About PDF to PDF/A
PDF/A is a version of PDF made for long-term storage. Everything needed to display the file, such as fonts and colour information, is stored inside it, so it looks the same in decades.
Courts, land registries, universities and public agencies often ask for PDF/A. Features that don’t belong in an archive, such as JavaScript and encryption, are not allowed in the format.
What PDF/A changes
| Item | In PDF/A |
|---|---|
| Fonts | Embedded in the file |
| Colours | Fixed with a colour profile |
| Encryption and passwords | Not allowed |
| JavaScript and multimedia | Not allowed |
Before you submit
Check which PDF/A level the receiving office asks for; most accept the output of standard converters. Merge, number and sign-off edits should happen before conversion, because later edits can break PDF/A conformance.
How to use it
- 1Choose or drop a PDF
- 2Convert to PDF/A
- 3Download the archive copy
Questions
Will the PDF look different?
Usually not. Fonts are embedded and colours are fixed so the file displays the same everywhere.
Can I convert a password-protected PDF?
No. PDF/A does not allow encryption. Remove the password with Unlock PDF first.
Why is the file larger?
Embedded fonts and colour profiles add some size. That is what makes the file self-contained.