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Edit XFA forms
Last updated on
Apr 2, 2024
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Issue
If you try to edit the PDF in Acrobat, you get the following error: This XFA form cannot be edited using Adobe Acrobat
The XFA forms created in LiveCycle Designer are interactive and dynamic in nature. Adobe recommends editing such PDF forms in their authoring application to retain the form fields and interactive objects.
Some forms do not allow you to add annotations in Acrobat and you see the following message:
Caution:
If you edit an XFA form in Acrobat using a workaround, the resultant PDF or form will be flattened and lose all form fields, layers, interactive objects, buttons, and any JavaScripts used in the form.
Steps to troubleshoot
Step 1: Save the form as Encapsulated PostScript file
Saving the XFA form as .eps (Encapsulated PostScript) file flattens the file and removes layers, form fields, and other interactive objects in the file.
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Open the PDF in Acrobat.
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Go to
> Save As and select the folder location to save the file. -
In the Save as type dropdown menu, select Encapsulated PostScript and then select Save.
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Open the saved .eps file in Acrobat. You can now edit the file.
Step 2: Print the form to Adobe PDF printer
Printing the XFA form to Adobe PDF printer flattens the file and removes layers, form fields, and other interactive objects in the file.
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Open the PDF form in Acrobat.
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From the top toolbar, select
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In the Print dialog box, select Adobe PDF as the printer and then select Print.
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Type a name for your file and then select Save.
It creates the PDF and opens it in Acrobat. You can now edit the PDF.
Note: For information on how to add form fields in a PDF, refer to Create a form from an existing document.