What does flatten mean?

Flattening a PDF means burning interactive elements (forms, comments, layers) permanently into the page content. The result looks identical but can no longer be edited.

Can I unflatten a PDF?

No. Flattening is irreversible. Always keep a backup of your original file if you need the interactive elements later.

Does flatten reduce file size?

Usually yes, slightly. Removing interactive form fields and annotation objects reduces overhead. The exact reduction depends on how many interactive elements the PDF contains.

Will my signatures stay visible?

Yes. Visual signatures are burned into the page image. However, digital certificate signatures will no longer be cryptographically verifiable after flattening.

Flatten PDF

Lock layers and forms into the page

Lock forms, annotations and layers permanently into the page

Auto-deletion after 35 minEU servers

Privacy

Privacy by design

Processed on EU servers. Files are automatically deleted within 35 minutes. No tracking, no analysis.

GDPREU serversSSL/TLS

Secure server

HTTPS upload, auto-deletion

No install

Runs in your browser

GDPR compliant

EU servers, 35 min auto-deletion

100% free

No account, no subscription

01

Upload your PDF

Select the PDF you want to flatten. Forms, annotations, and layers will be detected automatically.

02

Choose what to flatten

Select which elements to flatten: form fields, comments & annotations, and/or layers (OCGs). All are enabled by default.

03

Flatten and download

Click "Flatten PDF". The result is a locked PDF that nobody can edit - perfect for sharing or archiving.

Compress PDF

Reduce PDF file size while maintaining quality

PDF/A Converter

Convert to archive-safe PDF/A format