What is PDF/A, and when should you use it?
PDF/A is a restricted, self-contained version of PDF defined by ISO 19005 for long-term archiving. It requires everything needed to reproduce the document — fonts, color information — to be embedded, and forbids features that could break in the future, like external links to fonts, encryption, or JavaScript.
PDF/A vs a regular PDF
A normal PDF can rely on fonts installed on the reader's machine and can include interactive or encrypted content. Years later those dependencies may be gone, and the document may not render the same way.
PDF/A removes that risk by embedding fonts and color profiles and disallowing anything non-self-contained, so the file looks the same decades from now. The trade-off is a slightly larger file and no encryption.
When to use it
Use PDF/A for records you must keep and reproduce faithfully over time — legal filings, invoices, contracts, government and compliance archives.
For everyday sharing where you may want passwords or small size, a regular PDF is usually the better choice.
Converting to PDF/A
Open PDF to PDF/A, add your file, and download a PDF/A-2b copy — PDFER adds the archival scaffolding (embedded sRGB profile, XMP metadata, document ID, flattened forms) in your browser. Conversion is most complete when the source already embeds its fonts.
Tools mentioned in this guide
Frequently asked
- Can I convert a PDF to PDF/A for free?
- Yes. PDFER's PDF to PDF/A tool converts to PDF/A-2b entirely in your browser, free and without uploading the file.
- Does PDF/A support passwords?
- No. PDF/A forbids encryption so the file stays openable long-term. If you need a password, keep a regular PDF and use the Protect tool instead.