Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Share-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Eliminations [Member] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Weatherford Ireland [Member] Weatherford Ireland Parent Company [Member] The registrant that controls, directly or indirectly, another entity (or entities). The usual condition for control is ownership of a majority (over 50%) of the outstanding voting stock. The power to control may also exist with a lesser percentage of ownership, for example, by contract, lease, agreement with other stockholders or by court decree. Weatherford Bermuda [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries, Weatherford Bermuda [Member] Refers to Subsidiaries Of the Parent in Other Countries In this Case it is in Bermuda. Weatherford Delaware [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries, Weatherford Delaware [Member] Refers To Subsidiaries Of the Parent in Other Countries In this Case it is in Delaware. Other Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Other Current Assets Other Assets, Current, Consolidating Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of current assets not separately presented elsewhere in the balance sheet. Current assets are expected to be realized or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Amount used on consolidating schedule. Total Current Assets Assets, Current Equity Investments in Affiliates Equity Method Investments In Affiliates This item represents the carrying amount on the entity's balance sheet of its equity investment in the entity's affiliates. Intercompany Receivables, Net Intercompany Receivables, Net Net carrying amount of intercompany receivables, other than from customers, as of balance sheet date. Amounts are eliminated in consolidation. Other Assets Other Assets, Noncurrent, Consolidating Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Amount used on consolidating schedule. Total Assets Assets LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Short-term Borrowings and Current Portion of Long-Term Debt Debt, Current Accounts Payable and Other Current Liabilities Accounts Payable and Other Liabilities, Current Aggregate carrying value as of the balance sheet date of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received and other liabilities not separately disclosed in balance sheet that are used in an entity's business. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer) Total Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term Debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Intercompany Payables, Net Intercompany Payables Net Net carrying amount of intercompany payables, other than from external vendors, as of balance sheet date. Amounts are eliminated in consolidation. Other Long-term Liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total Liabilities Liabilities Weatherford Shareholders’ Equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling Interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity Liabilities and Equity Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Current Assets: Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Noncurrent Assets: Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Accumulated Depreciation of Property, Plant and Equipment Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated Amortization of Other Intangible Assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Shareholders’ Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract] Common Shares, Par Value (in USD) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Shares, Authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Shares, Conditionally Authorized (in shares) Common Shares, Shares, Conditionally Authorized Common Shares, Shares, Conditionally Authorized Common Shares, Issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, Outstanding (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Treasury Shares, at cost (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] A&R Credit Agreement [Member] A&R Credit Agreement [Member] A&R Credit Agreement [Member] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Revolving credit facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Other short-term bank loans [Member] Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] Short-term Debt [Line Items] Short-term Debt [Line Items] Credit agreement, maximum capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Short-term Debt Short-term Debt Current portion of long-term debt and term loan agreement Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Short-term borrowings and current portion of long-term debt Accounting Policies [Abstract] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Inventories, Net Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block] Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] North America [Member] North America [Member] Middle East, North Africa, and Asia [Member] Middle East, North Africa, and Asia [Member] Middle East, North Africa, and Asia Europe, Sub-Sahara Africa, Russia [Member] Europe, Sub-Sahara Africa, Russia [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Latin America [Member] Latin America [Member] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] 2016 Plan [Member] 2016 Plan [Member] 2016 Plan [Member] 2015 Plan [Member] 2015 Plan [Member] 2015 Plan [Member] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Employee Severance [Member] Employee Severance [Member] Other Restructuring [Member] Other Restructuring [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Core Regional Segments [Member] Core Regional Segments [Member] Core Regional Segments [Member] Land Drilling Rigs [Member] Drilling Rigs [Member] Drilling Rigs [Member] Operating Segments [Member] Operating Segments [Member] Corporate and Research and Development [Member] Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Severance Costs Severance Costs Other Restructuring Costs Other Restructuring Costs Severance, asset impairment and other restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Issued and Treasury Shares [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Par Value of Issued Shares [Member] Common Stock [Member] Capital in Excess of Par Value [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interests [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Sale of Stock [Domain] Sale of Stock [Domain] Schedule of Issued and Treasury Shares [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Dividends Paid to Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Common Stocks, Including Additional Paid in Capital Common Stocks, Including Additional Paid in Capital Issuance of Exchangeable Notes Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Convertible Debt with Conversion Feature Equity Awards Granted, Vested and Exercised Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Balance, ending balance Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Additional Paid in Capital Additional Paid in Capital Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Capital in Excess of Par Value Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Revenues Revenue, Net Costs and Expenses Costs and Expenses Operating Income (Loss) Operating Income (Loss) Other Income (Expense): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest Expense, Net Interest Income (Expense), Nonoperating, Net Intercompany Charges, Net Intercompany Charges, Net Net amount of intercompany charges, other than from external customers. Amounts are eliminated in consolidation. Equity in Subsidiary Income Income (Loss) from Subsidiary This item represents the portion of the entity's net income (loss) from its subsidiaries Other, Net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense), Including Foreign Currency Devaluation Other Nonoperating Income (Expense), Including Foreign Currency Devaluation Loss Before Income Taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest (Provision) Benefit for Income Taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net Loss Noncontrolling Interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Weatherford Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Weatherford Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Other, Net [Member] Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Fair Value Hedging [Member] Fair Value Hedging [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest rate swap [Member] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Foreign currency forward contracts [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Cross-currency swap contracts [Member] Currency Swap [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium Deferred (gain) loss on discontinuation of fair value hedge Deferred (Gain) Loss on Discontinuation of Fair Value Hedge Notional amount Derivative, Notional Amount Gain (loss) on derivative Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value and Carrying Value of Long-term Debt [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior Notes [Member] Senior Notes [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Value [Member] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair value of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Base Rate [Member] Base Rate [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] Exchangeable Senior Notes [Member] Exchangeable Debt [Member] Term Loan Agreement [Member] Term Loan Agreement [Member] Term Loan Agreement [Member] Senior Notes, 5.50% due 2016 [Member] Senior Notes, 5.50 Percent due 2016 [Member] Including the current and noncurrent portions, carrying value as of the balance sheet date of 5.50 percent Notes with the highest claim on the assets of the issuer in case of bankruptcy or liquidation, maturing in 2016. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Senior Notes, 4.50% due 2022 [Member] Senior Notes, 4.50 Percent due 2022 [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Senior Notes, 8.25 Percent due 2023 [Member] Senior Notes, 8.25 Percent due 2023 [Member] Senior Notes, 8.25 Percent due 2023 [Member] Senior Notes, 6.35% due 2017 [Member] Senior Notes, 6.35 Percent due 2017 [Member] Including the current and noncurrent portions, carrying value as of the balance sheet date of 6.35 percent Notes with the highest claim on the assets of the issuer in case of bankruptcy or liquidation, maturing in 2017. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Senior Notes, 6.00% due 2018 [Member] Senior Notes, 6.00 Percent due 2018 [Member] Including the current and noncurrent portions, carrying value as of the balance sheet date of 6.00 percent Notes with the highest claim on the assets of the issuer in case of bankruptcy or liquidation, maturing in 2018. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Senior Notes, 9.625% due 2019 [Member] Senior Notes, 9.625 Percent due 2019 [Member] Including the current and noncurrent portions, carrying value as of the balance sheet date of 9.625 percent Notes with the highest claim on the assets of the issuer in case of bankruptcy or liquidation, maturing in 2019. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Senior Notes, 5.125% due 2020 [Member] Senior Notes, 5.125 Percent due 2020 [Member] Notes with the highest claim on the assets of the issuer in case of bankruptcy or liquidation (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer), excluding current portion due in the year 2020. