Question 1

Is converting PDF to PDF/A free and secure?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the service is completely free. No registration is required, there are no hidden costs, and PDFs are created without watermarks. For more information, visit: ilovepdf.com/en/help/security

Question 2

Are my files stored after uploading or automatically deleted?

Accepted Answer

All files you upload are protected throughout the entire process. They are used exclusively to create your desired output file (e.g., PDF file), and all data is always transmitted encrypted.

If you don't delete them manually, the system automatically and permanently deletes your files after a maximum of 2 hours. This excludes third-party access. There is no permanent storage. For more information, see: ilovepdf.com/en/help/legal

Question 3

Why should I convert my PDF to PDF/A at all?

Accepted Answer

PDF/A is the archival format for long-term, revision-safe document storage. Authorities, companies, and courts often require it for compliance, audit, and long-term archiving.

Question 4

Which PDF/A standard do I need? PDF/A-1, PDF/A-2, or PDF/A-3?

Accepted Answer

PDF/A-1 is the classic for strict archiving, PDF/A-2 supports transparencies, PDF/A-3 allows embedding additional files (e.g., XML, Excel). The choice depends on the intended use. Detailed information about the different PDF standards can be found here: pdfa.org/about-us/the-portable-document-format/

Question 5

Does PDF to PDF/A conversion also work on mobile, tablet, Mac, or PC?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use the Mobile App for free on your phone at ilovepdf.com/en/mobile (iOS / Android). The tool also works directly in the internet browser on your phone and tablet.

Another option is to convert your documents offline , meaning not over the online service but locally on your device. This option is available for Mac and Windows: ilovepdf.com/en/desktop You can also download the iLovePDF app from the Microsoft Store.

Question 6

Is PDF/A legally valid for authorities, contracts, and companies?

Accepted Answer

PDF/A is not a legal document per se, but it is the internationally recognized, standardized archival format required by authorities, courts, and companies for storing documents in a revision-proof, long-term readable, and unalterable way. For more information, see here: pdfa.org/about-us/the-portable-document-format/

Contracts are legally valid in any format as long as the signature is legally binding (including qualified e-signatures). Many authorities and courts still require PDF/A for filing so that the document can be displayed platform-independently and unchanged even after 30+ years.

If you have further questions, you can contact support at any time. ilovepdf.com/contact

Question 7

Can I also convert large or scanned PDFs into PDF/A?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Scanned documents are also supported. Often, OCR text recognition is recommended to keep the file searchable. Large PDFs work depending on the limit (4 GB).

Convert PDF to PDF/A

Convert PDF to PDF/A for legally compliant long-term archiving

Short video tutorial in 4 steps

Instructions

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Support

Privacy & Security (GDPR and GDPR)