PDF to PDF/A: convert PDF for long-term archiving
Convert a PDF to the PDF/A archiving standard so it looks the same in the future, for archives and official submissions.
Accepted formats: PDF. Up to 2000 pages per document. Up to 500 MB in total per upload.
Levels 1a, 2a, and 3a are not offered yet. Levels other than 3b and 3u remove PDF attachments.
How to convert PDF to PDF/A
Add files
Choose a PDF, or drag it onto the upload box.
Convert
Pick the PDF/A level. PDF/A-2b suits most purposes; press Convert.
Download
Download the PDF/A file and keep it as your archive copy.
Free, no sign-up
No account
No sign-up or sign-in needed.
No cost
Completely free, with no paid version.
Not stored
Converted files are deleted automatically after download.
Frequently asked questions
Which PDF/A level should I choose?
Follow the recipient's requirement if there is one. Without a specific rule, PDF/A-2b is the most widely accepted. Choose 2u or 3u if the text needs to be searchable and copyable correctly.
What happens to attachments inside the PDF?
PDF/A-3b and 3u keep attachments, so e-invoices that carry XML data stay intact. The other levels do not allow attachments, so those are removed.
Why are levels 1a, 2a, and 3a missing?
The “a” levels require a tagged structure that describes the reading order and the role of every part. That structure cannot be honestly invented for a PDF that does not have it, so those levels are not offered yet.
