How to add a watermark to a PDF
- Select your PDF or drop it onto the page.
- Choose a text watermark and type it, or choose an image watermark and pick your logo.
- Adjust the size, opacity, rotation and position, and choose which pages to watermark.
- Apply the watermark and download the PDF.
Text or image watermark?
A text watermark such as DRAFT, CONFIDENTIAL, SAMPLE or COPY communicates the status of a document at a glance; a large diagonal stamp at low opacity is the classic look. An image watermark uses your logo or seal to brand proposals, portfolios or certificates. Transparent PNG logos give the cleanest result.
You can add a watermark to every page or only to selected pages, so a cover page can stay clean.
Getting the balance right
A watermark should be visible without making the document hard to read. Opacity between 15% and 30% usually works for diagonal text across the page; corner logos can be stronger because they cover less content. Check both light and dark pages, and remember that printers often make faint marks even fainter.
How permanent is a watermark?
The watermark is written into each page's content, so it cannot be switched off in a PDF reader the way a comment can. It is a deterrent, not a lock: someone with professional editing software could still remove or cover it. For stronger protection, combine it with restricted permissions or an open password from Protect PDF. To watermark photos instead of documents, use Watermark Image.
All processing happens in your browser; your document and logo are never uploaded.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my company logo as a watermark?
Yes. Choose the image option and select a JPG, PNG or WebP file. A PNG with a transparent background looks best.
Will the watermark hide the text underneath?
Not if you use a low opacity. The watermark is semi-transparent so the content stays readable.
Can a watermark be removed?
It is part of the page content and cannot simply be hidden, but determined users with editing software may be able to remove it. Treat it as a visible label rather than security.
Can I watermark only some pages?
Yes. Choose the pages to stamp, for example everything except the cover.
Is my file uploaded?
No. Watermarking runs in your browser and the file stays on your device.