PDF/A is an ISO-standardized format for long-term archiving. Unlike a normal PDF, it forbids encryption and requires that all fonts and color information be embedded. That means your file opens identically in 20 years, on any system, without needing the original software or fonts. GekiPDF converts your PDF to PDF/A-2b, embedding fonts and an output intent automatically.
Who asks for PDF/A? Courts, archives, government agencies, and many regulated industries (like finance or healthcare) require it when you submit documents for record retention. If you send a plain PDF to a German archive or a US federal court, they may reject it. Converting takes seconds here: upload up to 50 MB, get a compliant file back, no account needed. Your file is deleted after one hour.
Frequently asked questions
What does PDF/A-2b actually change in my file?
It embeds every font used and adds an output intent (color profile). It also disallows encryption and audio/video. The visual look stays the same, but the file becomes self-contained for archiving.
Can I convert a password-protected PDF to PDF/A?
No. Encryption is not allowed in PDF/A. Remove the password first using GekiPDF's unlock tool, then convert. If the file has restrictions, you'll need to unlock it before conversion.
How long does the conversion take and are there limits?
Most files under 10 MB convert in seconds. You can process up to 40 files per hour per IP address, and each file must be under 50 MB. No signup or watermark.
Do it in the full tool
Open PDF to PDF/A for all options, or jump straight to another step below.
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