PDF/A: The Essentials for Legal Archiving
The PDF/A format (ISO 19005) for long-term archiving. Versions, compliance, local conversion.
What is PDF/A?
PDF/A is a standardized version of PDF (ISO 19005) designed specifically for long-term archiving. Unlike standard PDF, PDF/A embeds all fonts and resources necessary to guarantee the document will display the same way decades from now.
PDF/A prohibits elements that could become obsolete: external fonts, JavaScript, encrypted content, embedded audio/video.
Different PDF/A versions
PDF/A-1 (2005): the first standard. Conformance level a (base) or b (visual).
PDF/A-2 (2011): adds JPEG2000 compression, transparency, layers. Levels a, b, u (unicode).
PDF/A-3 (2012): allows embedding annex files (XML, CSV, etc.) in the PDF. Used for electronic invoicing.
SafePDF converts to PDF/A-2b, the best compromise between compliance and compatibility.
When to use PDF/A?
Legal archiving: notaries, lawyers, departmental archives, legal departments.
Electronic invoicing: B2B electronic invoicing in France requires PDF/A-3 format.
Official documents: diplomas, deeds, certificates.
Long-term retention: any document that must remain readable in 10, 20, or 50 years.
How to convert to PDF/A with SafePDF
1. Open the "PDF/A" tool in SafePDF.
2. Select your PDF.
3. Click "Convert". SafePDF uses Ghostscript for PDF/A-2b conversion.
4. Save the PDF/A.
Conversion preserves visual appearance while embedding fonts and removing non-compliant elements.
SafePDF processes all your PDFs 100% locally. No file ever leaves your machine.