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PDF to PDF/A

Convert your PDF to an archival-compliant PDF/A document. Choose a compliance level and ensure your files are preserved for the long term.

Drop your PDF here

PDF file, up to 100 MB·click to browse

What is PDF/A?

PDF/A is an ISO-standardized subset of PDF designed for long-term digital preservation. Unlike regular PDFs, a PDF/A file embeds all fonts, color profiles, and metadata needed to render the document identically years or decades from now — without relying on external resources.

Why does it matter?

Government agencies, courts, universities, and corporations require PDF/A for official records. If you're archiving contracts, legal filings, research papers, or financial reports, PDF/A ensures the document will be readable by future software without any visual degradation or missing fonts.

Which compliance level should I pick?

  • PDF/A-1b — the original standard (ISO 19005-1). Best for maximum compatibility with older validators and archives.
  • PDF/A-2b — adds JPEG2000 compression, transparency layers, and the ability to attach other PDF/A files. Good default for most use cases.
  • PDF/A-3b — same as 2b but lets you embed any file type (XML, CSV, spreadsheets). Useful for e-invoicing (ZUGFeRD/Factur-X) and data-rich documents.
How to convert a PDF to PDF/A

Produce an archival-quality PDF/A file from a regular PDF.

  1. Open PDF to PDF/A

    Go to makemypdf.com/pdf-to-pdfa.

  2. Upload your PDF

    Drop the file onto the upload area.

  3. Convert

    The backend embeds the missing fonts and color profiles required by PDF/A.

  4. Download the PDF/A file

    Save the archival PDF to your device.

Frequently asked questions
Which PDF/A profile is produced?

PDF/A-2b by default, which is the most widely-accepted archival profile.

Why not do this client-side?

PDF/A requires embedding missing fonts and ICC color profiles, which is heavyweight to ship in a browser bundle.

Is my file deleted after conversion?

Yes. Uploaded files are deleted as soon as the job finishes.