Should I mention my garden leave and current employment in my DTV application motivation letter?

Hey everyone,

I’m a German citizen currently preparing my DTV application at the Thai Consulate in Munich and would love to hear your thoughts or experiences.

* I’m still officially employed by a German company, but I’ve been laid off and will be on paid garden leave from Nov 1, 2025 to Feb 28, 2026.

* I already landed my first freelance gig (starting Oct 15, 2025), earning €1,600/month, with a written contract and confirmation that I can work remotely and from abroad. I have a German business registration (currently as side business until I switch to main business by March 2026).

* Financial evidence & document indicating current location are not an issue.

I am additionally planning to submit:

* Cover letter

* Screenshots of my website (with my services)

* Screenshots of my Upwork profile (with my services)

Question:

Should I mention my current employment and garden leave until Feb 2026 in my motivation letter?

* If I don't, I am worried because I can't yet provide proof if income as freelancer (as I will only issue my first freelancer invoice beginning of November)

* If I do, I’m worried it might raise questions or lead to requests for confirmation from my employer – which I probably can’t get.

Any opinion is appreciated. :)

Thanks