Why Standard PDFs Are Not Archival-Safe

A standard PDF can rely on fonts installed on the reader's device, external web URLs, or dynamic JavaScript. If that external resource changes or disappears over time, the document cannot be accurately reproduced.

Key PDF/A Requirements

  • 100% Font Embedding: Every font used must be embedded in full or subset form inside the document container.
  • Color Spaces Defined: Color information must be specified in device-independent color spaces (such as sRGB or ICC profiles).
  • No Dynamic Content: JavaScript, audio, video, and Flash are strictly prohibited.
  • No Encryption: Archived files must be readable without proprietary authorization keys that could be lost over decades.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main PDF/A conformance levels?

Common levels include PDF/A-1b (visual preservation), PDF/A-1a (visual + accessibility tags), PDF/A-2 (supports JPEG 2000 and transparency), and PDF/A-3 (allows embedding arbitrary attachments like XML invoices).

When should I use PDF/A?

Use PDF/A for contracts, patents, tax returns, architectural blueprints, medical histories, and institutional records destined for multi-year preservation.