Retaining adobe pdf layers after exporting INDD file as pdf

Forum|Forum|10 months ago
April 16, 2025
1 reply
221 views

Hello,

I have multiple adobe pdf files that have layers. I am using InDesign to combine them into one INDD file to export it as one pdf. However, the layers of the adobe pdf files are not retained in the exported pdf file. Is there a way I can retain these adobe pdf file layers so that I can modify the layer values after I combine the pdfs into one file? also, is this possible using InDesign Server or any plugin/scripting?

(I cannot modify the adobe pdf file layer values before combining)

Thank you!

Dave Creamer of IDEAS

Community Expert

The layered PDFs are treated as a single graphic once in InDesign. They are not considered InDesign layers.

Why don't you just combine the PDFs in Acrobat Pro?

David Creamer: Community Expert (ACI and ACE 1995-2023)

K

kind123Author

Participant

Hi Dave, thanks for the reply.

I am also using Data Merge to create the pdf. The layered pdfs have to be placed in specific areas in the INDD file then exported as one pdf.

Dave Creamer of IDEAS

Community Expert

The latest InDesign beta can convert PDFs into InDesign files. Not sure if it keeps layer info however, since PDF layers are unique and not like InDesign or Illustrator layers. You will have to test. (Make sure you adjust your Creative Cloud app prefs to keep older versions before you install.)

David Creamer: Community Expert (ACI and ACE 1995-2023)

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