Help

How it works

PDF Ready prepares your documents in a simple flow:

1. Import a PDF (from Files, Downloads, Drive, etc.).
2. Choose a portal/preset: GENERAL, CEAC, or IRCC.
3. Adjust options if needed (for example, OCR or PDF/A).
4. Tap “Generate PDF” and then export or share the result.

Note: your original PDF is not modified; PDF Ready creates an output copy with the selected settings.

Portals (presets)

Each portal typically has requirements (size, color, compatibility). PDF Ready applies settings designed to meet them, but portals can change rules; if a portal rejects a file, review the message and try other settings.

GENERAL

Flexible profile for most uploads.

• Color: flexible. We keep the original; if you need to reduce size, it can be converted to grayscale.
• OCR: optional. Adds a text layer to scanned documents.
• PDF/A: optional. Enable only if the destination requires it.

CEAC

Preset for CEAC uploads with stricter size and color requirements.

• Color: original color is preserved.
• OCR: optional. Useful if you want selectable/searchable text.
• PDF/A: optional. It can help in some compatibility cases.

IRCC

Preset aimed at meeting file/size requirements for IRCC workflows.

• Color: to help meet the maximum size, the app converts to grayscale automatically. There is currently no option to keep color in this portal.
• OCR (scans): recommended so text is selectable/searchable.
• PDF/A: if you enable PDF/A, it is generated as PDF/A-2b.

Limitations and special cases

If a file hits any of these, you will see warnings and suggestions:

Protected PDFs (password / permissions)

• If it opens without a password, try “Unlock” (no password) to remove restrictions.
• If it needs a password, enter it to process the file.

JavaScript or active content in PDFs

For safety, PDF Ready sanitizes/removes it when generating the result. Some interactivity may be lost.

Dynamic XFA forms

Dynamic XFA forms are not supported. Solution: export a flat PDF from the source or use “Print to PDF”.

Digital signatures

If the PDF has a digital signature, any change (compress, flatten, convert, etc.) can invalidate the signature. Keep the original if you need a signed file.

Final file size

• Final size depends on content (photos, scans, number of pages, etc.).
• The watermark adds some size.
• If you remove the watermark, the PDF is usually slightly smaller.

Watermark & purchases

• The free version exports with a visible watermark (diagonal).
• You can purchase the option to remove the watermark (via Google Play) and generate watermark-free copies.
• After generating a version, you will see the “Remove watermark” button.
• If you haven't purchased the option: it will take you to the purchase.
• If you already purchased it: you will get the watermark-free version.

Support

• Support: [email protected]
• Purchases & refunds: Google Play handles payments and refunds. If something fails (paid but PDF not generated, etc.), send us an issue report.

See also: Privacy · Terms

PDF vs PDF/A PDF/A-2b

Embedded quick guide (mobile-friendly & print-ready):

Prefer to open it? View HTML · Download PDF (9:16) PDF/A-2b