An optical polarization controller apparatus and associated method that controls a first temporal separation between a first polarization and a second polarization of an output optical signal, wherein a second temporal separation exists between a first polarization and a second polarization of an input optical signal. The optical polarization controller comprises a controller, a polarization separation device, and a delay element. The controller determines the first temporal separation. The controller compares the first temporal separation with the second temporal separation. The polarization separation device transmits the first polarization of the output optical signal along a first path and transmits the second polarization of the output optical signal along a second path. The delay element delays the first polarization of the output optical signal relative to the second polarization of the output optical signal whereby a duration of the first temporal separation becomes closer to a duration of the second temporal separation. The delay element further comprising a gate electrode and a voltage source. The gate electrode has a prescribed electrode shape positioned proximate the waveguide. The voltage source is connected to the gate electrode for applying voltage to the gate electrode, wherein the voltage causes the gate electrode to project into the waveguide the region of changeable propagation constant, said region of changeable propagation constant corresponding generally in shape to the prescribed electrode shape. The controller controls the propagation constant level of the region of changeable propagation constant by varying the voltage applied to the gate electrode wherein changing the propagation constant level of the region of changeable propagation constant changes a duration that the first polarization of the output optical signal is delayed within the region of changeable propagation constant.