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Convert PDF to PDF/A

Convert working PDFs to PDF/A for long-term archiving and records-retention compliance.

Convert PDF to PDF/A

Convert working PDFs to PDF/A for long-term archiving and records-retention compliance.

Why use PDFWix to convert PDFs

• Completely free: convert as many PDFs as you need without paying a cent or hitting a paywall.
• No signup required: Skip account creation. Just upload, convert, and download.
• Works on any device: Whether you're on Windows, Mac, Linux, iPhone, or Android — PDFWix runs entirely in your browser.
• Privacy first: Your file never leaves your device — convert runs locally in your browser using WebAssembly and pdf-lib.
• Lightning fast: Most convert jobs finish in under 10 seconds, even for large files.
• Preserves quality: Text, images, and formatting stay exactly as they were in the original PDF.

Common uses for converting PDFs

• PDF to PDF/A for monthly reports and expense filings
• PDF to PDF/A for academic papers and references
• PDF to PDF/A for contracts and signature workflows
• PDF to PDF/A for ebooks and training manuals
• PDF to PDF/A for tax documents and accountant submissions

How to PDF to PDF/A

1. Upload your file — Click "Select PDF files" or drag and drop the document into the upload box. Multiple files are supported where it makes sense.
2. Configure options — Pick the settings on the right — the defaults work for 90% of jobs, so most users can skip straight to the next step.
3. Click "PDF to PDF/A" — PDFWix processes the file instantly in your browser. No upload progress bar, no waiting.
4. Download the result — Save the new file to your device. The original file is never modified.

Tips for converting PDFs

• PDF/A-2b is the safe default — PDF/A-1 is older and stricter; PDF/A-3 allows attachments. PDF/A-2b is the modern standard for most archival needs.
• Embed all fonts — PDF/A requires every font to be embedded. We do this automatically — just expect a slight file-size bump.
• No encryption allowed — PDF/A explicitly forbids encryption. Don't try to combine with [Protect PDF](/protect-pdf) — they're mutually exclusive.
• Validate after converting — Use a PDF/A validator (e.g. veraPDF) for legal/government submissions. We produce compliant output, but auditors often want proof.
• Once archived, freeze the source — PDF/A is meant for the final, immutable version. Keep your editable source separately.

Frequently asked questions

Is the PDFWix pdf to pdf/a tool really free?

Yes. PDF to PDF/A is 100% free, with no hidden charges, no signup, and no watermarks added to the output.

Are my files safe when I use PDF to PDF/A?

Yes. PDF to PDF/A runs entirely in your browser using pdf-lib — your file is never uploaded or sent to any server at any point. Nothing to delete because nothing was ever received.

Will PDF to PDF/A reduce the quality of my document?

No. PDFWix preserves the original quality of your file, including text, images, fonts, and formatting.

Can I use PDF to PDF/A on mobile?

Absolutely. PDFWix works on any device with a browser — phones, tablets, laptops, or desktops. No app installation required.

Do I need to create an account?

No. You can use every PDFWix tool without signing up. An optional free account just keeps a history of your conversions (filename and tool only).