catScan

PDF to PDF/A

Convert to PDF/A for long-term archiving.

Passes through our server, never stored

  1. 1Choose the files
  2. 2Arrange and adjust
  3. 3Download

You need to sign in to use the tools. It's free.

8 free uses a month · Plus is unlimited

PDF/A is the standard for archiving documents so they look the same years from now. The conversion creates PDF/A-2b with embedded fonts and a color profile.

How to convert PDF to PDF/A in 3 steps

  1. Select the PDF to archive.

  2. Convert it: the file is processed in memory on our server.

  3. Download the PDF/A file.

Why use catScan

  • Never stored

    The file passes through our server only to be converted: it is processed in memory, never stored or logged, and deleted as soon as you get the result.

  • Free to start

    Sign in with Google and get 8 free uses per period, shared with the catScan app. 1 use = 1 downloaded file; if something fails, it doesn't count.

  • Nothing to install

    It works in any modern browser on computer, tablet or phone. To scan paper with your camera, use the Android app.

Frequently asked questions

What is PDF/A used for?

It is required by many public bodies, courts and archives because it guarantees that the document can be displayed the same way in the future.

Which PDF/A version is created?

PDF/A-2b, with all fonts embedded and a color profile.

Are my files stored?

No. The file passes through our server only to be converted: it is processed in memory, it is not stored or logged, and it is deleted as soon as you receive the result.

Is it free?

Yes. Sign in with your Google account and you get 8 uses per period on the free plan (1 use = 1 downloaded file; if something fails, it doesn't count). catScan Plus, bought in the Android app, is unlimited on the web and in the app.

Does it work on my phone?

Yes. It works in any modern browser on Android, iPhone, Windows, Mac or Linux, with nothing to install. The catScan Android app also lets you scan documents with the camera.