PDF Ready

2 MB for upload

Compress a PDF to 2 MB for upload on Android

2 MB is a common strict upload target, especially around CEAC and some IRCC paths, but it is not universal. Confirm the destination rule, then prepare the least aggressive copy that satisfies it.

Install PDF Ready on Google Play Prepare your PDF before upload
Android-first On-device by default Review before clean export

When 2 MB is the right target

  • CEAC/NVC document uploads are a clear 2 MB use case.
  • Some IRCC paths and online applications use 2 MB, while others allow 4 MB or more.
  • Use GENERAL 2 MB when the destination simply says PDF under 2 MB and is not CEAC or IRCC.

What to avoid when size matters

  • Do not enable OCR just because it is available; use it only when searchable text is required.
  • Do not use PDF/A-2b unless the destination asks for that compatibility format.
  • Do not reduce to 300 KB if 2 MB is allowed and readability matters.

Review the 2 MB result

  • Check current file size, upload limit, and whether PDF Ready says the file needs reduction.
  • Open the preview and inspect stamps, signatures, photos, and fine print.
  • Export the clean copy only when the result is both under size and readable.

If 2 MB is not enough

  • Improve the source scan with lower noise and better lighting.
  • Use a larger allowed target such as 4 MB if the destination supports it.
  • If a portal rejects a file under 2 MB, check format, password protection, forms, and filename rules.

2 MB decision checklist

  • If the upload is CEAC/NVC, use the CEAC path and keep the file under 2 MB.
  • If the upload is IRCC, confirm whether your account path says 2 MB or 4 MB before choosing.
  • If the document is already under 2 MB but rejected, treat it as a compatibility problem, not a size problem.
  • If the prepared file is under 2 MB but unreadable, improve the scan or use a larger allowed target.

Real Android capture

Compress a PDF to 2 MB for upload on Android size selection in PDF Ready

PDF Ready size selector showing the 2 MB target selected
Choose the 2 MB target, then reopen the selector to confirm it is selected.
PDF Ready Prepare screen with GENERAL and 2 MB selected
Prepare shows GENERAL with 2 MB selected before creating the new version.

Next steps

Related PDF Ready guides

FAQ

Common questions

Should I use GENERAL or CEAC for a 2 MB target?

Use CEAC when the upload is for CEAC/NVC. Use GENERAL for a normal exact 2 MB limit that is not tied to a portal profile.

What if IRCC allows 4 MB for my account?

Use the real IRCC path. If your account allows 4 MB, that extra room may preserve readability better than forcing 2 MB.

Should I turn off OCR to stay under 2 MB?

If searchable text is not required, leaving OCR off can make it easier to stay under a tight size limit.

Ready on Android

Prepare your PDF before upload

Install PDF Ready, prepare the document, review the result, and export the clean copy only when it is ready.

Install PDF Ready on Google Play

Note: PDF Ready prepares PDFs for upload workflows, but a destination can reject a PDF for reasons beyond file size.