what application can I convert Publisher file

Lionese Robinson 20 Reputation points
2026-04-06T19:58:11.4733333+00:00

I understand that Publisher will no longer be supported but what is a application I will be able to convert my many Publisher files?

Microsoft 365 and Office | Publisher | For business

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  1. AI answer

    2026-04-06T19:58:24.29+00:00

    To convert existing Microsoft Publisher (.pub) files, use these options while Publisher is still available:

    1. Use Microsoft Publisher itself (recommended while supported)
      • Open the .pub file in Publisher.
      • Select File > Save As.
      • Choose a location.
      • In Save as type, select PDF (or XPS) and select Save.
        This lets the publication be viewed and shared even after Publisher is retired.
    2. Bulk conversion with PowerShell script
      For many files, use the sample PowerShell script provided for Publisher retirement:
      • Ensure a working, licensed version of Publisher is installed.
      • Download the sample script Convert-PubFileToPDF.ps1.
      • Open PowerShell with appropriate execution policies.
      • Run it against files or folders, for example:
        • Convert-PubFileToPDF.ps1 -Filter "C:\Documents\MyFile.pub"
        • Convert-PubFileToPDF.ps1 -Filter "*.pub"
        • Convert-PubFileToPDF.ps1 -Filter "*.pub" -Recurse
          The script converts .pub files to PDF (or other export formats if adjusted).
    3. Convert for editing in Word
      If future editing is needed:
      • First convert the Publisher file to PDF (using steps above).
      • Then in Word:
        • Open Word.
        • Go to File > Open and select the PDF.
        • Confirm the prompt to convert to an editable Word document.
          Note: Layout may change, especially with many graphics.
    4. Third-party conversion tools
      Third-party tools can convert directly from Publisher to other formats, but quality and capabilities vary and are not supported by Microsoft.

    For long-term access, convert all needed .pub files to PDF (for viewing) and, where necessary, to Word or other formats for editing before October 1, 2026.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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  2. WordWizzard 1,235 Reputation points
    2026-04-06T22:12:08.05+00:00

    If you're asking what application you can use to edit your publisher files, there are two options that come to mind. Both applications are free:

    LibreOffice Draw will open your publisher files directly, but editing them may not always be as precise as you may like.

    https://www.libreoffice.org/discover/draw/

    I recommend Affinity Layout. But you first have to convert your publisher file to PDF.
    https://www.affinity.studio/page-layout-software

    https://www.affinity.studio/help/get-started-import-pdf/

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  3. Alina Le 5,805 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-04-07T08:08:14.85+00:00

    Hello @Lionese Robinson

    If you're looking for a replacement for Microsoft Publisher, this article has some recommendations.

    User's image

    For your reference: Microsoft Publisher will no longer be supported after October 2026 - Microsoft Support

    If you encounter any difficulties during the transition or have specific needs that require support to ensure a smooth process, please let me know.

    Wishing you all the best!

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