PDF/A-2bWhen requested

Use PDF/A-2b when the destination asks for it

PDF Ready can prepare PDF/A-2b when a portal, reviewer, or workflow asks for that format. PDF/A-2b can affect size, so review warnings, page readability, and final file size before clean export.

Prepare PDF/A-2b in PDF Ready Back to features

In the app

Turn on PDF/A-2b from More options

In the Prepare screen, choose GENERAL, IRCC, or CEAC and the size limit first. Just below the size selector, expand More options and turn on Try PDF/A-2b when the portal or reviewer asks for that format.

PDF/A-2b is in More options, below the size selector.

What this helps with

Prepare the requested PDF/A-2b format

Use PDF/A-2b when the destination workflow, reviewer, or instructions ask for it. The feature helps align the output with that format request before you export the clean copy.

Workflow

How it fits the PDF Ready workflow

Start from the source PDF, choose the preparation path that matches the destination, and apply PDF/A-2b when that format is part of the requirement. Then review the prepared file before export.

Review

What to review before export

Check page count, final size, warnings, and readability. PDF/A-2b may change the file structure and can increase size, so use exact size targets again if the destination also gives a size limit.

Requirement handling

How PDF Ready handles PDF/A-2b requests

PDF Ready prepares the file for PDF/A-2b when that option matches the destination instructions. It also lets you review related checks such as size, pages, restrictions, active content, readability, and OCR when needed. If the portal gives an error the app can help resolve, you can adjust and generate another clean copy.

Practical limit

PDF/A-2b does not solve every upload problem

Use PDF/A-2b for workflows that ask for it. A destination may still reject a file for size, missing pages, unreadable scans, form requirements, or other checks outside the format choice.

Related features

What to use with PDF/A-2b

Use Exact size targets if PDF/A-2b changes file size. Use Review before export before creating the clean copy. More context: PDF/A-2b guide and private PDF prep without upload.