Convert PDF to PDF/A
Make the archival PDF/A file that courts, tax offices and e-filing portals ask for. Text stays real text wherever possible.
- PDF/A-2b or PDF/A-3b
- Keeps text selectable and sharp
- Fonts embedded, sRGB colour profile
- Runs on your device, no upload
Click on the page to place your text.
How to convert PDF to PDF/A
- Step 1Add your PDFDrop the file the portal rejected, or any PDF you need to archive.
- Step 2Choose the versionPDF/A-2b suits almost every portal. Keep the default conversion unless the result is still rejected.
- Step 3Convert to PDF/ADownload the archival copy and upload it to the portal.
Questions
Which PDF/A version should I choose?
PDF/A-2b, unless the portal names another. It is accepted by most courts and e-filing systems and allows modern features like transparency. PDF/A-3b is the same with permission for attachments; PDFToast removes attachments either way.
Will my text still be selectable?
Yes in most files. Pages only become images when they use a font that is not inside the file (other than Helvetica or Arial, which are replaced by the metric-compatible Liberation Sans) or CMYK print colours. Those pages keep an invisible text layer, so you can still search and copy.
What does the conversion remove?
PDF/A forbids passwords, JavaScript, attachments, sound and video. Those are removed, and you are told when that happened. Visible content is kept.
Does it make PDF/A-1b?
No. It makes PDF/A-2b and PDF/A-3b, which most portals accept. PDF/A-1 is an older version that forbids transparency.
Is it free to convert a PDF to PDF/A?
Yes. It is free with no sign-up and no watermark. The free plan covers up to 50 tasks a day; Pro removes every limit.
Do you upload my files?
No. The tool runs inside your browser using WebAssembly. Your file never leaves your device, and it still works with Wi-Fi turned off.
Does it work on my phone?
Yes. It works in Chrome, Safari, Edge and Firefox on Android, iPhone, Windows, Mac and Linux.