What happens to a classified document when it is declassified?

When a classified document is declassified, it loses its classified status and can be accessed without the need for an appropriate security clearance. This process allows information that was once deemed sensitive or confidential to become available to the public or to individuals who do not hold security clearances. This change in status occurs when the classification no longer applies due to factors such as the age of the information, changes in national security considerations, or the completion of a specific time period for which the information was classified.

While archiving a declassified document can happen, it does not directly relate to the fundamental change in status. Immediate destruction of the document is contrary to the purpose of declassification, which is to make information available, not eliminate it. The suggestion that it remains under restricted access is also inaccurate, as declassification means it is accessible without restrictions inherent to classified materials.