I found this on reddit and, apparently, people who start up the launcher right now and haven't registered for early access are getting messages after less than a minute of waiting and one of the lines says:

"Users participating in early access must also complete registration by August 30,2013. Using the code enclosed with your package, please complete registration through the FINAL FANTASY XIV: Mog Station."


(The info in the white box was added by the poster)

Info found here: http://www.reddit.com/r/ffxiv/commen...tion_works_pc/