What is PDF/A?
PDF/A is a PDF format intended for long term archiving. It tries to keep the file self contained by limiting features that can depend on outside resources.
PDF to PDF/A
Convert a PDF into an archive-friendly PDF/A copy
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Create an Archive-Friendly PDF Copy
PDF/A is used for records, archives, official submissions and long-term document storage. It is designed to make a PDF more self-contained by embedding resources that a reader may need later.
PDF/A-2B or PDF/A-1B
PDF/A-2B is a good default for many current documents. PDF/A-1B is older and sometimes requested by legacy systems. If an organization gives you a specific requirement, choose that level.
Validate When Required
PDFem creates a PDF/A-style output, but formal compliance can depend on the source file and the validator used by the receiving organization. If a court, agency or archive requires strict PDF/A validation, check the downloaded file with their accepted validator.
How to Convert PDF to PDF/A
1
Upload your PDF
Choose the PDF you want to prepare for archiving.
2
Choose PDF/A level
Use PDF/A-2B for most files or PDF/A-1B when required.
3
Convert and download
Download the PDF/A copy and validate it if strict compliance is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I convert a PDF to PDF/A?
Use PDF/A when a document needs to be archived, submitted to a system that requests PDF/A or stored for long term records. It is common for records, compliance files and official document workflows.
Can PDFem certify PDF/A compliance?
No. PDFem can convert the file toward a PDF/A output, but certification and formal validation are separate checks. If a court, archive, government portal or records system requires PDF/A, validate the finished file with the checker that system recommends.
Which PDF/A level should I choose?
Choose the level required by the receiving system. If there is no requirement, use the default option and validate the result if the archive requirement is important.
Can PDF/A conversion change file size?
Yes. PDF/A conversion can increase file size because the output may need embedded fonts, color information or other self contained resources. It can also change how some unsupported features are handled.
What should I check after converting to PDF/A?
Open the output and review pages, fonts, images and form content. If a government, legal or records system requires PDF/A, run the file through the validator that system recommends.