The clarification came after a new price list introduced on August 1 drew attention to a VND 500,000 (USD 19.13) charge for each camera or equivalent device used for commercial photography services.
Some visitors had questioned whether the fee would apply simply for bringing a personal camera into the popular tourist attraction.
Bui Huu Toan, director of Reunification Hall, which manages Independence Palace, told Dantri/DTiNews that the charge did not apply to tourists taking souvenir photos.
Visitors, families and groups of friends taking a few photos for personal use would not be affected, he said. The fee instead applies to those using the site for commercial photography services.
Toan said some photographers had entered with regular admission tickets before conducting photo shoots for clients, sometimes spending extended periods at popular spots and affecting other visitors.
Ordinary visitors typically stop briefly to take a few photos before moving on, while commercial photographers may spend longer at a location, shoot from multiple angles, direct clients' poses or carry out pre-planned photo sessions, he said.
The fee was not intended to increase revenue or profit, but to limit prolonged commercial photo shoots that could affect other visitors' experience, he highlighed.
Experienced security staff can identify potential commercial photography based on signs such as organised photo groups, planned shoots or the use of additional equipment, he added.
Under the new price list, the VND 500,000 fee applies to each camera or equivalent device used for commercial photography services.
The permit covers both the outdoor grounds and interior of Independence Palace and is valid until 6 pm on the day of purchase.
An outdoor photo-shoot package costs VND 1.5 million (USD 59) for groups of up to eight people, including photographers and those being photographed. A package covering both indoor and outdoor areas costs VND 3 million (USD 117) for a group of up to eight.
A monthly outdoor photography pass costs VND 10 million (USD 391) for groups of up to eight people. It is valid for 30 days from the date of purchase and can be used up to 10 times.
Schools, businesses and groups organising collective photo shoots, as well as those producing commercial content such as music videos, advertisements or fashion shoots, must contact the management directly for guidance.
Photographers and those being photographed must dress appropriately and avoid poses considered unsuitable for the historic site. Setting up scenes and using drones are also prohibited.
Located at 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street in central Ho Chi Minh City, Independence Palace is a special national relic and one of the city's major historic attractions.
The palace is open daily from 7 am to 6 pm Its distinctive architecture, spacious grounds and numerous photo spots have also made it a popular place for residents and tourists to take souvenir photos, particularly during holidays and festivals.