How to tell if my pdf has XFA after opening it with Acrobat+convert it to Acroform

Report · Nov 19, 2020

Hello,

I have several pdf.s. We need to use them for an online electronical signature. Because these pdf.s have XFA elements in it or are themselves XFA, we have problems with them ( Node shuts down when trying to modify the pdfs with programs that don't support anything else but Acroforms).

So I have 2 big issues that I need to fix very urgent:

1) How can I tell if the pdf is XFA/ has XFA elements? ( I recieved the pdf from a third party) I tried online to find out how can I tell, but no real answear. Is there a certain mark/ code/ title/ anything that shows me when I open my pdf with Acrobat that my pdf includes XFA?

I can't make the developers test all the pdfs and see which one makes everything shut down. It should be a way to know it beforehand.

2) How can I convert the recieved pdf.s that have XFA elements or are XFA form to Acroform?

I am waiting for your reply, as it's pretty urgent.

Thank you in advance

Report · Nov 19, 2020

What can you see at File > Properties > Description ?

Report · Nov 19, 2020

Your problem may be urgent but your solution will not be quick.

1) There are internal structures in a PDF that a PDF API could find, such as the XFA key in the AcroForms dictionary. If that doesn't appeal, go with plan A, having people test the forms.

2) There is no converter to Acroform. If these could be converted, the problem would have disappeared years ago. XFA forms can do MANY things that an Acroform cannot do, such as dynamic layout, and have their own JavaScript. You must analyse the form in full detail, and make it again from the start, if it is even possible.

3) Consider that Adobe Experience Manager includes a live converter for XFAforms to live HTML5 forms. This is not a one-time process, but live for each form filler.