Will your PDF open in 2050?

You might think a PDF is static, but standard PDFs often rely on external resources:

• System Fonts: If you use "Helvetica" and the future computer doesn't have it, the text layout breaks.
• External Links: Hyperlinks to websites that no longer exist.
• Encryption: Passwords that might be forgotten.

Enter PDF/A (Archive)

ISO 19005 is a standardized version of PDF specialized for the long-term preservation of electronic documents.

Key Restrictions of PDF/A

1. Must Embed Fonts: The font file must be saved inside the PDF.
2. No Audio/Video: Moving media corrupts over time.
3. No Encryption: Passwords are forbidden because we can't guarantee the key will exist in 100 years.
4. No Javascript: Executable code is a security risk and compatibility nightmare.

When to use it?

• Legal Wills & Contracts: Documents that need to be read after you are gone.
• Government Submissions: Many courts require PDF/A-1b format.
• Thesis/Dissertations: Academic libraries mandate it.

How to convert?

Use a converter that supports "Archival" settings. Verify the output with a validator to ensure it meets ISO standards.

If you are saving something for the history books, don't just "Save as PDF". Save as PDF/A.