Many receive a .p7m file and need a simple PDF to read, print or send. However, the .p7m is not a PDF: it is a digitally signed document enclosed in an envelope. Let's see how to convert a .p7m file to PDF in a simple and free way.
What does it mean to convert a .p7m to PDF
A .p7m file contains an original document (often a PDF or XML invoice) plus the digital signature. "Converting to PDF" basically means extracting the document from the signed envelope and obtaining it in readable PDF format.
There are two cases:
- There is already a PDF inside the .p7m → just extract it and you immediately have your PDF.
- Inside there is an XML (e.g. electronic invoice) → it must first be made readable and then saved as a PDF.
How to convert a .p7m to PDF online
With P7M Viewer just a few steps are enough:
1. Open the Open .p7m tool.
2. Upload the .p7m file.
3. If the content is a PDF, download it directly: it's already your PDF.
4. If it is an XML invoice, it is shown in readable form.
Everything in the browser, without installing software or updating Java.
How to save a .p7m invoice in PDF (XML)
If the .p7m contains an electronic invoice in XML:
1. Open it with P7M Viewer: you will see it in the form of a readable invoice.
2. Use your browser's Print function (Ctrl+P on PC, ⌘+P on Mac).
3. Choose "Save as PDF" as printer.
4. Get a tidy PDF with amounts, VAT and total.
Convert a .p7m to PDF from your phone
With the free P7M Viewer app for Android, open the .p7m file and save it or share it as a PDF from the share menu. On iPhone use the site from Safari and the "Print → Save as PDF" function.
Error to avoid
Don't rename the file from .p7m to .pdf: it doesn't work and you risk corrupting it. The signature envelope remains in place: the document must always be extracted with a suitable tool.
Frequently asked questions
Can I convert a .p7m to PDF for free? Yes, opening and extracting the document from a single file is free.
Do I need a program? No, it works in the browser; on Android there is also a free app.
If there's a PDF inside, what do I get? Exactly that PDF, ready to save or print.
In summary
To convert a .p7m file to PDF, open it with P7M Viewer and extract the document: if it is already a PDF you download it immediately, if it is an XML invoice you save it as a PDF with "Print → Save as PDF". Free and in seconds.
