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PUB CDR
Not possible

Convert PUB to CDR

Can you convert PUB to CDR?
Verified by Adam B.· reviewed by FE Editorial ·updated Jun 23, 2026
QUICK ANSWER
Is it possible to convert PUB to CDR?
No - not a direct conversion.

Export the .pub to PDF in Publisher or LibreOffice Draw, then open that PDF in CorelDRAW. The PDF path gives editable vector objects; text may import as curves depending on how Publisher embedded the fonts.

No direct path
Also to CDR: WMF · PLT · IMAGE

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Tested on macOS, Windows & Linux
Last verified Oct 2026

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Why convert PUB to CDR?

Both PUB and CDR are closed proprietary binary formats with no published write specifications. PUB uses an OLE2 container with only partial public documentation; CDR is a format only CorelDRAW can write, and its structure changes between versions. There is no tool that can reliably read PUB content and produce a valid CDR file.

How to convert PUB to CDR

CorelDraw Graphics Suite APP

Export the .pub to PDF in Microsoft Publisher (File > Export > Create PDF/XPS), then open that PDF in CorelDRAW; vector objects remain editable, though text may import as curves.

CorelDraw Graphics Suite APP

Without Publisher, open the .pub in LibreOffice Draw (free) and export to PDF, then bring that PDF into CorelDRAW as a layout reference; LibreOffice fidelity is partial.

Programs that convert PUB

CorelDraw Graphics Suite

About these formats

.PUB Microsoft Publisher Document

A PUB file is a Microsoft Publisher document - a fixed print-layout file for flyers, newsletters, brochures, and cards. If you have Publisher (Office 2021 or older Microsoft 365), open it…

Open .PUB details →
.CDR CorelDRAW image / drawing

A CDR file is a vector drawing created by CorelDRAW (Corel Corporation), used for logos, posters, signage and print artwork since 1989. CorelDRAW is the only application that opens every…

Open .CDR details →

Quality & what to watch

  • No tool can write CDR files except CorelDRAW itself; any converter claiming to produce CDR from PUB will fail or produce a corrupt file.
  • PUB is a multi-page print layout while CDR is a vector illustration format - even with both specs open, a clean automated mapping would not be straightforward.
  • Microsoft Publisher support ends October 2026; export .pub files to PDF now while access to the application is still available.

Frequently asked questions

Can CorelDRAW open a PUB file directly?
No - CorelDRAW has no PUB import filter; convert the .pub to PDF first, then open that PDF in CorelDRAW.
Is there any online converter for PUB to CDR?
No - CDR cannot be written without CorelDRAW regardless of the source format; any site listing PUB-to-CDR will not produce a usable file.
Will text be editable after placing a PUB PDF into CorelDRAW?
It depends on how Publisher embedded the fonts - text may import as outlines or curves rather than editable characters.
What if I no longer have Publisher?
Open the .pub in LibreOffice Draw (free), export to PDF, and bring that PDF into CorelDRAW; fidelity depends on how accurately LibreOffice renders the original layout.