How to open .pub files now that Publisher is gone

Microsoft removed Publisher from Microsoft 365 in October 2026. If you had Publisher through a subscription, your .pub files no longer open. Here are your options.

1. If you still have an old bought copy of Publisher

Publisher 2016, 2019 and 2021 bought as a one-time purchase still work. Open each file and use File, Save As and pick PDF. This keeps the layout exactly. It is slow if you have many files.

2. Free: LibreOffice Draw

LibreOffice is a free office suite for Windows, Mac and Linux. Its Draw app can open most .pub files.

Install LibreOffice from libreoffice.org.
Open LibreOffice, choose Open File and pick your .pub file.
Use File, Export as PDF to save a copy.

Fonts that are not on your computer get swapped for a plain font, so check the result. You convert one file at a time.

3. Convert them here

Upload one file or a whole folder. You get a PDF, an editable PowerPoint that works in Canva and Google Slides, a Word file, and page images. We swap missing fonts for close free look-alikes and tell you which ones. You see a free preview of every file before paying.

Want it done for you? Upload your .pub files and get a PDF, an editable file for Canva, PowerPoint and Google Slides, and a Word file. Free preview before you pay.

Convert my files

On a Mac

Publisher never ran on a Mac. Use LibreOffice, or upload your files here from any web browser.

Which format should I pick?

PDF if you only need to view, print or share the file.
Canva or Google Slides if you want to keep editing flyers, newsletters and bulletins. See Publisher to Canva.
Word if you mostly need the text. See Publisher to Word.