] | There were no sales or substantial liquidations of net investments in foreign operations that would have required the reclassification of gains or losses from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into investment income during the periods presented.

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- Definition The current period gain (loss) recognized in other comprehensive income related to the effective portion of derivatives designated in cash flow hedges. + References No definition available. + Details
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Namespace Prefix: | rga_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

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- Details
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Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
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Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration