Convert a PDF to archival PDF/A document format

Prepare a PDF for long-term archiving with PDF/A-1b, PDF/A-2b or PDF/A-3b compatibility and standardized color handling.

  • 1 free task a day, no account needed
  • No watermarks
  • Encrypted in transit
  • Deleted automatically

PDF to PDF/A online, free

Create an archival PDF/A copy of an existing PDF for records retention and document repositories. Choose PDF/A-1b, 2b or 3b, with 2b as the default; the conversion applies standardized RGB color handling and may alter unsupported PDF features.

Good for: records retention, institutional archives, compliance handoffs.

  • Archival profiles
  • Long-term focus
  • Familiar file
  • Archival profiles

    Select the PDF/A part required by your records policy.

  • Long-term focus

    Produce a standardized PDF intended for reliable future rendering.

  • Familiar file

    The result remains a PDF, rather than an image-only export.

  • Works on any device

    PDF to PDF/A runs in the browser on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS and Android. Nothing to install.

How to convert a PDF to archival PDF/A document format

  1. 1

    Upload the PDF to archive.

  2. 2

    Choose PDF/A-1b, PDF/A-2b or PDF/A-3b.

  3. 3

    Download the converted PDF and validate it for your archive.

Limits and formats

Input
PDF
Output
PDF/A
Files per run
One file
Max file size
25 MB for guests; free account 50 MB, Premium 500 MB
Kept for
1 hour, then deleted
Account
Not required

Frequently asked questions

Which PDF/A level should I use?

2b is the default for visual preservation with modern PDF features. Use 1b or 3b when your repository specifically requires that level.

Does PDF/A guarantee my archive will accept the file?

No. Repository policies differ; run the resulting file through your archive's PDF/A validator before submission.

Can conversion change colors or interactive features?

Yes. The process standardizes color handling and PDF/A restricts certain PDF features; compare the output to the source.

What is the free file size limit?

Guests can upload files up to 25 MB each. A free account raises the limit to 50 MB per file, and Premium allows 500 MB per file with larger batches.

Are uploaded documents private?

Files are encrypted in transit and automatically deleted after a short time following processing.

Anything missing? Read how files are handled or write to support.

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