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Exchangeable Senior Notes, 5.875 Percent due 2021 [Member] Exchangeable Senior Notes, 5.875 Percent due 2021 [Member] Exchangeable Senior Notes, 5.875 Percent due 2021 [Member] Senior Notes, 7.75 Percent due 2021 [Member] Senior Notes, 7.75 Percent due 2021 [Member] Senior Notes, 7.75 Percent due 2021 [Member] Senior Notes, 5.95% due 2042 [Member] Senior Notes, 5.95 Percent due 2042 [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Senior Notes, 6.50% due 2036 [Member] Senior Notes, 6.50 Percent due 2036 [Member] Including the current and noncurrent portions, carrying value as of the balance sheet date of 6.50 percent Notes with the highest claim on the assets of the issuer in case of bankruptcy or liquidation, maturing in 2036. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Senior Notes, 6.75% due 2040 [Member] Senior Notes, 6.75 Percent due 2040 [Member] Notes with the highest claim on the assets of the issuer in case of bankruptcy or liquidation (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer), excluding current portion due in the year 2040. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Senior Notes, 6.80% due 2037 [Member] Senior Notes, 6.80 Percent due 2037 [Member] Including the current and noncurrent portions, carrying value as of the balance sheet date of 6.80 percent Notes with the highest claim on the assets of the issuer in case of bankruptcy or liquidation, maturing in 2037. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Senior Notes, 7.00% due 2038 [Member] Senior Notes, 7.00 Percent due 2038 [Member] Including the current and noncurrent portions, carrying value as of the balance sheet date of 7.00 percent Notes with the highest claim on the assets of the issuer in case of bankruptcy or liquidation, maturing in 2038. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Principal Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Principal Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Stated interest rate on debt Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Repayments of Debt Repayments of Debt Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Debt Instrument, Convertible, Shares Debt Instrument, Convertible, Shares Debt Instrument, Convertible, Shares Debt Issuance Costs, Net Debt Issuance Costs, Net Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Interest Expense, Debt Interest Expense, Debt Interest Expense, Debt, Excluding Amortization Interest Expense, Debt, Excluding Amortization Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Book Value of Debt Repurchase Book Value of Debt Repurchase Book Value of Debt Repurchase Gain on repurchase of debt Gain (Loss) on Repurchase of Debt Instrument Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount Interest Payable Interest Payable Bond Tender Premium, Net Bond Tender Premium, Net Bond Tender Premium, Net Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Oil-for-Food Program and Foreign Corrupt Practices Act [Member] Oil-for-Food Program and Foreign Corrupt Practices Act [Member] Oil-for-Food Program and Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Fair Value Guarantee [Member] Fair Value Guarantee [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Freedman v. Weatherford International Ltd., et al. [Member] [Member] Freedman v. Weatherford International Ltd., et al. [Member] [Member] Freedman v. Weatherford International Ltd., et al. [Member] U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas v. Weatherford International Ltd. [Member] U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas v. Weatherford International Ltd. [Member] U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas v. Weatherford International Ltd. [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Litigation Settlement, Amount Litigation Settlement, Amount Payments for legal settlements Payments for Legal Settlements Insurance Settlements Receivable Insurance Recoveries Loss Contingency Accrual Loss Contingency Accrual Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Components of Short-Term Borrowings Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table Text Block] 2014 & 2015 Plan [Member] 2014 & 2015 Plan [Member] 2014 & 2015 Plan Severance and Other Restructuring Liabilities [Member] Severance and Other Restructuring Liabilities [Member] Severance and Other Restructuring Liabilities [Member] Drilling Rigs [Member] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Accrued balance at beginning of period Restructuring Reserve Restructuring Charges Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost Cash Payments Payments for Restructuring Other Restructuring Reserve, Translation and Other Adjustment Accrued balance at end of period Goodwill Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Currency [Axis] Currency [Axis] All Currencies [Domain] All Currencies [Domain] Angola, Kwanza Angola, Kwanza Venezuelan bolívar fuerte Venezuelan bolívar fuerte Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Foreign Exchange Related Charges Foreign Currency Devaluation Loss, before Tax Foreign Currency Devaluation Loss, before Tax Foreign Translation, Currency Devaluation, Percentage Foreign Translation, Currency Devaluation, Percentage Foreign Translation, Currency Devaluation, Percentage Accounts Receivable, Net of Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts of $95 in 2016 and $113 in 2015 Receivables, Net, Current Inventories, Net Inventory, Net Prepaid Expenses Prepaid Expense, Current Deferred Tax Assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Other Current Assets Other Assets, Current Property, Plant and Equipment, Net of Accumulated Depreciation of $7,369 in 2016 and $7,235 in 2015 Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Goodwill Other Intangible Assets, Net of Accumulated Amortization of $818 in 2016 and $783 in 2015 Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Equity Investments Equity Method Investments Other Non-Current Assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Current Liabilities: Short-term Borrowings and Current Portion of Long-term Debt Accounts Payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued Salaries and Benefits Employee-related Liabilities, Current Income Taxes Payable Taxes Payable, Current Other Current Liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Other Non-Current Liabilities Shareholders’ Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Shares - Par Value $0.001; Authorized 1,356 shares, Issued and Outstanding 896 shares at June 30, 2016 and 779 shares at December 31, 2015 Common Stock, Value, Issued Retained (Deficit) Earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Weatherford Shareholders’ Equity Total Shareholders’ Equity Raw materials, components and supplies Inventory, Raw Materials and Supplies, Net of Reserves Work in process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Inventories, Net Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Components of Inventory Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Performance units [Member] Performance Shares [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Weighted-average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Fair value, risk-free rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Fair value, volatility rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Fair value, dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Unrecognized compensation expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Share-based Awards Other than Options Unrecognized compensation expense, recognition period Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] North America [Member] MENA/ Asia Pacific [Member] Europe/ SSA/ Russia [Member] Latin America [Member] Goodwill by Segment [Axis] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Balance at December 31, 2015 Foreign currency translation adjustments Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Balance at June 30, 2016 New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Long-term Debt [Member] Long-term Debt [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] Accounting Standard Update 2015-03 [Member] Accounting Standard Update 2015-03 [Member] Accounting Standard Update 2015-03 [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Lender Name [Axis] Lender Name [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Non-Extending Lenders [Member] Non-Extending Lenders [Member] Non-Extending Lenders [Member] Extending Lenders [Member] Extending Lenders [Member] Extending Lenders [Member] Tranche [Axis] Tranche [Axis] Tranche Tranche [Domain] Tranche [Domain] [Domain] for Tranche Tranche One [Member] Tranche One [Member] Tranche One Bi-Lateral Revolver Debt [Member] Bi-Lateral Revolver Debt [Member] Bi-Lateral Revolver Debt [Member] Committed letters of credit [Member] Committed Letters of Credit [Member] Committed Letters of Credit [Member] Domestic and foreign facility [Member] Domestic and Foreign Facility [Member] Domestic and Foreign Facility [Member] Uncommitted letters of credit [Member] Uncommitted Letters of Credit [Member] Uncommitted Letters of Credit [Member] Commitments Not Electing to Extend Maturity Commitments Not Electing to Extend Maturity Commitments Not Electing to Extend Maturity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Letters of credit outstanding, amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Short term borrowings Short-term Bank Loans and Notes Payable Performance bonds Performance Bonds Performance bonds with various domestic and international institutions. Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Covenant, Senior Leverage Ratio, Period One Debt Instrument, Covenant, Senior Leverage Ratio, Period One Debt Instrument, Covenant, Senior Leverage Ratio, Period One Debt Instrument, Covenant, Senior Leverage Ratio, Period Two Debt Instrument, Covenant, Senior Leverage Ratio, Period Two Debt Instrument, Covenant, Senior Leverage Ratio, Period Two Debt Instrument, Covenant, Specified Leverage and Letters of Credit Ratio, Period One Debt Instrument, Covenant, Specified Leverage and Letters of Credit Ratio, Period One Debt Instrument, Covenant, Specified Leverage and Letters of Credit Ratio, Period One Debt Instrument, Covenant, Specified Leverage and Letter of Credit Ratio, Period Two Debt Instrument, Covenant, Specified Leverage and Letter of Credit Ratio, Period Two Debt Instrument, Covenant, Specified Leverage and Letter of Credit Ratio, Period Two Debt Instrument, Covenant, Asset Coverage Ratio Debt Instrument, Covenant, Asset Coverage Ratio Debt Instrument, Covenant, Asset Coverage Ratio Anti-dilutive potential shares due to net loss Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings-per-Share Due to Net Loss, Amount Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings-per-Share Due to Net Loss, Amount Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Parent Company [Member] Parent Company [Member] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Charges from Parent or Subsidiary Adjustments Noncash Items Intercompany Charges To Reconcile Net Income Loss To Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities Intercompany charges that are eliminated in consolidation. Equity in (Earnings) Loss of Affiliates Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Deferred Income Tax Benefit Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Other Adjustments Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Operating Activities, Consolidating Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Operating Activities, Consolidating Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash Flows From Investing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital Expenditures for Property, Plant and Equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Acquisition of Intellectual Property Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets Insurance Proceeds Related to Rig Loss Proceeds from Insurance Settlement, Investing Activities Proceeds from Sale of Assets and Businesses, Net Proceeds from Sale of Assets and Divestitures of Businesses Proceeds from Sale of Assets and Divestitures of Businesses Other Investing Activities Capital Contribution To Subsidiary Contributions made to a party that is affiliated with the reporting entity by means of direct or indirect ownership. Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash Flows From Financing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Borrowings (Repayments) of Short-term Debt, Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt Borrowings (Repayments) Long-term Debt, Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Long-term Debt and Capital Securities Borrowings (Repayments) Between Subsidiaries, Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt from Subsidiaries, Net The cash inflow (outflow) from borrowings between subsidiaries of a common parent. Proceeds from Capital Contributions Proceeds from Capital Contributions Proceeds from Capital Contributions Other, Net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities, Consolidating The net cash inflow or outflow from other financing activities, including the exercise of warrants. This element is used when there is not a more specific and appropriate element in the taxonomy. Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Cash Equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Current Assets [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivative asset, fair value, gross Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative liability, fair value, gross Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Currency Translation Adjustment [Member] Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Defined Benefit Pension [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Deferred Loss on Derivatives [Member] Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward] AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) before Reclassifications Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Reclassifications Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Ending balance Contractors [Abstract] Percentage of Completion Contracts Long-term Contracts or Programs Disclosure [Text Block] General Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Receivables [Abstract] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] MEXICO MEXICO Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts receivable sold, carrying value Transfer of Accounts Receivable, Accounted for as Sales, Carrying Value Amount of receivables sold under an accounts receivable sales program. Proceeds from Sale of Accounts Receivable Proceeds from Sale of Accounts Receivable Proceeds from Sale of Accounts Receivable Gain (loss) on sale of accounts receivable Gain (Loss) on Sale of Accounts Receivable Receivable with Imputed Interest, Face Amount Receivable with Imputed Interest, Face Amount Trade Receivables Held-for-sale, Reconciliation to Cash Flow, Deductions from Held-for-sale Trade Receivables Held-for-sale, Reconciliation to Cash Flow, Deductions from Held-for-sale Receivable With Imputed Interest, Term Receivable With Imputed Interest, Term Receivable With Imputed Interest, Term Receivable with Imputed Interest, Effective Yield (Interest Rate) Receivable with Imputed Interest, Effective Yield (Interest Rate) Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs Schedule of long-term debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Secured Borrowings [Member] Secured Debt [Member] Capital and Other Lease Obligations [Member] Capital and Other Lease Obligations [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Other Long-term Debt [Member] Other long-term debt [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Senior Notes, 9.875% due 2039 [Member] Senior Notes, 9.875 Percent due 2039 [Member] Including the current and noncurrent portions, carrying value as of the balance sheet date of 9.875 percent Notes with the highest claim on the assets of the issuer in case of bankruptcy or liquidation, maturing in 2039. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Secured Borrowing, 4.82% [Member] Secured Borrowing, 4.82 Percent [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Total Less amounts due in one year Long-term debt Schedule of Restructuring Charges Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Billed and Unbilled Contract Claims Subject to Uncertainty [Table] Billed and Unbilled Contract Claims Subject to Uncertainty [Table] Billed and Unbilled Contract Claims Subject to Uncertainty [Table] IRAQ IRAQ Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Forecast Scenario, Forecast [Member] Billed and Unbilled Contract Claims Subject to Uncertainty [Line Items] Billed and Unbilled Contract Claims Subject to Uncertainty [Line Items] [Line Items] for Billed and Unbilled Contract Claims Subject to Uncertainty [Table] Loss on Contracts Loss on Contracts Total Estimated Loss on Contracts Total Estimated Loss on Contracts Total Estimated Loss on Contracts Proceeds from Legal Settlements Proceeds from Legal Settlements Accounts Receivable, Unapproved Contract Claims Accounts Receivable, Unapproved Contract Claims Deductions (Back Charges) Deductions (Charges) Billings in Excess of Cost Billings in Excess of Cost Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Other Asset Impairment Charges Other Asset Impairment Charges Pressure Pumping Related Charges Pressure Pumping Related Charges Pressure Pumping Related Charges Supply Agreement Charges related to Non-Core Business Divestiture Supply Agreement Charges related to Non-Core Business Divestiture Supply Agreement Charges related to Non-Core Business Divestiture Professional Fees Professional Fees Facility Closure Fees Facility Closure Fees Facility Closure Fees Other nonrecurring (income) expense Other Nonrecurring (Income) Expense