application/*
application/pdf
File extensions: .pdf
Portable Document Format — cross-platform fixed-layout documents.
What is application/pdf?
application/pdf is Adobe's Portable Document Format — a fixed-layout document format that renders identically on any device with a PDF reader. It carries text, fonts, vector graphics, images, and interactive form fields in a single self-contained file.
Typical usage
Invoices, receipts, government forms, e-books, print-ready documents, contract signing.
Common gotchas
Setting Content-Disposition: inline vs attachment controls whether the browser previews the PDF or triggers a download. inline is the default.
HTTP header example
Response header
Content-Type: application/pdf; charset=utf-8Reference
ISO 32000-2
Frequently asked questions
What is the application/pdf MIME type?
application/pdf is Adobe's Portable Document Format — a fixed-layout document format that renders identically on any device with a PDF reader. It carries text, fonts, vector graphics, images, and interactive form fields in a single self-contained file.
What file extension does application/pdf use?
Files served as application/pdf typically use the extension .pdf. The most common is .pdf.
How do I set the Content-Type for application/pdf?
Send the HTTP response header Content-Type: application/pdf; charset=utf-8. Invoices, receipts, government forms, e-books, print-ready documents, contract signing.
Is application/pdf an official MIME type?
Yes. application/pdf is officially registered with IANA (ISO 32000-2), so standards-conformant clients recognize it.
What are common mistakes with application/pdf?
Setting Content-Disposition: inline vs attachment controls whether the browser previews the PDF or triggers a download. inline is the default.