PDF to PDF/A
Save PDF as PDF/A, the archiving format required by public agencies.
Deleted from our servers as soon as processing endsHow to convert a PDF to PDF/A
- 1 Add your PDFs Choose one or more files, or drag them into the box.
- 2 Choose the version PDF/A-2b works in most cases.
- 3 Download Get your PDF/A. Multiple files come in a ZIP.
Why convert a PDF to PDF/A
PDF/A is a version of PDF designed for long-term archiving. The file embeds everything it needs to display the same way years from now: fonts, color profiles, metadata. That's why government agencies, courts and filing platforms ask you to convert PDF to PDF/A before you send them documents.
The conversion relies on OCRmyPDF, without character recognition: the content of your pages is not changed. PDF/A-1b is the oldest and strictest version, PDF/A-3b allows attachments. If an organization requires a specific version, choose it. Otherwise, PDF/A-2b is the safest choice.
Frequently asked questions
Are my files safe?
They are processed on our servers and deleted as soon as the PDF/A is sent back to you. Nothing is kept, viewed or shared.
Which version should I pick when I convert PDF to PDF/A?
The one the receiving organization asks for. If none is specified, PDF/A-2b, the version accepted in most cases.
Does the text in my scan become searchable?
No, this conversion doesn't do character recognition. Run your scan through the OCR PDF tool first if you need it.
My PDF is password protected, is that a problem?
Yes, a PDF/A can't be encrypted. Remove the protection first with Unlock PDF.
Can I convert several PDFs at once?
Yes, up to 20 files, 100 MB max each. You get them back together in a ZIP archive.
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