PDF to PDF/A

Prepare documents for long-term archiving.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

How do you prepare a PDF/A-compliant file?

Identify the required archival profile, create it in a capable application and run a real validator.

  1. Identify the profile

    Ask which PDF/A version and conformance level the recipient requires.

  2. Create an archival copy

    Use the relevant profile in an application that exports PDF/A.

  3. Open a validator

    Select the file and target validation profile in a tool such as veraPDF.

  4. Review the report

    Inspect failed rules and validate again after making corrections.

This guide explains the general workflow in an application that supports the operation. This version offers file selection and type/size checks; it does not generate processed output.

Frequently asked questions

Answers about the workflow, file quality, and situations you may encounter.

What is PDF/A used for?

It is a family of PDF formats for long-term preservation that limits dependencies outside the document.

Why does font embedding matter?

PDF/A requires necessary fonts inside the file; missing fonts can change appearance during conversion.

Can a PDF/A file be password-encrypted?

PDF/A does not permit encryption; account for this when creating an archival copy.

Is a PDF/A file automatically accessible?

No; PDF/A conformance alone does not guarantee PDF/UA conformance or a correct reading order.

Is a PDF/A metadata label enough?

No; the conformance claim must be checked against the standard’s rules. veraPDF implements checks for those requirements.

Can I complete the operation and download a file on this page?

This version supports file selection and checks of file type, size, and count. Processing is not connected, so it does not convert, edit, or generate downloads. The guide describes a workflow in an application that supports the operation.

Which file types and sizes can I select?

This tool accepts PDF file extensions. You can select up to 20 files, with a 25 MB per-file limit and 100 MB total. Checking an extension does not verify that the file contents are valid or undamaged.

Are my selected files sent to a server?

In this version, file contents are not read or uploaded. Selections stay in the tab’s memory and are cleared on refresh. File names, extensions, and sizes are used only to display and check your selection.