I've created a pass.json file that will sign and open flawlessly as long as I omit the NFC dictionary. On my device, I've enabled the developer setting "NFC Pass Key Optional" which I initially thought would allow me to bypass NFC Certificate verification and allow for me to test the unencrypted data. Upon attempting to open the certificate with an NFC dictionary included, I get an error stating there was an issue with the wallet file I should open the pkpass file in files.
Upon reviewing the console, I was able to find the following error from com.apple.passkit - "Passes with an NFC dictionary or a Personalization JSON file must be signed with an enhanced Passbook certificate."
Are my initial thoughts incorrect and regardless of the developer option you are required to have the enhanced NFC Passbook certificate to open an NFC pkpass or is there a setting that I'm missing?