v2.4.0.6

INCOME TAXES (DETAILS 3) (U.S. [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2010
--- | --- | ---
U.S. [Member] |  |
Valuation Allowance Considerations [Line Items] |  |
Net unrealized capital gains | $ 74 | $ 38

X
- Details
Name: | axs_ValuationAllowanceConsiderationsLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | axs_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The net amount of gross unrealized gains (losses) for securities, at a point in time, which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 9 -Subparagraph (d) -SubTopic 10 -Topic 320 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6872113&loc=d3e27357-111563 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossUnrealizedGainLoss
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant