PDF to PDF/A

Convert standard PDF to PDF/A archival format online. Embed fonts and remove external dependencies for long-term preservation.

Upload your file

Start by picking a document from your computer.

Select files for PDF to PDF/A

or drop files here (Max 10MB)

Select files

or drop files here (Max 10MB)

PDF/A-2 output

Archive-oriented copy

Ghostscript processing

Original file unchanged

How to use PDF to PDF/A

Upload your PDF

Create the PDF/A copy

Download the archive file

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PDF/A and when should I use it?

PDF/A is an ISO-standardized version of PDF designed for long-term archiving. It embeds all fonts and removes external dependencies so the document looks the same decades later.

Will PDF/A conversion change my document appearance?

The visual appearance should remain identical. The tool embeds fonts and adjusts metadata while preserving your page content, images, and layout.

What is the difference between PDF and PDF/A?

A regular PDF may rely on external fonts, hyperlinks, or encryption that can break over time. PDF/A is self-contained and future-proof for archival purposes.

Can I edit a PDF/A file later?

PDF/A files are meant for preservation, not editing. Keep the original PDF for future edits and use the PDF/A version for submission and archiving.

Is PDF/A required for government submissions?

Many government agencies, courts, and institutional archives require PDF/A format. Check your specific submission guidelines before converting.

When to use this tool

Convert a standard PDF into PDF/A format for long-term archiving. PDF/A embeds fonts, removes external dependencies, and ensures the document looks the same decades from now.

Government or institutional archives require PDF/A submission.
A document must be preserved in a self-contained future-proof format.
Compliance rules mandate PDF/A for official records.

Tips for best results

Check font embedding and color profiles before final submission.
Verify that all page content renders correctly in a PDF/A validator.
Keep the original PDF alongside the PDF/A version for editing needs.

Privacy and file retention

The PDF is temporarily converted to PDF/A format. Input and output files are scheduled for deletion within approximately 30 minutes.

Guides for PDF to PDF/A

Go deeper on the most common use cases, delivery workflows, and failure points around this tool.

compress scanned pdf

How to Reduce Scanned PDF File Size

Scanned PDFs are often large. Learn how to reduce scanned PDF size with compression and OCR-friendly workflows.

make scanned pdf searchable

How to Make a Scanned PDF Searchable

Use OCR to turn scanned PDF pages into searchable text so you can find words inside the document.

Related tools

Continue with nearby tasks using the same secure workflow.