PDF to PDF/A, Create archive-ready PDF, free online
Convert PDF files to the ISO standard PDF/A for legally secure long-term archiving. Fonts are automatically embedded. 100% free, no registration, GDPR-compliant.
How it works, PDF to PDF/A in 3 steps
Choose version
Select the desired PDF/A version (1b recommended).
Choose PDF/A version
Select the desired PDF/A version: PDF/A-1b for maximum compatibility (recommended), PDF/A-2b for the more modern standard, or PDF/A-3b with attachments.
Download PDF/A
Download your archive-ready PDF/A. All fonts are embedded and the document complies with the ISO standard.
PDF/A Converter, What is PDF/A and why do you need it?
With the PDF/A converter from PDF Monster, you can convert ordinary PDF files into the archive-ready PDF/A format. PDF/A is an ISO-standardized file format (ISO 19005) specifically designed for the long-term archiving of electronic documents. Unlike regular PDFs, PDF/A guarantees that the document will be displayed exactly as it was at the time of creation, even decades later.
The most widely used standard is PDF/A-1b (based on PDF 1.4). The "b" stands for "basic" and ensures that the visual appearance remains permanently reproducible. All fonts used are embedded in the file, transparencies are flattened, and external dependencies are removed. Government agencies, courts, and archives in Germany and the EU frequently require PDF/A as a submission format.
Your data is safe with us
Data security is our top priority at PDF Monster. We know you trust us with confidential documents, and we take that responsibility seriously.
Encrypted transfer
All data is transmitted via a 256-bit SSL-encrypted connection. Third parties cannot access your files during upload.
Automatic deletion
After processing, your files are automatically removed from our servers. No copies are left behind.
No sharing with third parties
Your documents are never shared with third parties, not used for advertising, and not permanently stored.
Servers in the EU
Processing takes place on servers in Germany. Compliance with GDPR and European data protection standards is guaranteed.
Typical use cases for PDF/A conversion
Government documents
Many government agencies and public institutions require documents to be submitted in PDF/A format. Convert applications, forms, and official notices to meet the standards.
Archiving invoices
Electronic invoices must be archived in a tamper-proof manner according to legal requirements. PDF/A ensures the unalterable long-term storage of your receipts.
Legal documents
Courts and law firms are increasingly relying on PDF/A for electronic legal correspondence. Ensure your legal briefs meet the requirements.
Tax documents
Tax returns and receipts in PDF/A format meet the retention requirements of tax authorities and remain readable throughout the required retention periods.
Securing contracts
Convert important contracts, agreements, and deeds to PDF/A so they remain unchanged and complete in the long term.
Standards compliance
Companies that are ISO-certified or must meet regulatory requirements need PDF/A for standards-compliant document storage.
Why use PDF Monster for PDF/A?
ISO standard
Full compliance with ISO 19005 for long-term archiving.
Embedded fonts
All fonts are embedded to guarantee correct display.
100% Secure
SSL encryption, automatic deletion after 1 hour.
Government-compliant
Meets the requirements of government agencies and archives.
Frequently asked questions about PDF to PDF/A conversion
What is PDF/A?
PDF/A is an ISO standard for long-term archiving of documents. It guarantees that the document can still be correctly displayed even decades from now.
Why should I use PDF/A?
PDF/A is ideal for legal documents, invoices, and important records that need to be archived long-term. Many government agencies require this format.
Are all fonts embedded?
Yes, all fonts are fully embedded in the file. This ensures the document is always displayed correctly regardless of the system.
Which PDF/A version is created?
PDF/A-1b is created, the most widely used and compatible standard. This version is supported by all common PDF readers.
Is the file size larger?
The file may become slightly larger due to font embedding. However, the advantage is that the document is displayed identically everywhere.
Convert PDF to PDF/A, free and without software
PDF Monster offers you a complete collection of free PDF tools. In addition to converting to PDF/A, you can also compress, merge, split, edit your documents or convert them to other formats like Word and Excel. All tools work directly in your browser, are GDPR-compliant, and require no installation or registration.