Long-Lived Assets Impairment Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Operating Income (Loss) Depreciation and Amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Other Related Charges Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Other Related Charges Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Other Related Charges Goodwill, Impairment Loss Goodwill, Impairment Loss Research and Development Research and Development Expense Litigation Charges, Net Loss Contingency Accrual, Provision Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Business Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Business Other Nonoperating Expense Other Nonoperating Expense Other Expenses Other Expenses Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Products Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Services Sales Revenue, Services, Net Total Revenues Costs and Expenses: Cost of Revenue [Abstract] Cost of Products Cost of Goods Sold Cost of Services Cost of Services Selling, General and Administrative Attributable to Segments Selling, General and Administrative Expense, Portion Attributable to Segments Selling, General and Administrative Expense, Portion Attributable to Segments Corporate General and Administrative General and Administrative Expense Asset Write-Downs and Other Charges Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Equity Investment Impairment Goodwill and Equity Method Investments, Impairment Loss Loss recognized during the period that results from the write-down of goodwill and equity investments. Goodwill was deemed impaired after comparing the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. Goodwill is assessed at least annually for impairment. As part of the goodwill testing it was noted that the fair value attributable to certain equity investments was significantly below our book value for these investments and an other than temporary decline in fair value was recognized. Restructuring Charges Loss on Sale of Businesses, Net Total Costs and Expenses Currency Devaluation Charges Other, Net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income Tax Benefit Net Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests Loss Per Share Attributable to Weatherford: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted Average Shares Outstanding: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Schedule of Stockholders Equity Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivatives Instruments in Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position Schedule of Derivatives Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Short-term Borrowings and Other Debt Obligations Short-term Debt [Text Block] Fair Value and Carrying Value of Long-Term Debt Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Accounts Receivable Factoring and Other Receivables Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Restructuring Charges Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes Gain (Loss) Related to Litigation Settlement Gain (Loss) Related to Litigation Settlement Foreign Exchange Related Charges Uncertain tax positions, estimated for next twelve months Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Basis of Accounting Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Disputes, Litigation and Contingencies Legal Matters and Contingencies [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Adjustments to Reconcile Net Loss to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Employee Share-Based Compensation Expense Share-based Compensation Asset Write-Downs and Other Related Charges Restructuring Costs and Asset Impairment Charges Litigation Charges Litigation Settlement, Expense Bond Tender Premium Currency Devaluation Charges Other, Net Other Noncash Income (Expense) Change in Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net of Effect of Businesses Acquired: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts Receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Other Current Assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets Accounts Payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Trade Other Current Liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Liabilities Other, Net Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Capital Expenditures for Property, Plant and Equipment Acquisition of Intellectual Property Payment Related to Sale of Business Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Borrowings of Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Repayments of Long-term Debt, Long-term Capital Lease Obligations, and Capital Securities Proceeds from Issuance of Ordinary Common Shares Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Bond Tender Premium Payments for Bond Tender Premium Payments for Bond Tender Premium Other Financing Activities, Net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Supplemental Cash Flow Information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest Paid Interest Paid Income Taxes Paid, Net of Refunds Income Taxes Paid, Net Share-based compensation Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Related tax benefit Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Financial information by segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Axis] Net Operating Revenues Corporate and Research and Development Restructuring Charges Other Items Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Currency Translation Adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Defined Benefit Pension Activity Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Other Comprehensive Income, Other, Net of Tax Comprehensive Loss Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive Loss Attributable to Weatherford Shareholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract] New Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block]