PDF to PDF/A: how it works
To convert a PDF to PDF/A for archiving, open the PDF to PDF/A tool and add your file; PDFER converts it to the ISO 19005 archival format in your browser, embedding the metadata and output intent PDF/A requires. The file is never uploaded.
How to use PDF to PDF/A
- Open the PDF to PDF/A tool and add your PDF.
- Let PDFER apply the PDF/A structure and metadata locally.
- Download the PDF/A file.
In your browser vs. uploading to a server
Best for meeting long-term archiving or compliance requirements (PDF/A-2b) without a paid desktop tool. PDF/A makes a document self-contained so it renders the same way years later.
Frequently asked questions
What is PDF/A and how do I convert to it?
- PDF/A is an ISO standard for long-term archiving that embeds fonts and colour data so a file stays reproducible over time. Add your PDF to the PDF to PDF/A tool and download the converted, archival version.
Are my files uploaded to a server?
- No. PDFER runs entirely in your browser using WebAssembly and JavaScript. Your files are read into memory on your device, processed locally, and never sent to PDFER or any third party. Closing the tab or leaving the tool erases them from memory.
PDFER is a privacy-first PDF toolkit built by Kiril Urbonas. Every tool runs entirely in your browser — see our security model and privacy policy.