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Import layers of PDF in InDesign

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I want to import a PDF-file into InDesign including the layers of the imported PDF.

When I import it, only the file is imported but not the layers.

Import and export

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Bill SilbertCorrect answer

Community Expert

PDFs that were originally exported with layers from InDesign for Acrobat will still have their layers recognized when imported back into InDesign using the Object>Object Layers Option function. However, pdfs with layers exported from Photoshop have a different architecture to them and will not keep their layers when opened in InDesign. However, if you first open a layered .PSD in Illustrator and choose the "Convert Layers to Objects" option upon opening and then save the Illustrator file as an Adobe PDF you will find that when you import that pdf into InDesign the layers will appear in the Object Layers Options. You should know, though, that the Object Layers Options allows you to turn the layers off and on but does not provide any other editing of the layers.

Geоrge

Legend

ID still can't normally redact imported PDF's. Only can be placed.

Here the feature request about it. Give your voice here - https://indesign.uservoice.com/forums/601021-adobe-indesign-feature-requests/suggestions/30985276-convert-pdf-to-indd

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Remember, never say you can't do something in InDesign, it's always just a question of finding the right workaround to get the job done. © David Blatner

Bill Silbert

Correct answer

Community Expert

PDFs that were originally exported with layers from InDesign for Acrobat will still have their layers recognized when imported back into InDesign using the Object>Object Layers Option function. However, pdfs with layers exported from Photoshop have a different architecture to them and will not keep their layers when opened in InDesign. However, if you first open a layered .PSD in Illustrator and choose the "Convert Layers to Objects" option upon opening and then save the Illustrator file as an Adobe PDF you will find that when you import that pdf into InDesign the layers will appear in the Object Layers Options. You should know, though, that the Object Layers Options allows you to turn the layers off and on but does not provide any other editing of the layers.

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Diane Burns

Inspiring

To add to David's reply, you can also select layers when you Place the file. In the Place dialog, click "Image Import Options" or simply hold Shift as you click on the file to Place. You'll get the PDF import options; click the 2nd tab "Layers" and select the layers you want to import.

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Aloha15D5

Participant

I am not new, the layers are not on the 2 tab. Why?

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BobLevine

Community Expert

You've just replyed to a post that's almost two years old with practically no information. Please start a new discussion with full details of your issue.

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David Popham

Participating Frequently

Layers in placed PDFs are accessed by selecting the placed PDF and choosing Object>Object Layer Options. If the PDF has layers, you should be able to see them in the dialog. You may need to click the arrow to the left of the topmost item to display them. Are you not seeing any layers when doing so?

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maxrufAuthor

Participant

I'm seeing the layers but when the PDF is imported the layers won't appear in the document file.

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Geоrge

Legend

Yes, it is. That's how it works - PDF layers is only layers in PDF, not layers in the InDesign. You can only maipulate them

>> using the Object>Object Layers Option function

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Remember, never say you can't do something in InDesign, it's always just a question of finding the right workaround to get the job done. © David Blatner

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